Wednesday, January 28, 2009
Arbella February Newsletter 2009
First Parish of Watertown
Arbella
February 2009
for events please go to the member page for the calendar
Sermons and Worship Services
Sunday, February 1, 2009 11:00 a.m.
“Risk Aversion” Mark W. Harris
A recent Parade Magazine headline story was “How to Survive the Worst.” While Parade hardly reflects my own philosophy, it does give us insight into popular culture. There is a prevalent fear of disasters, and the Miracle on the Hudson will probably exacerbate that. Should we be so scared all the time?
Greeters: Anne Harrington, Mike Schade
Social Hour: Kathy Button, Paul Montesino
Sunday, February 8 , 2009 11:00 a.m.
“If We Come From Apes, How Come Apes Are Still Around? Darwin at 200” Mark W. Harris
I saw this sign at a Building 19 (the kind of place that sells salvaged goods, etc.) the other day. On February 12 both Charles Darwin and Abraham Lincoln celebrate 200th birthdays. How has Darwin influenced liberal religion?
FPW Choir sings; Story for all Ages
Greeters: Nancy Dutton and David Benson
Social Hour: Ken Repp & Chris Johnson
Sunday, February 15 , 2009 11:00 a.m.
Anniversary Sunday - “Rebels With a Cause” Mark W. Harris
In February First Parish marks its anniversary of becoming a Unitarian church (pre merger with the Universalists). This has often been a history Sunday for us. Today we will look at our heritage of going against the grain, even from the beginning in 1630. Are you antiauthority, and why?
Greeters: Jan Klein and Bobbie Brown
Social Hour: Tesi Kohlenberg & Tom Goodwillie
Sunday, February 22 , 2009 11:00 a.m.
Intergenerational Service- Heifer Project
This service will feature a special skit by our church school children. They are devoting the entire month of February to a special unit on the Heifer Project. Our charitable offering in February will also benefit Heifer. There will be a story, and some special fun music with Charlyn and Guy.
Greeters: Charmian Proskauer, Beth Parsons
Social Hour: Norah Mulvaney & Paul Day
Captain’s Log
There are two significant anniversaries this month on the same day. The birth days are February 12, and the individuals are Charles Darwin and Abraham Lincoln, both born two hundred years ago in 1809. Darwin had Unitarian connections, but was not one of us. His grandfather Erasmus Darwin was a Unitarian and part of the famous Lunar Society, which included Joseph Priestley, who discovered oxygen and was one of the founders of the Unitarian movement in England, and Josiah Wedgwood, the famous potter. Charles’ father and Erasmus son felt as though there was more social and religious clout if he became an Anglican. Not, wanting to be an outcast as a Unitarian, Charles’ father converted, and pressured Charles at one time to become a priest. But it was Charles’ voyage on the ship Beagle that gave us a scientific gift, The Origin of Species, that challenged all religious faiths. Religious groups have wrestled with evolution ever since. Unitarians and Universalists were among the first to embrace Darwin’s views, but it was not immediate, as the ideas revolutionized the way in which humanity conceived of creation and the development of the human species, and of course it challenged the Bible, too. The hierarchy of heaven began to fall thanks to Darwin. Unitarians and Universalist have always embraced scientific approaches to faith in our search for truth. I will preach about Darwin on
February 8.
We have already heard a great deal about Lincoln and his wholesale emulation and admiration by President Obama from words, to philosophy (Team of Rivals) even down to an historic train trip and the inaugural Bible (Judge Roberts better practice a little next time). Lincoln, the great liberator and savior of the union is a tough act to emulate. Lincoln’s religion is also tough to pinpoint. He attended some Universalist services, and he rejected the idea of hell, and also believed in providence and destiny. But he never had any denominational affiliation of any kind. We know his faith was deep, but it did not pass the test of orthodoxy. He objected to ceremonies and forms too much. He was influenced by the Unitarian preacher Theodore Parker who inspired him with a variation on the phrase “ government of the people, by the people, and for the people.”
Obama has UU connections, too. I had read in the paper that Obama’s grandmother’s memorial service was held in the UU Church in Honolulu, but had not seen any details until our former intern Sue Kingman sent along her church newsletter where she quoted the Honolulu minister Mike Young at length. It seems than many years ago Obama’s grandmother had brought him through the doors of her UU church, and he attended there some. Now in death, he returned there to uphold and declare his family’s gratitude for her life, and what she had given to them. There was much secretiveness about where the service would be held, and high level security at the church in the days prior to the service.
When I was a boy I was always concerned that Washington’s Birthday was a holiday, but Lincoln’s was not. My brother especially lobbied for this at home, since February 12 was his birthday, too, and he wanted a special holiday. Despite my brother, the little historian in me believed our greatest president deserved this celebration as much as the initial holder of the office. With President’s Day we have recognized both, but in other ways have lost the distinctiveness of the two days. In school I learned lots of heroic myths about both of them such as walking miles to return a book, and the infamous cherry tree and the refusal to lie. They were stories that made me patriotic in my own way, even as this love for our country and its history was challenged with the Vietnam War and racial strife. It is exciting and inspiring when it feels like our country is trying to live up to its founding and guiding principles.
Darwin loomed large in my brother’s studies, as he became a biologist. Unfortunately, a family squabble over my father’s will led to his rejection of the entire family, including me. I have tried a couple of times over the years to settle this. One of our members shared a story about reconciliation with his sister in joys and sorrows. It inspired me to think that perhaps it is time for me to try again. Darwin's ideas form the basis for most biological thinking today. But on a human level his ideas also reminds us of how short our time is, and how much we need one another. Anniversaries of famous figures remind us of how important people were in the development of history, and birthdays reminds us of those who we once spoke to every day, and now perhaps, don’t speak to at all. As this birthday approaches, it would be good to end, at least a little, some of this winter of discontent. Happy Birthday to Charles and Abraham, and, to my brother, too, wherever he is.
Mark
Among Us
Our Deepest Sympathy to Chuck Dickinson, at the death of his mother. He and Lynn recently atttended a memorial in California.
Healing thoughts to Paul Day, who fell on the ice and suffered a badly broken leg. This necessitated the postponing of Comedy Night for now.
Helen Wait, a long term member of First Parish, died on January 12, 2009. There will be a memorial service at FPW on Feb. 28. If you wish to send a card, expressions of condolence can go to her daughter who lives in Sudbury. Her daughter is:
Cathy Manwaring
46 Massasoit Ave.
Sudbury, MA 01776
Congratulations to Missy and Bob Shay who became grandparents again. Bella Korinne Shay was born on January 17, 2009. Mother and daughter are home and Keith and Kymani are enjoying having them there.
New members -
A warm welcome to new members who were voted in by the Parish Committee:
Victoria Grafflin-Conway, Michael Conway and Connie Wilson.
