Circle of Fellowship

Circle of Fellowship

The First Universalist Church of Central Square

A Unitarian Universalist Congregation

www.geocities.com/centralsquareuu/

Rev. Margaret Hart, Minister 625-4485

Rev. Libbie Stoddard, Assoc. Minister 343-4352

Tim Hart, President 625-4485

Ronna Schindler, Religious Education Coordinator 623-7685

Rita Thornton, Organist & Choir Director 669-6961

Our Church Building Is Handicapped Accessible

P. O. Box 429 Routes 49 West & 11

Central Square, NY 13036 (315) 668-6821

December 2006

The mission of the First Universalist Church of Central Square is to be a welcoming, diverse congregation, which values spiritual growth and service to the local and world communities.

MINISTERIAL MUSINGS

Dear friends,

Happy Holidays! How often have we heard that refrain and spoken it ourselves? Does it roll off our lips at this time of year, without thinking, like saying "How are you?" or "Have a nice day!"
When we encounter each other, how present are we really to each other? Recently I saw an old acquaintance, and she asked me "How are you?" I responded "Fine." She said "Liar! I'm fine too, and we're both liars." We laughed together, and enjoyed the moment of candor....the moment of truly being together. When I was doing my internship in Ithaca, one of the members of my internship committee was a survivor of cancer. When I greeted him with "How are you?"
he said, "I don't do How are yous". I realized that when we greet people in that way, it is often rather superficial... maybe we don't have the time or the inclination to really listen to how that person is. And the person who is being greeted with the question needs to decide whether to give the short answer or the long answer. How much to share? How much of a burden to be? It occurred to me that a more authentic greeting is to say something heartfelt like "It's good to see you."

May we remember, in the hustle and bustle of this season, that the greatest present we can give each other is our own presence. May this awareness, and this practice, remain with us throughout the year.

With love, respect, and all best wishes,
Margaret

Almost 300 prisoners across the US have joined the UU Church of the Larger Fellowship, with more every month. With no access to the web or UU Sunday services, prisoners' only way of learning more about UUism is through written publications, and letters exchanged with CLF staff and other UUs. Sadly, dozens of CLF prisoner-members have been waiting for many months to be matched with a UU pen pal through the CLF's Letter Writing Ministry. Members of any UU congregation who might like to write to a CLF prisoner-member are invited to visit the CLF website www.clfuu.org. Click on Prison Ministry to learn more about CLF's Prison Programs and apply for the Letter Writing Ministry.

"Men do not stumble over mountains, but over molehills."

Confucious

CHOIR TO PRACTICE

Our choir rehearses Sunday mornings starting at 9:30a.m. On December 9^th we will have our usual second Saturday of every month extended choir rehearsal from 9:30 a.m. to 12:00 noon. Anyone interested in singing is welcome to join us.

WELCOME A GUEST AT YOUR TABLE

Please take a flyer from the East Room table then think about, read about the people pictured on this year’s UU Service Committee’s small boxes - small in size, globe-encircling in hope and call for justice. Place a Guest at Your Table box where you have your meals and keep it there for several weeks. During that time share the Stories of Hope - stories drawn from UUSC’s human rights work - to imagine a different guest at your table with you each week. Coins, bills, checks are all welcome for those who can make financial contributions. Final collection will be Sunday, January 14^th. See Rev. Libbie Stoddard or Treasurer Judy Linder if you have questions.

