E-mail UU-Valdosta at uuvaldosta@yahoo.com  

Phone:  229-242-3714 

 

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The Parson's Piece	Thank You! Thank You!	Religious Education
President's Column	Social Action	UU Activities and Announcements
Social Events!!	Board Notes
Sunday Services	Special Note! - See our congregational plans to welcome new members!

What’s going on.…February 2003

The Parson's Piece

Rev. Al Boyce 

Happy 2003 !! 

Here at the congregation we are off to, not only, a joyous start for the new year, but also a visionary one.  At this writing we have just finished a great weekend full of visioning, planning, and commitment.  Saturday, January 11th the president, Charles Green and I invited members and friends to join us for blueberry pancakes at 9 a.m. followed by a two hour presentation and discussion.  I presented to the gathered folks what I called: Structure for Growth - Phase I.  The presentation was then followed by discussion and and signing up for the tasks ahead.  I thank everyone who made a commitment to the various ministries presented. It was thrilling to observe the high level of optimism and willingness to commit time for the congregation by the members and friends in attendance.  The next day at the monthly Board meeting our governing body voted unanimously to implement the plan.  I thank our president and Board members for their vision, leadership and can-do attitude.   I also ask members and friends who have not yet made a commitment to please consider doing so.  The tasks are not time consuming (each task is clearly defined, explained and time required in the Structure for Growth presentation) but for the plan to be effective it will require the physical participation of every single person.  The whole Structure for Growth - Phase I will soon be on our website.  I encourage all to read it if you were unable to attend the Saturday event.  There are also hard copies of the presentation on the table by sign up sheets in the Sanctuary at the kitchen entrance.  In general the following plan was presented and is now being implemented:

·  End of month Bring-A-Dish dinner on the last Saturday night of the month in the homes of members to welcome and connect with folks who visited the past month.  Members and friends of the church are welcome and needed to participate.  To get involved please Joan Cline.  

·  We ask all members and friends to make a special effort to attend the Worship Services as possible over the next few months so visitors can blend comfortably.

·  Create and distribute a mass mailing to the city to introduce the church to our neighborhoods.

·   Encourage members and friends to invite guests on Sunday that we have our after church pot-luck

·  Encourage current and perspective leaders to attend leadership school the first weekend of March in Pensacola.

·    Organize and formally establish Membership, Greeter, and Social Outreach Committees

·   Continue quality Worship Services by having a paid musician

·  Add Coffee hour after Worship as a way for visitors to meet members and minister or speaker of the day; Coffee before church is fine for those who wish

· Create designated parking spaces for visitors - 2 to begin with and moving to 4 as the need dictates.  We also encourage members to park with the minister in the field at the school. 

I wish to extend a huge thank you to Randy and Betsy Thompson for stepping into the role as chairpersons of the new Membership Ministry.  I also thank Joan Cline for leading the end of month Bring-A- Dish and to Bobbie Dixon for organizing the greeters.  I ask all members and friends to express your gratitude and support to these folks who have given of their heart and time so freely to serve us.  Lets decide to speak words of encouragement to each other as we go about the business of creating space for our liberal voice in a city that needs our perspective so desperately.

Sunday Services

Rev. Al Boyce will lead the services on February 9 and 23.  His topic on February 9 will be  “Can One Be Patriotic and Anti-War?   I am! “  The theme of this topic will be Al's take on the threat of war in the Gulf.  Nearly 135,000 US troops will be in the gulf region by mid-February.  Seemingly, anyone questioning the deployment of our sons and daughters to an almost war-zone is interpreted as un-American.  Al's sermon will address this issue.

On February 23 Al’s topic will be “The Historical Jesus.” He has been reading this intellectual and researched piece by author Clausson on the historical life of Jesus.  This work, considered by scholars, to be one of, if not the most, historically accurate depiction of the life of Jesus will be the basis of the sermon.  Though Al does not do "book reports" there will be much historical fact in the sermon as presented by Clausson’s research. 

On February 2, one of our members, Dr. Karen Jacobsen, has agreed to be our speaker.  Karen is a recent addition to the English Department faculty at Valdosta State University.  Her topic will be a spiritual exploration in American literature and a discussion of the influence of American literature on the ethics of our culture. 

On February 16 Charles Judah, our Vice President, will present a Valentine’s Day topic,  "What's Love Got To Do With It?"  Dr. Jim Altman of "Lifestream," self improvement classes, in Jacksonville, will be the speaker.

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Religious Education

Youth R.E   Youth religious education meets on the second and fourth Sundays at 9:30 AM. Contacts: Lars Leader, Virginia Branan.

Adult R.E. Adult religious education meets on the second and fourth Sunday at 9:30 AM.  The leader for the topic, "Final Health Care Decisions," is Lars Leader. 

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Keep In Your Thoughts..... those of our members and friends experiencing the loss of loved ones, and health concerns. 