Religious Education
Faith, Hope and Clarity…
Can you believe it? Can you believe that it has been six months since I began my journey here with you all at First Parish as your new DRE. Beginning in a position as a first time DRE is a bit like going out on a blind date. It begins with cautious interest, not quite certain what to expect, a bit shy at first then we extend the sweaty palms of fellowship take a deep breath and begin. For me the first few months have been a whirlwind of getting to know the individuals who are First Parish Watertown, a work in progress I might add. I am impressed with those who I have gotten to know and grateful to have so many gracious and dedicated people with whom to collaborate on the work of religious education. I have faith, faith that if I put forth my best efforts that others will do so as well. With faith, together we can continue to grow and to find meaningful ways in which to better understand and connect with our own and with our children’s spiritual lives.
So now, well under way I am bursting with hope. I hope that I will be able to encourage and support those who already give their time and talents to RE as well as to those individuals who are uncertain about where and how they might support the RE work of this community. I for one am riding the current of hope - hope, which has so recently invigorated and charged our entire nation. The call to volunteerism is not just a slogan for the media it is a vaccine for entropy, a cure for ennui. Here at First Parish we are so fortunate for there is an opportunity to volunteer every week! Every week at First Parish we need people willing to try, to take that leap of faith and help out in an RE classroom or program. Ah, that old soapbox of mine!
I have been at First Parish long enough to have made my first mistakes - the pathway of learning and growth! From these first miss-steps I have gained some clarity. I know that communication is vital, and now I am aware that some of the most important work which I can do to support this community is to provide clarity; to communicate in a regular and consistent way. I currently update the RE portion of the First Parish Web Page weekly, this is a good place to begin to look for information.. I check my First Parish email account (drewatertown@yahoo.com) daily, but often do not immediately reply to messages. I will always reply to messages on Monday evening, Wednesday morning, Friday during the day, and Saturday during the day. If you are expecting an email reply these would be the times to look. I can be reached at my home phone number, (781) 863-1319, but I am often not at home. Please leave a message and I will return your call as soon as I am able. I am not available at First Parish during the week.
Important update: Karen Allendoerfer and Kelly Morton have both stepped down as co-chairs of the RE committee. I thank Karen and Kelly for their work during a challenging time of transition. Both Karen and Kelly will continue on the RE committee. Tom Goodwillie has agreed to step up to chair the committee. Thank you Tom for your generosity and compassion.
Coming up in February! The Heifer Project International: February 1 -22nd
I am excited to report that the children and youth of First Parish will begin a four week social action term on Sunday, February 1st. We will be learning about the work of The Heifer Project International. During structured workshop time, the children and youth will be making various items which they will sell at fellowship hour on February 22nd to help to raise funds for the Heifer Project. The offering on February 22nd will be donated to Heifer International as well. Then on Friday, March 27th come join together as the Youth Group presents a dinner to raise funds on behalf of Heifer International. Please come on down and check out what we are doing!
In faith, hope and clarity!
Namaste (The Divinity within me perceives and adores the Divinity within you)
Debra Zagaeski (DRE)
Musically Speaking……
by Charlyn Bethell
One thing that unites us at First Parish is our singing hymns at a church service. Even people who choose not to sing enjoy and benefit from the singing of hymns. Some churches have organ or electric keyboard accompaniment with or without drums and bass. Some people move to the music by clapping and swaying to the beats.
I have been reading articles about congregational singing. I am learning about the different ways that congregations sing at a church service. Traditionally, we stand and read the words and music together in a song we might remember singing some other time. For some of us, singing hymns in a church service is the only time in the week that we sing. Singing hymns in at church can be an experience that can leave us feeling spiritually whole. Church services would not be complete without hymn singing. We love singing hymns. My father grew up with traditional Baptist hymns that he loved and I often fell asleep to the sound of him playing those treasured tunes by ear on his little chord organ.
Our songs define us. The melodies and words meld together to create moments of beauty that enhance our lives. I have been discovering how much our minister loves our hymns. I did not know that he carefully keeps track of how many times we sing each hymn! Sometimes, as we discuss coming church services, he can’t contain himself and breaks into song! As the great Hungarian composer, Zoltan Kodaly, has said, “Rhythm develops attention, concentration, determination and the ability to condition oneself. Melody opens up the world of emotions. Dynamic variation and tone color sharpen our hearing. Singing, finally, is such a many-sided physical activity that its effect is immeasurable—if there is perhaps anyone to whom the spirit does not matter.”
I notice that some people in our congregation sing harmony in the hymns as we sing them on Sunday. I have heard it said that people who sit close to such singers really enjoy being next to them. Some people start singing some songs spontaneously in canon. Last week, people who were so moved, started clapping with a song. I applaud people who lose themselves in a song and need to move or clap as the spirit moves them. I love the confidence and exuberance they radiate.
I am hoping that we keep reaching out for diversity in our shared singing. Those who know the words to the chorus of a song might try putting their hymnal aside and move or clap to the song. Of course, we will need to know the song very well to do that. Maybe we should have occasional weeks that we sing through the hymns prior to the service. Perhaps we find out which are our favorite hymns and sing them all at a special service. We might need some more services with percussion instruments available to us to use to accompany our common singing. However YOU are comfortable singing, let us continue to do that but also give permission to others to go beyond the usual.
Please let me hear from you about how we can all be involved even more in our singing hymns together at church. We sing for the songs and for the singing and for our spirits, individually and collectively. Let us be ready to let it all hang out as we come together with our songs and our singing.
Serving a Meal to the Needy
On Friday evening, February 27, First Parish has committed to serving dinner to the needy at the Arlington Street Church on Boston. The program is run by the Friday Night Supper Program, and has been in place since 1984. Dinner is from 5:00 – 7:00 p.m., and volunteers are needed. The Coming of Age group will be participating, but we need many adult volunteers as well. If you are able to help, contact Mark Harris.
The mission of the Friday Night Supper Program is to provide a warm nutritious meal to anyone in need in a safe and dignified environment every Friday night. Approximately 150 people attend. The guests come from different backgrounds and may include those coping with AIDS, mental illness, or substance abuse; the elderly; the disabled; abused women; homeless individuals; and those who are jobless, minimally employed, or living below the poverty level. All who come are served, no questions asked. The program prides itself on providing not only nourishment for the body thorough food but also nourishment for the soul through dignity and respect. For more information, visit their website at www.fridaynightsupper.org.
Request from Finance Committee
If you made a pledge for the 2008 – 2009 fiscal year, you are probably receiving a letter from First Parish this week thanking you and telling you how much is left on your pledge. This time of year is a bit of a juggling feat for FPW. Our fiscal year ends on 3/31 and we’d like to have an excellent idea of how we are going to end the year by 3/1. If you can complete your pledge payment by 2/28, that is a significant help to us in our budget planning for next year.