BOARD PRESIDENT’S MESSAGE

We have heard some amazing speakers over the past 10 months during our Centennial celebration. Mike DiGiovanni shared some of Vernon Goettel's notes concerning the history of our church and later in the year gave us a wonderful look back at who donated our church's beautiful stained glass windows and the religious symbolism behind them. Tim Hart shared an interview with Max Coots, one of our past ministers who helped revitalize our church in the 1990's. Both the Perkins’ (Chet & Mary) and the Martin’s (Jane and Hartley) spoke about their rememberances of our church from the 1950's - 2006 (including the 1961 merger of the Universalist and Unitarian denominations that occurred in nearby Syracuse). Karen Dau came in August and shared her knowledge of how the First Universalist Church of Central Square fits into the Universalist history in New York State and CNY. Rev. Laine Hauxhurst, who served our church during its 75^th anniversary celebration, reflected back on that time. The finale of our celebration was our spaghetti dinner, musical talent show, and our November 5^th service with our District Executive, Rev. Tom Chulak, as special guest speaker. We are so fortunate to have so many wonderful people who made this Centenial so very special. Thanks to all of you who helped us celebrate and especially Mike DiGiovanni who chaired the Centennial Committee.

Our annual cookie and "sweet treats" sale will occur on Sunday, December 17^th, immediately following our service during coffee hour, downstairs in the diningroom. Here's how it works: oftlinemembers and friends of the church bake sweet treats to be sold to help support our church. We all then have an opportunity to purchase these delicious treats to share with our friends and family during the holidays. We ask that you package the treats in small quanties and you can price them or we will price them, if you prefer. Thanks in advance to all of you who will bake and those of you who will be purchasing these holiday treats.

HELP WANTED: We are still in GREAT NEED of a UU Circle president. If you have any inclination to serve in this capacity, I would be more than happy to assist you in all aspects of the job. We are also looking for volunteers to help out in the nursery one Sunday per month. See Winfield Ihlow, RE Chairperson, if you would like to help in this area.

A special thanks goes out to Nancy Haskell, Jody Brown, and Mike DiGiovanni for volunteering their time and talent to play piano and organ for us while Rita Thorton, our regular musician, is feeling "under the weather" (our thoughts and prayers are with you Rita). I'd also like to take this opportunity to thank our social justice committee, headed up by Nancy Hallock and her right-hand assistant, Janie Garlow, for all they do to create Peace on Earth and Good Will Towards All.

Merry Christmas / Happy Holidays, to all and to all a good December!

Tim Hart, Board President

Tact is the art of making a point without making an enemy.

ORNAMENT COMMUNION

As part of our worship service on December 10^th, we will be invited to put decorations on the Christmas tree in the sanctuary. We have been doing this for several years now, and it is fun to see the diversity and beauty of the ornaments which we have been donated in this way. Some of us have developed traditions (I order the ornament which is offered by AIDS Community Resources each year), in some way personalize their ornaments (I have seen family photos in small frames), or share something which has particular significance. However you would like to contribute, please attach to the ornament a small label with your family name, 2006.

Thank you for your participation.

Rev. Margaret Hart

DISTRICT GATHERING SATURDAY, JANUARY 13, 2007 MAY MEMORIAL UU SOCIETY IN SYRACUSE

Ministry with youth is about listening, empowerment, and spiritual guidance. It is instrumental to the vitality and growth of Unitarian Universalist communities. The Unitarian Universalist Association of Congregations is conducting a two-year process to revitalize and strengthen youth ministry. The Consultation on Ministry To and With Youth is designed to be a grassroots process that begins with input from individuals and congregations and progresses to districts and the organizations that provide services and support to congregations. In 2006, youth and congregations shared their hopes and ideas for how to better serve youth. Now, our district's engagement in this process is essential to its success.

On Saturday, January 13, 2007 from 2:00-6:00 p.m, at May Memorial Unitarian Universalist Society in Syracuse, youth and adults from around the SLD will gather to discuss our ministry with youth in congregations and at the district level.

Youth (both active and inactive in our congregations and district), ministers, religious educators, local/district youth advisors, congregational leaders, parents of youth, district staff, and SLD Board members are all encouraged to attend.

This gathering is an opportunity to learn what youth and congregations in our district have reported in surveys and congregational conversations, and to explore opportunities for stronger ministry with our diverse youth community. Participants will discuss what our district is doing well and could share with the rest of the Association, explore additional opportunities for youth, identify resources needed to move forward, and commit to action.