In Memory of Miriam Hope Miriam Hope died January 12. Her daughter, Meredith Tatch, said death came peacefully to Miriam, at home with her two daughters and son beside her bed. In her 84 years Miriam was an inspiration to us all to be active in our intellectual and spiritual journey, seeking and searching for answers to life's questions, and then to make a positive difference in this world through actions and advocacy.  Our church website, www.geocities.com/uuvaldosta, has a link to a review of Miriam's book, Meeting the IS. Those of you who attended the church when we were on Ashley Street have fond recollections of Miriam's adult religious education classes and her participation in discussion after the sermons or lectures. In the past few years her physical stamina did not allow her to attend services very often, but her mental alertness continued to challenge and intrigue those who visited or stayed in touch by phone. Miriam arranged for her body to be donated to Emory School of Medicine, so there will be no funeral. Her family is thinking towards a memorial service to be held this spring, perhaps Easter weekend. If you would like to send a card, you may address it to Meredith Tatch (or the family of Miriam Hope).

Charles Green

“Give of yourself as you are able….” 

I want to share my experiences with you in case you might identify or find inspiration in these ideas. I read portions of a book that my wife brought home at Christmas and was refreshed with ‘old coaching’ that I have received repeatedly addressing my ‘dark times’ of the year; (Thanksgiving ‘till Easter). This book is entitled “Life Strategies” by Phil McGraw, PhD. I suggest you read it and find one of the many personal exercises that is offered within, challenging to you. I found myself engaged by the first exercise on page 19 in the chapter entitled, “GET REAL”. The exercise is to write down 5 things in your life that you consider problems or challenges for you, in order of significance.  

Not first for me, but near the top; is my search for spiritual truth. It seems this “principal” is discussed whenever I’m near my UU extended family. This never-ending search seems to expand as my knowledge of what I do know is realized. It seems the more I am educated… the more I learn that there is a galaxy of things that I DO NOT KNOW. This ultimately brings me to the questions of ‘afterlife’… if an afterlife exists at all. I wish some ‘contemporary’ of mine could go into the next world (with a digital camera) and return with the answers. Not likely! HUH? 

I am excited about the opportunity to have support in this search, now that Rev. Al Boyce is leading our fellowship. I hope you see where this line of thought is leading. I have and we have an opportunity to grow our fellowship, faith, personal search and many other ambitious goals now that we have professional leadership twice a month at our chalice. We need to have other challenging programs/speakers on the two services that Rev. Boyce does not share his sermon with us. We need to use his ‘high water mark’ as a milestone level to strive to achieve on “non-Al” Sundays. So far, we have been successful. 

I want to challenge you to get involved with our fellowship with a passion, and passionately search for your own goals. We have an inspiring leader and we should not waste this moment in time to cultivate the maximum growth while in these months with Rev. Boyce. Please find time if you are able and willing to participate in as many new programs, activities and learning, that this year promises. Bring an open and accepting attitude. The only activities in my life that have been profound and stimulating allowing me to grow and learn, have been the times of my life where I have stepped-out of my ‘comfort box’ and participated fully. You will miss a window of learning, if you do not participate and of this I am sure. 

I ask only that you give of yourself as much as possible and share this journey with us. If you wish this opportunity for our area to have a place for Unitarian Universalist worship, please give of yourself as you are able… money, time, talents, attendance, participation, leadership, volunteerism, prayers and thoughts from near or far. 

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 From the Board

Since these notes for the January Board meeting are from your editor, who was not at the Board Meeting, you should check with Board members to confirm details and omissions..   The notes  are based on several sources.

The Board when it met in January approved all of the proposals from Rev. Al Boyce’s Structure For Growth Phase I.  Several committees were established and chairs appointed.  These are discussed elsewhere in the newsletter.  The Board approved up to $50 for each of the new committees.  The Board agreed to hire Lin Ming as the regular pianist and to use Donna Farwell, when needed, as a substitute pianist.  The Board voted to recommend a Bylaw change to the congregation, which would change the name of the president elect office to vice president and remove the succession requirement.   As currently constituted in the Bylaws the person in the president elect position is expected to become president in the following year.  If the change is passed, this  would no longer be the case. Rene Kerr indicated that she will probably be stepping down as treasurer and would like to have someone available to train before July. (See René’s note in the newsletter.)  Lars Leader reported on  the end-of-life Adult RE plans. Issues related to lighting were discussed.  The Board passed a motion authorizing Frank Asbury to obtain quotes from electricians for replacing the breezeway lights. Reverend Al and René said they would replace bulbs that day as needed. The Board discussed the idea of a Wayside Pulpit but no action was taken.

Membership Ministry

Randy and Betsy Thompson have volunteered to chair the new Membership Ministry.  The committee now needs other volunteers as members.  This is a key committee for the growth of the congregation, but if enough people volunteer and work conscientiously it should not be too much work for any one person.  Contact Randy and Betsey or Al or one of the Board members if you can help in this important way for our congregation. 