2009 Canvass Kick-Off: “Yes! U Can!”
For some, it has seemed this year that each day has brought news of some new down-turn – in the world economy, in the US image abroad, in our citizens’ ability to lead quality lives… Many in our community have been affected by illness and lay-offs. Some days, cheeriness has been in short supply.
But then, we had Sundays with Joys and Sorrows… We have had a church community that has held us up. In December’s sharing of faith, Celeste Oliva described the community of First Parish. She spoke movingly of selflessness and giving in times of others’ stress, of the goodness of others’ hearts that makes her grateful to be a part of this community.
The Canvass for 2009 – 2010 is borrowing an oft-used phrase from the summer and fall. “Yes! U Can!” rejoices in the themes of sustainability, nurturing and hope that we share as a spiritual community. We can give to one another. We can hold each other up. We can keep our church strong and continue to build it through times of strife and gladness so generations to come can experience the same coming together for love, sharing and support. We minister to one another every time we listen… every time we open our hearts. These actions change the world.
The “Yes! U Can” canvass is for all friends and members of First Parish to help in the ongoing life of the church for the fiscal year 2009 – 2010. Stay tuned to the “Arbella”, your email, church announcements, your phone for more information on how you can be involved! If you have any questions, please feel free to contact any member of the Finance Committee: Michael Collins, Paul Dansereau, Carole Katz, John Portz, Bob Shay, or Beth Tappan-deFrees.
Let the 2009 Canvass begin !
It is time again to turn our attention to the need to support and sustain First Parish as an active, thriving community through our commitment of financial resources. Canvass also provides an occasion for us all to consider what First Parish means to each of us, what our goals should be going forward, and how best to achieve them.
Here is the basic schedule:
1 February Information
An informal session with Finance Committee members after church (more can be scheduled if needed)
1 March Canvass Sunday
Mark Harris will help U feel optimistic
8 March Canvass Skit Sunday
Paul Day will be back on his feet (!)
4 – 14 March Canvass Dinners
See details below
4 April Annual Dinner & Show
See details below
26 April Annual Meeting 12:30; lunch will be served;
meeting details to follow
Canvass Dinners
Each year during canvass season, we hold a series of Canvass potluck dinners hosted by various members at their homes (and 2 at the church social hall), where you can enjoy each other’s company, share your experiences and ideas, and sample some fine food (true UU communion!). These dinners are pot luck, so you can bring your own favorite dish to share or consult with your host to coordinate as you like.
We hope these dinners will promote your renewed commitment to First Parish and encourage you to make a financial pledge in support of the church for the coming year’s programs and operations At each dinner we will have a fellow church member to facilitate discussions. Towards the end of the dinner event you are asked to fill out a pledge card or make another indication of your interest in support of First Parish. The Canvass Dinners have been quite successful and provided enjoyable occasions for many of our members to refresh and make new connections with First Parish.
We have scheduled Canvass Dinners on a number of different dates with a view to making it possible for you to attend and participate. Here is the current schedule:
Date Time
Place & Host TBD except where noted
Wednesday 4 March 7 - 9
Thursday 5 March 7 - 9
Friday 6 March 7 - 9
Saturday 7 March 6 - 8 FPW Social Hall, child care provided
Wednesday 1 1 March 7 - 9
Thursday 12 March 7 - 9
Friday 13 March 7 - 9
Saturday 14 March 6 – 8 FPW Social Hall, child care provided
We are grateful to those church members who have offered to host a dinner at their homes already and are still looking to fill a few slots. So for the rest of us, all that is left to do is to sign up, show up and participate!
To reserve your dinner spot, contact John Portz at jportz@rcn.com to indicate which dinner you can attend. Please do not contact the hosts directly at this time.
Annual Dinner & Show
We will conclude our pledging season and celebrate by gathering together for The First Parish Annual Dinner & Show on Saturday 4 April at the church. This will be a full-scale pot-luck dinner (no leftovers!) with featured entertainment and skits from many talented and lively members and friends of the First Parish community. Isabel Tappan-deFrees izzyt@rcn.com will be organizing the Talent Show, so start planning your fantastic presentation!
Things to do:
- Check your calendars today and reserve the dates.
- Select a Canvass Dinner that best suits your schedule and contact John Portz
jportz@rcn.com to reserve a spot for yourself.
- Think about your connection and commitment to The First Parish of Watertown and get ready to engage with your fellow members of
the congregation.
February's GIVING BOX
...Consider the animals...
We know the need is overwhelming for "people" food--but--what about the need for "domestic animal" food? We posed this question to several non-profit organizations in our area and much to our surprise the answer was--"Yes, Oh! yes--the need is great--but we have not set up a formal animal food pantry--we do not have the space or people to staff it."
...and so, the Giving Box for February will: "begin at the very beginning." We contacted the Merwin Animal Clinic in Brighton/Allston, MA, a non-profit organization that was begun in 1926 by Peter Simpson who started treating horses when owners could not afford the services of established large animal vets. In the 1930's, Harriet Byrd, a local humanitarian, went about gathering funding to treat household pets, namely cats and dogs, from families who could ill afford to provide care for them and thus the Merwin Animal Clinic began and has been providing services to needy families with the kind and expert donation of time from local veterinarians. The animals are treated without set fees. One gives what one can to pay for the care of their pets.
Once again, we're asking our FPW family, friends and youngsters to 'step up to the plate(s)' and fill them with a variety of canned dog and cat food and boxes/bags of dry food also. Search about at home for old/used towels/blankets and bring these also--household pets need them for warmth and snuggle-time. Debra Z, the DRE, may ask church teens to organize a one day town-wide drive to augment the February Giving Box efforts for domestic pets...asking the Watertown Community at large to bring pet food/towels and blankets to FPW on a designated Saturday. The Giving Box is indeed a church-wide effort and can be an impetus to the town to be aware of basic needs of pets who remain dear to family's hearts even in time of financial stress.
We are also asking our church school youngsters and teens (and adults also) to help us with pictures/drawings of your own cats and dogs so that we can display them during February as 'gentle' Giving Box reminders. (**If you do not have a cat or dog, please make a drawing of ones you particularly like---or have cared about in your past**).
We'll end our Giving Box article with a 'commercial ditty' to help remind you to shop for our four-legged pals..."Meow-Meow-Meow-Meow"--"Woof-Woof-Woof-Woof"--- AND..the ever-popular: "How much is that doggy/kitty in the window?--The one with the waggity tail---We know they'll appreciate your shopping--Their food is always on sale!!!!!"We thank you, as always.