The gathering will be facilitated by youth leader, Jova Vargas and the Reverend Patricia Hoertdoerfer, members of the UUA's Task Force on Ministry To and With Youth. Mark your calendars and plan to attend! For more information, contact Jody Brown, the St. Lawrence District Youth Coordinator at 315-476-0447 or jfb523@gmail.com. Please RSVP to Jody Brown or to Karen Lapidus, SLD Program Consultant for Lifespan Faith Development at 330-757-9356 or klapidus@uua.org. If you plan to stay for dinner, but are not registered for the concurrent YAC conference, please bring $4.00 to cover the cost of food.

MEMBERSHIP COMMITTEE

A follow-up article "What our Church is Today" has been written by Margaret and hopefully will be in the Citizen Outlet next week. A procedure for welcoming visitors has been prepared and will be reviewed at the next meeting scheduled for December 17^th. Thanks to Ann, Janie and Larry for serving as greeters and hosting the coffee hour during November. Volunteers are badly needed for December, see Chet Perkins if you would like to help.

SKI SLOPES? BEACHES? SUNNY OSWEGO?

Rev. Stoddard will be on vacation during the month of January. Ski Slopes? Beaches? Quiet sunny Oswego? If out of town, she will leave a phone number in case of emergency. Enjoy your much deserved rest Libbie (but not too much). We’ll look forward to seeing you in February.

THANK YOU, THANK YOU, THANK YOU

Organist and Choir Director Rita Thornton wants to thank everyone for their cards and prayers as she deals with her health problems and asks that you continue to hold her in your thoughts. She also wants to especially thank Nancy, Mike and Jody for their help with the choir and playing the organ/piano and Ann and Janie for their help in decorating the sanctuary for Christmas.

COFFEE AND CHAT

The Coffee and Chat group will meet as usual at 9:15 on December 20^th. This is a chance for the women of the church to join together for conversation in a casual setting. Please call me at 635 -5294 or e-mail nhaskell@twcny.rr.com for further information. Hope to see you there.

Several of the men have also decided to get together at that time for coffee, etc. Check with Chet Perkins if you are interested in joining them.

Nancy Haskell

NEWSLETTER DEADLINE & THANKS

The January issue of this newsletter has found a new editor in Janie Garlow. Please contact her at Mjgarlow@aol.com by noon on Saturday, January 6^th with your articles for the January issue. Thank you Janie for taking on this important job (among the many other things you do for us.) I also want to extend a big thank you to Betty Figie who has been doing the folding, stapling and mailing for me while I’ve been doing the newsletter. Betty, I couldn’t have done it without your help!!

Ellen LaPine

Newsletter Editor

SOME HUMOR FROM JUDY TENNANT

An old dollar bill and an even older $20 arrive at a Federal Reserve Bank to be retired. "I've had a pretty good life," the $20 says.

"I've been to Vegas, the finest restaurants in New York and even on a Caribbean cruise".

"You did have an exciting life!" the dollar says.

"Where have you been?" the $20 asks.

"Oh, I've been to the Methodist church , Baptist church, spent some time with the Lutherans---"

"Wait," the $20 interrupts. "What's a church?"

FALL ROAST BEEF DINNER

The fall roast beef dinner will be held on December 9^th. Sign up sheets are in the East Room for wait staff, cooking, squash preparation, potato peeling, pie baking and most important, cleanup. Thank you in advance for your magnificent outpouring of help as you share your gifts with the church community.

With a Smile,

Kurt

POINSETTIAS

Please contact Larry Linder at 668-2429 or lslinder@earthlink.net if you would like to order a poinsettia for the Holidays in memory of a loved one. Thank you.

SOCIAL JUSTICE COMMITTEE HAPPENINGS

When I ordered Fair Trade coffee for our Fellowship, I also ordered organic dark chocolate candy bars (71% cocoa) and dark chocolate mint bars (67% cocoa). The cost is $2.50 and they will be on sale at coffee time on Sundays or by calling me. I also have organic cocoa mix and baking cocoa at $2.80 each. Decaf coffee in 12 oz. packages are for sale at $5.75 each. The product list is available in the kitchen. Shipping is free when I order three cases.