Jill Shaw and Barbara Farrell
Personal Green Experience
"The ways we use energy strengthen our adversaries and threaten our planet," said President Obama in his inaugural address. His solution: "We will harness the sun and the winds and the soil to fuel our cars and run our factories. And we will transform our schools and colleges and universities to meet the demands of a new age."
I have heard that an estimated 5 billion people (in some way) heard what our new President of the United States said. There is an estimated 6.7 billion people on the planet, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. Clearly the planet is interested in what he has to say.
How is this personal to me? Well, Anna and I were invited to visit some friends, who live in the Washington DC area during the time of the inauguration. We accepted and proceeded south early Saturday morning. When we arrived in DC, there was an excitement in the air. Everywhere you looked, there were Obama images and slogans from his campaign. “Yes we can” and “Yes we did” were some of the more prominent ones. Every one was speaking of the history of the moment and how optimistic they were of America’s future under the expected new leadership of this person who inspires and promotes hope.
I feel as I’ve been working (along with many others) against the tide to help make human existence on planet Earth sustainable. As you all know by now, Americans are some of the least efficient users of natural resources around, but perhaps this will all change. When I heard “we will harness the sun and the winds,” I was reassured that we will no longer be working against our government, at least not as much as we had been for the past 8 years. I am invigorated to continue my efforts in the difficult work ahead to help realize the vision of a sustainable existence!
Mike Anctil, Green Sanctuary (GS) committee member dma02155@comcast.net
(617) 744-0454
Look for upcoming announcements in the near future of how you can get involved in the efforts of the Green Sanctuary Committee. Our activities will be featured in an upcoming Sunday Service, citing some successes and hopefully encourage you to get more involved.
Charitable offerings
Our FPW members and friends have been very generous in their gifts to organizations we have chosen to receive charitable offerings. Our UU Service Committee final total was higher than we reported last month. Final total was yet another all time high: $1,837.00. Our January offering for the Watertown Family Network was $470.00. The director, Arlene Smith was in church on January 25 to say a few words about the program of the Network. Our offering in February will benefit the Heifer Project, which is an RE focus for the entire month. As always, all loose cash received that day, and checks made out to the Heifer Project will go to the Heifer Project. Any checks made out to First Parish will count towards pledges.
Pageant Pictures
If you would like to see Solstice/Christmas pageant pictures from December 21, 2008. They have been uploaded to our website to a Picasa album by Kyle Hart. Please visit the members page, and check them out through that link (user:fpwatertown; password:arbella). These are the photos by Isabel Tappan-deFrees. Thanks to Kyle and Izzy.
New RE Classroom!
Please check out what has occurred in the kitchen. Our space needs committee decided to move forward in consultation with the Building and Grounds Committee and contract a new RE classroom in relatively unused space in the kitchen. The preschool seems happy with the change, too. The nice work was done by Paul Nelson.
Benefit Concert for Chairs
The Music Director of the Andover UU Church is going to hold a benefit concert here on Saturday, February 28. Proceeds are going to be split between an Andover project (a new piano?), and our chair fund. We do not have details yet, but will send them out as soon as we can.
Spiritual Autobiography
Nine people have expressed an interest in the Spiritual Autobiography class. If there is further interest in taking this class, please let Mark know right away as we are trying to schedule dates. There will probably be four class sessions, with maybe a fifth to share writing. The content will be something of what he spoke about in his Sunday sermon on January 25 (see website) - Who were the mentors in your life, draw a spiritual road map of your life, what was your favorite childhood room, etc. The ultimate goal will be getting something down on paper, and hopefully sharing it. It should be interesting!
Broadway and Chocolate
Do you love singing great music and/or eating dessert? To fully celebrate Valentine's Day, the Parish Committee invites all to gather with friends on Saturday February 14th at 7:00pm - 8:30pm for an evening of merry-making and camaraderie. Guy Urban will accompany and we will bring along our favorite Broadway tunes to sing and enjoy. Please bring a dessert to share--chocolate or something else (for the non-chocolate eaters)? Parish Committee will provide drinks. This is pure fun and pleasure... and is a great remedy for the winter blues. Please mark your calendars and join us at FPW.
Flowers at First Parish
Beautify the Sunday services! Celebrate a special person or event in your life! There are opportunities to donate flowers for the chalice table on Sunday mornings. Please see the sign-up sheet on the bulletin board in the Social Hall to sign-up.
Cape Cod Summer Rental (Wellfleet)
A wonderful opportunity for a quiet week or weekend retreat in a fully equipped single level Cape style home in Wellfleet. The house is located on the bayside and has a large deck overlooking the salt marsh. It sleeps 8 in three bedrooms and has 2 bathrooms. You can take advantage of beautiful Wellfleet beaches or the National Seashore with access to fishing, clamming, nature walks, whale watches, art galleries and more.
It is available in season and off season on a weekly or weekend basis Call Nancy Dutton or David Benson at 617-926-9254 or email:njdutton@comcast.net.
Massachusetts Bay District of UU Congregations @ Work
Listening for Strength in Our Congregations
by Rev. Sue Phillips, Acting Director of Program Development
FOR MORE INFORMATION about Appreciative Inquiry or other tools to help your congregation thrive
- see the Appreciative Inquiry Commons at http://appreciative inquiry.case.edu/
- contact Rev. Sue Phillips at sphillips@uua.org or 617-803-1116
When something is not quite working in our congregations (a conflict perhaps, or a troubled church program), we have a tendency to focus on what is going wrong. We attend to the sticking point, throwing resources of time, emotional energy, and sometimes money to address the problem. A quick look at most Board or Parish Committee agendas attest to the fact that Unitarian Universalists tend to be a problem-solving people! No matter how good we are at problem solving, though, we regularly miss opportunities to concentrate on what is going right.
Appreciative Inquiry is a strategy that helps us get out of this problem trap, and invites us to concentrate on our strengths. Instead of trying to fix what isn’t working, we turn our attention to doing more of what is already working well in our community. Appreciative Inquiry questions are always framed positively around affirmative topics. Questions like What do you value most about being part of our congregation? What do you think is making a positive difference in how we’re working together as a committee? When you are being your best self, what qualities do you bring to your church work?
Appreciative Inquiry is a creative way of asking questions that nurtures collaboration and builds community. The process of listening builds dynamic relationships that in turn strengthen the congregation and the people in it.
UPCOMING AT MASS BAY DISTRICT
-The Prophethood of All Believers: Sermon-Writing and Preaching for Lay People: February 21, 2009
-Lay Pastoral Care Teams Training: March 21, 2009
-Seeking Wholeness in a Fragmented World, Spring Conference and Annual Meeting: April 25, 2009
“Once you experience such an event, [you] … get a stronger appreciation for our faith and the community at large.”
(event participant)
www.mbduua.org / 617-393-4216
Arbella
February 2009
for events please go to the member page for the calendar
Sermons and Worship Services
Sunday, February 1, 2009 11:00 a.m.
“Risk Aversion” Mark W. Harris
A recent Parade Magazine headline story was “How to Survive the Worst.” While Parade hardly reflects my own philosophy, it does give us insight into popular culture. There is a prevalent fear of disasters, and the Miracle on the Hudson will probably exacerbate that. Should we be so scared all the time?
Greeters: Anne Harrington, Mike Schade
Social Hour: Kathy Button, Paul Montesino
Sunday, February 8 , 2009 11:00 a.m.
“If We Come From Apes, How Come Apes Are Still Around? Darwin at 200” Mark W. Harris
I saw this sign at a Building 19 (the kind of place that sells salvaged goods, etc.) the other day. On February 12 both Charles Darwin and Abraham Lincoln celebrate 200th birthdays. How has Darwin influenced liberal religion?
FPW Choir sings; Story for all Ages
Greeters: Nancy Dutton and David Benson
Social Hour: Ken Repp & Chris Johnson
Sunday, February 15 , 2009 11:00 a.m.
Anniversary Sunday - “Rebels With a Cause” Mark W. Harris
In February First Parish marks its anniversary of becoming a Unitarian church (pre merger with the Universalists). This has often been a history Sunday for us. Today we will look at our heritage of going against the grain, even from the beginning in 1630. Are you antiauthority, and why?
Greeters: Jan Klein and Bobbie Brown
Social Hour: Tesi Kohlenberg & Tom Goodwillie
Sunday, February 22 , 2009 11:00 a.m.
Intergenerational Service- Heifer Project
This service will feature a special skit by our church school children. They are devoting the entire month of February to a special unit on the Heifer Project. Our charitable offering in February will also benefit Heifer. There will be a story, and some special fun music with Charlyn and Guy.
Greeters: Charmian Proskauer, Beth Parsons
Social Hour: Norah Mulvaney & Paul Day
Captain’s Log
There are two significant anniversaries this month on the same day. The birth days are February 12, and the individuals are Charles Darwin and Abraham Lincoln, both born two hundred years ago in 1809. Darwin had Unitarian connections, but was not one of us. His grandfather Erasmus Darwin was a Unitarian and part of the famous Lunar Society, which included Joseph Priestley, who discovered oxygen and was one of the founders of the Unitarian movement in England, and Josiah Wedgwood, the famous potter. Charles’ father and Erasmus son felt as though there was more social and religious clout if he became an Anglican. Not, wanting to be an outcast as a Unitarian, Charles’ father converted, and pressured Charles at one time to become a priest. But it was Charles’ voyage on the ship Beagle that gave us a scientific gift, The Origin of Species, that challenged all religious faiths. Religious groups have wrestled with evolution ever since. Unitarians and Universalists were among the first to embrace Darwin’s views, but it was not immediate, as the ideas revolutionized the way in which humanity conceived of creation and the development of the human species, and of course it challenged the Bible, too. The hierarchy of heaven began to fall thanks to Darwin. Unitarians and Universalist have always embraced scientific approaches to faith in our search for truth. I will preach about Darwin on
February 8.
We have already heard a great deal about Lincoln and his wholesale emulation and admiration by President Obama from words, to philosophy (Team of Rivals) even down to an historic train trip and the inaugural Bible (Judge Roberts better practice a little next time). Lincoln, the great liberator and savior of the union is a tough act to emulate. Lincoln’s religion is also tough to pinpoint. He attended some Universalist services, and he rejected the idea of hell, and also believed in providence and destiny. But he never had any denominational affiliation of any kind. We know his faith was deep, but it did not pass the test of orthodoxy. He objected to ceremonies and forms too much. He was influenced by the Unitarian preacher Theodore Parker who inspired him with a variation on the phrase “ government of the people, by the people, and for the people.”
Obama has UU connections, too. I had read in the paper that Obama’s grandmother’s memorial service was held in the UU Church in Honolulu, but had not seen any details until our former intern Sue Kingman sent along her church newsletter where she quoted the Honolulu minister Mike Young at length. It seems than many years ago Obama’s grandmother had brought him through the doors of her UU church, and he attended there some. Now in death, he returned there to uphold and declare his family’s gratitude for her life, and what she had given to them. There was much secretiveness about where the service would be held, and high level security at the church in the days prior to the service.
When I was a boy I was always concerned that Washington’s Birthday was a holiday, but Lincoln’s was not. My brother especially lobbied for this at home, since February 12 was his birthday, too, and he wanted a special holiday. Despite my brother, the little historian in me believed our greatest president deserved this celebration as much as the initial holder of the office. With President’s Day we have recognized both, but in other ways have lost the distinctiveness of the two days. In school I learned lots of heroic myths about both of them such as walking miles to return a book, and the infamous cherry tree and the refusal to lie. They were stories that made me patriotic in my own way, even as this love for our country and its history was challenged with the Vietnam War and racial strife. It is exciting and inspiring when it feels like our country is trying to live up to its founding and guiding principles.
Darwin loomed large in my brother’s studies, as he became a biologist. Unfortunately, a family squabble over my father’s will led to his rejection of the entire family, including me. I have tried a couple of times over the years to settle this. One of our members shared a story about reconciliation with his sister in joys and sorrows. It inspired me to think that perhaps it is time for me to try again. Darwin's ideas form the basis for most biological thinking today. But on a human level his ideas also reminds us of how short our time is, and how much we need one another. Anniversaries of famous figures remind us of how important people were in the development of history, and birthdays reminds us of those who we once spoke to every day, and now perhaps, don’t speak to at all. As this birthday approaches, it would be good to end, at least a little, some of this winter of discontent. Happy Birthday to Charles and Abraham, and, to my brother, too, wherever he is.
Mark
Among Us
Our Deepest Sympathy to Chuck Dickinson, at the death of his mother. He and Lynn recently atttended a memorial in California.
Healing thoughts to Paul Day, who fell on the ice and suffered a badly broken leg. This necessitated the postponing of Comedy Night for now.
Helen Wait, a long term member of First Parish, died on January 12, 2009. There will be a memorial service at FPW on Feb. 28. If you wish to send a card, expressions of condolence can go to her daughter who lives in Sudbury. Her daughter is:
Cathy Manwaring
46 Massasoit Ave.
Sudbury, MA 01776
Congratulations to Missy and Bob Shay who became grandparents again. Bella Korinne Shay was born on January 17, 2009. Mother and daughter are home and Keith and Kymani are enjoying having them there.
New members -
A warm welcome to new members who were voted in by the Parish Committee:
Victoria Grafflin-Conway, Michael Conway and Connie Wilson.