There will be a basket in the sanctuary for donations of hats, scarves and mittens for the Lioness’. The Random Acts of Kindness collection on December 3^rd will be donated to the Central Square Lions Club Christmas Basket Fund.The Christmas Carol performance on New Year’s Eve December 31^st is at 7:00 p.m. I have group seats reserved. The cost is $25 for adults and $15 for children under 18 years old. After the show all are invited to the church to share food and company. There are plenty of seats available for anyone interested. I will need the money by December 18^th. Checks should be made out to Syracuse Stage. If you are not interested in the show but do want to get together after, meet us at the church around 10 p.m. Bring a dessert or an appetizer to share.

The next meeting of the Social Justice Committee will be at 9:00 a.m. on Sunday December 10^th to plan the coming year. Everyone is welcome to participate.

Nancy Hallock

SJC Chairperson

TREASURER’S REPORT

Thank you for your financial support for the work of the church. Please remember that your pledges cover the operating costs for the church. Unfortunately the amount collected for the months September through November was $1,700 short of expenses. If everyone was current on their pledges we would have been meeting our expenses. Please take the opportunity in December to catch up on your pledges and take advantage of any tax deduction for the year. Pledges may be mailed to the church. Our address is PO Box 429, Central Square, NY 13036.

Thank you,

Judy Linder, Treasurer

HI-LITES OF THE DECEMBER BOARD MEETING

Treasurer Judy Linder noted that pledges are still behind for the year. 2006 statements will be going out at the end of December and she encourages those that are behind in their pledges to take advantage of the tax savings in 2006 by bringing their pledges up to date.

ARISE has discussed with Rev. Hart the possibility of using space in the church to teach clients the skills of daily living. Use of the church was approved by the Board.

The Board has approved the purchase of ten hymnal supplements. Seven have already been purchased by various church members for the church. If you would like to supplement the purchase, possibly in remembrance of someone, see Rev. Hart.

Chet Perkins and Rev. Hart will comprise a nominating committee for officers for the UU Circle. If you are interested in helping with the UU Circle in any capacity please contact one of them.

Ellen LaPine

Recording Secretary

Only when the Power of Love overcomes the Love of Power will there be True Peace.

CALENDAR

Tuesdays: *6:45 p.m. Chanting & Meditation

Wednesdays: * 6:47 p.m. Men’s Group

Dec 9: *9:30 a.m. Extended Choir rehearsal. *4:30 p.m. Roast Beef Supper.

Dec 10: *9:00 a.m. Social Justice Committee. *9:30 a.m. Choir Practice. *10:30 a.m. Worship service and ornament communion Rev. Margaret Hart. *11:00 Religious Education.

Dec 17: *9:00 a.m. RE Committee Meeting. * 9:30 a.m. Choir Practice. *10:30 a.m. Worship service, Rev. Libbie Stoddard and Religious Education children. *11:30 Annual Cookie Exchange and Sale.

Dec 20: *9:15 a.m. Coffee and Chat.

Dec 24: * 9:30 a.m. Choir Practice. *10:30 a.m. Worship service, Rev. Libbie Stoddard. *11:00 a.m. Religious Education. *6:00 p.m. Christmas Eve Service, Kurt Schindler.

Dec 25: *12:00 noon Christmas Day Dinner

Dec 31: * 9:30 a.m. Choir Practice. *10:30 a.m. Worship service, Andrea Abbott. *11:00 a.m. Religious Education.

Jan 6: *Noon Newsletter Deadline

Jan 7: *8:30 a.m. Board Meeting. * 9:30 a.m. Choir Practice. *10:30 a.m. Worship service, Kim Shuler-Teachout. *11:00 Religious Education.