Religious Education
Faith, Hope and Clarity…
Can you believe it? Can you believe that it has been six months since I began my journey here with you all at First Parish as your new DRE. Beginning in a position as a first time DRE is a bit like going out on a blind date. It begins with cautious interest, not quite certain what to expect, a bit shy at first then we extend the sweaty palms of fellowship take a deep breath and begin. For me the first few months have been a whirlwind of getting to know the individuals who are First Parish Watertown, a work in progress I might add. I am impressed with those who I have gotten to know and grateful to have so many gracious and dedicated people with whom to collaborate on the work of religious education. I have faith, faith that if I put forth my best efforts that others will do so as well. With faith, together we can continue to grow and to find meaningful ways in which to better understand and connect with our own and with our children’s spiritual lives.
So now, well under way I am bursting with hope. I hope that I will be able to encourage and support those who already give their time and talents to RE as well as to those individuals who are uncertain about where and how they might support the RE work of this community. I for one am riding the current of hope - hope, which has so recently invigorated and charged our entire nation. The call to volunteerism is not just a slogan for the media it is a vaccine for entropy, a cure for ennui. Here at First Parish we are so fortunate for there is an opportunity to volunteer every week! Every week at First Parish we need people willing to try, to take that leap of faith and help out in an RE classroom or program. Ah, that old soapbox of mine!
I have been at First Parish long enough to have made my first mistakes - the pathway of learning and growth! From these first miss-steps I have gained some clarity. I know that communication is vital, and now I am aware that some of the most important work which I can do to support this community is to provide clarity; to communicate in a regular and consistent way. I currently update the RE portion of the First Parish Web Page weekly, this is a good place to begin to look for information.. I check my First Parish email account (drewatertown@yahoo.com) daily, but often do not immediately reply to messages. I will always reply to messages on Monday evening, Wednesday morning, Friday during the day, and Saturday during the day. If you are expecting an email reply these would be the times to look. I can be reached at my home phone number, (781) 863-1319, but I am often not at home. Please leave a message and I will return your call as soon as I am able. I am not available at First Parish during the week.
Important update: Karen Allendoerfer and Kelly Morton have both stepped down as co-chairs of the RE committee. I thank Karen and Kelly for their work during a challenging time of transition. Both Karen and Kelly will continue on the RE committee. Tom Goodwillie has agreed to step up to chair the committee. Thank you Tom for your generosity and compassion.
Coming up in February! The Heifer Project International: February 1 -22nd
I am excited to report that the children and youth of First Parish will begin a four week social action term on Sunday, February 1st. We will be learning about the work of The Heifer Project International. During structured workshop time, the children and youth will be making various items which they will sell at fellowship hour on February 22nd to help to raise funds for the Heifer Project. The offering on February 22nd will be donated to Heifer International as well. Then on Friday, March 27th come join together as the Youth Group presents a dinner to raise funds on behalf of Heifer International. Please come on down and check out what we are doing!
In faith, hope and clarity!
Namaste (The Divinity within me perceives and adores the Divinity within you)
Debra Zagaeski (DRE)
Musically Speaking……
by Charlyn Bethell
One thing that unites us at First Parish is our singing hymns at a church service. Even people who choose not to sing enjoy and benefit from the singing of hymns. Some churches have organ or electric keyboard accompaniment with or without drums and bass. Some people move to the music by clapping and swaying to the beats.
I have been reading articles about congregational singing. I am learning about the different ways that congregations sing at a church service. Traditionally, we stand and read the words and music together in a song we might remember singing some other time. For some of us, singing hymns in a church service is the only time in the week that we sing. Singing hymns in at church can be an experience that can leave us feeling spiritually whole. Church services would not be complete without hymn singing. We love singing hymns. My father grew up with traditional Baptist hymns that he loved and I often fell asleep to the sound of him playing those treasured tunes by ear on his little chord organ.
Our songs define us. The melodies and words meld together to create moments of beauty that enhance our lives. I have been discovering how much our minister loves our hymns. I did not know that he carefully keeps track of how many times we sing each hymn! Sometimes, as we discuss coming church services, he can’t contain himself and breaks into song! As the great Hungarian composer, Zoltan Kodaly, has said, “Rhythm develops attention, concentration, determination and the ability to condition oneself. Melody opens up the world of emotions. Dynamic variation and tone color sharpen our hearing. Singing, finally, is such a many-sided physical activity that its effect is immeasurable—if there is perhaps anyone to whom the spirit does not matter.”
I notice that some people in our congregation sing harmony in the hymns as we sing them on Sunday. I have heard it said that people who sit close to such singers really enjoy being next to them. Some people start singing some songs spontaneously in canon. Last week, people who were so moved, started clapping with a song. I applaud people who lose themselves in a song and need to move or clap as the spirit moves them. I love the confidence and exuberance they radiate.
I am hoping that we keep reaching out for diversity in our shared singing. Those who know the words to the chorus of a song might try putting their hymnal aside and move or clap to the song. Of course, we will need to know the song very well to do that. Maybe we should have occasional weeks that we sing through the hymns prior to the service. Perhaps we find out which are our favorite hymns and sing them all at a special service. We might need some more services with percussion instruments available to us to use to accompany our common singing. However YOU are comfortable singing, let us continue to do that but also give permission to others to go beyond the usual.
Please let me hear from you about how we can all be involved even more in our singing hymns together at church. We sing for the songs and for the singing and for our spirits, individually and collectively. Let us be ready to let it all hang out as we come together with our songs and our singing.
Serving a Meal to the Needy
On Friday evening, February 27, First Parish has committed to serving dinner to the needy at the Arlington Street Church on Boston. The program is run by the Friday Night Supper Program, and has been in place since 1984. Dinner is from 5:00 – 7:00 p.m., and volunteers are needed. The Coming of Age group will be participating, but we need many adult volunteers as well. If you are able to help, contact Mark Harris.
The mission of the Friday Night Supper Program is to provide a warm nutritious meal to anyone in need in a safe and dignified environment every Friday night. Approximately 150 people attend. The guests come from different backgrounds and may include those coping with AIDS, mental illness, or substance abuse; the elderly; the disabled; abused women; homeless individuals; and those who are jobless, minimally employed, or living below the poverty level. All who come are served, no questions asked. The program prides itself on providing not only nourishment for the body thorough food but also nourishment for the soul through dignity and respect. For more information, visit their website at www.fridaynightsupper.org.
Request from Finance Committee
If you made a pledge for the 2008 – 2009 fiscal year, you are probably receiving a letter from First Parish this week thanking you and telling you how much is left on your pledge. This time of year is a bit of a juggling feat for FPW. Our fiscal year ends on 3/31 and we’d like to have an excellent idea of how we are going to end the year by 3/1. If you can complete your pledge payment by 2/28, that is a significant help to us in our budget planning for next year.
2009 Canvass Kick-Off: “Yes! U Can!”
For some, it has seemed this year that each day has brought news of some new down-turn – in the world economy, in the US image abroad, in our citizens’ ability to lead quality lives… Many in our community have been affected by illness and lay-offs. Some days, cheeriness has been in short supply.
But then, we had Sundays with Joys and Sorrows… We have had a church community that has held us up. In December’s sharing of faith, Celeste Oliva described the community of First Parish. She spoke movingly of selflessness and giving in times of others’ stress, of the goodness of others’ hearts that makes her grateful to be a part of this community.
The Canvass for 2009 – 2010 is borrowing an oft-used phrase from the summer and fall. “Yes! U Can!” rejoices in the themes of sustainability, nurturing and hope that we share as a spiritual community. We can give to one another. We can hold each other up. We can keep our church strong and continue to build it through times of strife and gladness so generations to come can experience the same coming together for love, sharing and support. We minister to one another every time we listen… every time we open our hearts. These actions change the world.
The “Yes! U Can” canvass is for all friends and members of First Parish to help in the ongoing life of the church for the fiscal year 2009 – 2010. Stay tuned to the “Arbella”, your email, church announcements, your phone for more information on how you can be involved! If you have any questions, please feel free to contact any member of the Finance Committee: Michael Collins, Paul Dansereau, Carole Katz, John Portz, Bob Shay, or Beth Tappan-deFrees.
Let the 2009 Canvass begin !
It is time again to turn our attention to the need to support and sustain First Parish as an active, thriving community through our commitment of financial resources. Canvass also provides an occasion for us all to consider what First Parish means to each of us, what our goals should be going forward, and how best to achieve them.
Here is the basic schedule:
1 February Information
An informal session with Finance Committee members after church (more can be scheduled if needed)
1 March Canvass Sunday
Mark Harris will help U feel optimistic
8 March Canvass Skit Sunday
Paul Day will be back on his feet (!)
4 – 14 March Canvass Dinners
See details below
4 April Annual Dinner & Show
See details below
26 April Annual Meeting 12:30; lunch will be served;
meeting details to follow
Canvass Dinners
Each year during canvass season, we hold a series of Canvass potluck dinners hosted by various members at their homes (and 2 at the church social hall), where you can enjoy each other’s company, share your experiences and ideas, and sample some fine food (true UU communion!). These dinners are pot luck, so you can bring your own favorite dish to share or consult with your host to coordinate as you like.
We hope these dinners will promote your renewed commitment to First Parish and encourage you to make a financial pledge in support of the church for the coming year’s programs and operations At each dinner we will have a fellow church member to facilitate discussions. Towards the end of the dinner event you are asked to fill out a pledge card or make another indication of your interest in support of First Parish. The Canvass Dinners have been quite successful and provided enjoyable occasions for many of our members to refresh and make new connections with First Parish.
We have scheduled Canvass Dinners on a number of different dates with a view to making it possible for you to attend and participate. Here is the current schedule:
Date Time
Place & Host TBD except where noted
Wednesday 4 March 7 - 9
Thursday 5 March 7 - 9
Friday 6 March 7 - 9
Saturday 7 March 6 - 8 FPW Social Hall, child care provided
Wednesday 1 1 March 7 - 9
Thursday 12 March 7 - 9
Friday 13 March 7 - 9
Saturday 14 March 6 – 8 FPW Social Hall, child care provided
We are grateful to those church members who have offered to host a dinner at their homes already and are still looking to fill a few slots. So for the rest of us, all that is left to do is to sign up, show up and participate!
To reserve your dinner spot, contact John Portz at jportz@rcn.com to indicate which dinner you can attend. Please do not contact the hosts directly at this time.
Annual Dinner & Show
We will conclude our pledging season and celebrate by gathering together for The First Parish Annual Dinner & Show on Saturday 4 April at the church. This will be a full-scale pot-luck dinner (no leftovers!) with featured entertainment and skits from many talented and lively members and friends of the First Parish community. Isabel Tappan-deFrees izzyt@rcn.com will be organizing the Talent Show, so start planning your fantastic presentation!
Things to do:
- Check your calendars today and reserve the dates.
- Select a Canvass Dinner that best suits your schedule and contact John Portz
jportz@rcn.com to reserve a spot for yourself.
- Think about your connection and commitment to The First Parish of Watertown and get ready to engage with your fellow members of
the congregation.
February's GIVING BOX
...Consider the animals...
We know the need is overwhelming for "people" food--but--what about the need for "domestic animal" food? We posed this question to several non-profit organizations in our area and much to our surprise the answer was--"Yes, Oh! yes--the need is great--but we have not set up a formal animal food pantry--we do not have the space or people to staff it."
...and so, the Giving Box for February will: "begin at the very beginning." We contacted the Merwin Animal Clinic in Brighton/Allston, MA, a non-profit organization that was begun in 1926 by Peter Simpson who started treating horses when owners could not afford the services of established large animal vets. In the 1930's, Harriet Byrd, a local humanitarian, went about gathering funding to treat household pets, namely cats and dogs, from families who could ill afford to provide care for them and thus the Merwin Animal Clinic began and has been providing services to needy families with the kind and expert donation of time from local veterinarians. The animals are treated without set fees. One gives what one can to pay for the care of their pets.
Once again, we're asking our FPW family, friends and youngsters to 'step up to the plate(s)' and fill them with a variety of canned dog and cat food and boxes/bags of dry food also. Search about at home for old/used towels/blankets and bring these also--household pets need them for warmth and snuggle-time. Debra Z, the DRE, may ask church teens to organize a one day town-wide drive to augment the February Giving Box efforts for domestic pets...asking the Watertown Community at large to bring pet food/towels and blankets to FPW on a designated Saturday. The Giving Box is indeed a church-wide effort and can be an impetus to the town to be aware of basic needs of pets who remain dear to family's hearts even in time of financial stress.
We are also asking our church school youngsters and teens (and adults also) to help us with pictures/drawings of your own cats and dogs so that we can display them during February as 'gentle' Giving Box reminders. (**If you do not have a cat or dog, please make a drawing of ones you particularly like---or have cared about in your past**).
We'll end our Giving Box article with a 'commercial ditty' to help remind you to shop for our four-legged pals..."Meow-Meow-Meow-Meow"--"Woof-Woof-Woof-Woof"--- AND..the ever-popular: "How much is that doggy/kitty in the window?--The one with the waggity tail---We know they'll appreciate your shopping--Their food is always on sale!!!!!"We thank you, as always.
Jill Shaw and Barbara Farrell
Personal Green Experience
"The ways we use energy strengthen our adversaries and threaten our planet," said President Obama in his inaugural address. His solution: "We will harness the sun and the winds and the soil to fuel our cars and run our factories. And we will transform our schools and colleges and universities to meet the demands of a new age."
I have heard that an estimated 5 billion people (in some way) heard what our new President of the United States said. There is an estimated 6.7 billion people on the planet, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. Clearly the planet is interested in what he has to say.
How is this personal to me? Well, Anna and I were invited to visit some friends, who live in the Washington DC area during the time of the inauguration. We accepted and proceeded south early Saturday morning. When we arrived in DC, there was an excitement in the air. Everywhere you looked, there were Obama images and slogans from his campaign. “Yes we can” and “Yes we did” were some of the more prominent ones. Every one was speaking of the history of the moment and how optimistic they were of America’s future under the expected new leadership of this person who inspires and promotes hope.
I feel as I’ve been working (along with many others) against the tide to help make human existence on planet Earth sustainable. As you all know by now, Americans are some of the least efficient users of natural resources around, but perhaps this will all change. When I heard “we will harness the sun and the winds,” I was reassured that we will no longer be working against our government, at least not as much as we had been for the past 8 years. I am invigorated to continue my efforts in the difficult work ahead to help realize the vision of a sustainable existence!
Mike Anctil, Green Sanctuary (GS) committee member dma02155@comcast.net
(617) 744-0454
Look for upcoming announcements in the near future of how you can get involved in the efforts of the Green Sanctuary Committee. Our activities will be featured in an upcoming Sunday Service, citing some successes and hopefully encourage you to get more involved.
Charitable offerings
Our FPW members and friends have been very generous in their gifts to organizations we have chosen to receive charitable offerings. Our UU Service Committee final total was higher than we reported last month. Final total was yet another all time high: $1,837.00. Our January offering for the Watertown Family Network was $470.00. The director, Arlene Smith was in church on January 25 to say a few words about the program of the Network. Our offering in February will benefit the Heifer Project, which is an RE focus for the entire month. As always, all loose cash received that day, and checks made out to the Heifer Project will go to the Heifer Project. Any checks made out to First Parish will count towards pledges.
Pageant Pictures
If you would like to see Solstice/Christmas pageant pictures from December 21, 2008. They have been uploaded to our website to a Picasa album by Kyle Hart. Please visit the members page, and check them out through that link (user:fpwatertown; password:arbella). These are the photos by Isabel Tappan-deFrees. Thanks to Kyle and Izzy.
New RE Classroom!
Please check out what has occurred in the kitchen. Our space needs committee decided to move forward in consultation with the Building and Grounds Committee and contract a new RE classroom in relatively unused space in the kitchen. The preschool seems happy with the change, too. The nice work was done by Paul Nelson.
Benefit Concert for Chairs
The Music Director of the Andover UU Church is going to hold a benefit concert here on Saturday, February 28. Proceeds are going to be split between an Andover project (a new piano?), and our chair fund. We do not have details yet, but will send them out as soon as we can.
Spiritual Autobiography
Nine people have expressed an interest in the Spiritual Autobiography class. If there is further interest in taking this class, please let Mark know right away as we are trying to schedule dates. There will probably be four class sessions, with maybe a fifth to share writing. The content will be something of what he spoke about in his Sunday sermon on January 25 (see website) - Who were the mentors in your life, draw a spiritual road map of your life, what was your favorite childhood room, etc. The ultimate goal will be getting something down on paper, and hopefully sharing it. It should be interesting!
Broadway and Chocolate
Do you love singing great music and/or eating dessert? To fully celebrate Valentine's Day, the Parish Committee invites all to gather with friends on Saturday February 14th at 7:00pm - 8:30pm for an evening of merry-making and camaraderie. Guy Urban will accompany and we will bring along our favorite Broadway tunes to sing and enjoy. Please bring a dessert to share--chocolate or something else (for the non-chocolate eaters)? Parish Committee will provide drinks. This is pure fun and pleasure... and is a great remedy for the winter blues. Please mark your calendars and join us at FPW.
Flowers at First Parish
Beautify the Sunday services! Celebrate a special person or event in your life! There are opportunities to donate flowers for the chalice table on Sunday mornings. Please see the sign-up sheet on the bulletin board in the Social Hall to sign-up.
Cape Cod Summer Rental (Wellfleet)
A wonderful opportunity for a quiet week or weekend retreat in a fully equipped single level Cape style home in Wellfleet. The house is located on the bayside and has a large deck overlooking the salt marsh. It sleeps 8 in three bedrooms and has 2 bathrooms. You can take advantage of beautiful Wellfleet beaches or the National Seashore with access to fishing, clamming, nature walks, whale watches, art galleries and more.
It is available in season and off season on a weekly or weekend basis Call Nancy Dutton or David Benson at 617-926-9254 or email:njdutton@comcast.net.
Massachusetts Bay District of UU Congregations @ Work
Listening for Strength in Our Congregations
by Rev. Sue Phillips, Acting Director of Program Development
FOR MORE INFORMATION about Appreciative Inquiry or other tools to help your congregation thrive
- see the Appreciative Inquiry Commons at http://appreciative inquiry.case.edu/
- contact Rev. Sue Phillips at sphillips@uua.org or 617-803-1116
When something is not quite working in our congregations (a conflict perhaps, or a troubled church program), we have a tendency to focus on what is going wrong. We attend to the sticking point, throwing resources of time, emotional energy, and sometimes money to address the problem. A quick look at most Board or Parish Committee agendas attest to the fact that Unitarian Universalists tend to be a problem-solving people! No matter how good we are at problem solving, though, we regularly miss opportunities to concentrate on what is going right.
Appreciative Inquiry is a strategy that helps us get out of this problem trap, and invites us to concentrate on our strengths. Instead of trying to fix what isn’t working, we turn our attention to doing more of what is already working well in our community. Appreciative Inquiry questions are always framed positively around affirmative topics. Questions like What do you value most about being part of our congregation? What do you think is making a positive difference in how we’re working together as a committee? When you are being your best self, what qualities do you bring to your church work?
Appreciative Inquiry is a creative way of asking questions that nurtures collaboration and builds community. The process of listening builds dynamic relationships that in turn strengthen the congregation and the people in it.
UPCOMING AT MASS BAY DISTRICT
-The Prophethood of All Believers: Sermon-Writing and Preaching for Lay People: February 21, 2009
-Lay Pastoral Care Teams Training: March 21, 2009
-Seeking Wholeness in a Fragmented World, Spring Conference and Annual Meeting: April 25, 2009
“Once you experience such an event, [you] … get a stronger appreciation for our faith and the community at large.”
(event participant)
www.mbduua.org / 617-393-4216