The purpose of the Membership Ministry is to  welcome new guests and provide opportunities to become integrated into the congregation.  It is envisioned that the committee’s duties and responsibilities will include:

·  Networking with Greeters to know who has visited and receive data gathered at the initial visit.

·   Sending a letter from the minister or chair of the Membership Ministry within 3 business days to every visitor.

·   Calling the visitors within 5 business days expressing joy at their attendance and seeking to help them acclimate as soon as possible to the church. Inviting them to worship again with us soon and to attend the end of month potluck/Bring-A-Dish.

·   Networking with Monthly Potlucks/Bring-A-Dish to identify people who may be ready to seek membership and suggest they meet with minister to discuss membership

·  Working with the minister to organize and present New Member Sunday twice a year.

·   Sending a brief introduction of the new members to the newsletter editor as they sign the Membership Roll.

·   Distributing Membership Packets upon the signing of the Membership Roll                        

·    Maintaining brochures and leaflets for visitor interest

·   Working with the minister to create visitor information cards to be distributed with a writing implement to every guest by the

·   Encouraging all prospective members and new members to attend the New U Course

·    Reporting to the Board monthly in writing on the committee activities

·    Reporting annually to the congregation in writing on the committee's activities for the past year

 

Greeters Ministry

In response to our Phase I Growth, we have started our Greeters Ministry. Bobbie Dixon has volunteered to coordinate the program. She would like to have enough volunteers so that any one person would only have to be a greeter every couple of months. Being a greeter only requires 20 minutes before service and a friendly face. Please call Bobbie to reserve your Sunday. The best slots are going fast, so call her soon or she'll call you. .            (Your editor, who has been doing a lot of visiting in new churches in the last several weeks, would like to impress on you how important this first impression can be.  She may well choose to attend regularly a group she is less familiar with than another she has known better in the past just because of the difference in her reception as a visitor.  If we want to grow in Valdosta this committee’s work may make the difference!  Everyone, wear your nametags! You give people the impression that you want them to know you and besides that it’s a good memory device for the newcomer.  Don’t make the visitor stand out too much by making them the only ones with nametags!  Just a few observations based on my personal experiment as a newcomer.) 

!!!Social Events!!!

With Great Joy we begin our new end of the month Bring-A-Dish Visitor's Dinner.

The purpose of this monthly event is to introduce our visitors of the month to each other and some long standing members.  This is a very important step in helping our visitors acclimate to the congregation.  Our first Bring-A-Dish will be held on Saturday, February 22 at the home of Joan Cline at 6:30 pm.  We are asking members to attend and bring your favorite dish. To sign up for the dinner, directions or for more info on how you can be supportive, please contact Joan. 

Treasurer’s Report

December 

Outstanding Debts

   Mortgage:                  $34099.64

   UUA:                            $586.00

                                     $34685.64

 

Savings:  $3085.95

 

Income:

   Pledge:                          $802.00

   Plate:                             $140.86

   Rent:                             $420.00

   Ministerial:       $2500.00

   Bench Ad:                       $34.00

                                      $3896.86

 

Expenses:        

   Mortgage:                      $500.00

   Utilities:             $119.75

   Minister:                      $2500.00

   Maintenance:                   $62.67

   Pianist:                           $140.00

   Bench:              $250.00

                                      $3572.42

 

Your Treasurer, René Kerr

 RESULTS OF THE BENCH COMPETITION:

 

Bench that now exists:  #1    700 votes

Unitarian Universalist Church

A community of Acceptance and Love

1951 E Park Ave.

 

New Bench Slogan:       #2      2286 votes

Unitarian Universalist Church

We preach "not hell but hope and courage"

1951 E Park Ave.

 

New Bench Slogan:       #3      1300 votes

Unitarian Universalist Church

Affirms the inherent dignity and worth of every person

1951 E Park Ave.

# 2 is the winner.  The words "We preach" will be left off of the quote.  Be looking for our new bench ad. It will also have our website address on it!

 

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Treasurer Looking for a Good Replacement: 

A request from our Treasurer René Kerr 

If you have not heard, my life will be changing drastically very soon.  I have held the office of treasurer for the church for four+ years and have enjoyed the honor. The Board and I would like to extend an invitation to anyone that would be interested in the treasurer’s position. Unitarian Universalists usually elect new officers in June to start in July, but my baby is due May 16th  – which does not fit this time frame. The Board would like the new treasurer to start early. I would like to be able to calmly show the new treasurer what I have done in the last four+ years and be able to help the new treasurer understand the system I have been using.  If we wait to long I will not have the patience, time, or alertness to pass on the torch the way it deserves to be passed on.  Please let one of the board members know if you are interested. Thank you in advance for giving your time to the church.

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Social Action Activities

Break Bread Together

Our date for meal deliveries with the Break Bread Together program is the 2^nd Monday of each month.  If you can deliver meals on this day beginning about 11:00 AM, please contact Virginia Branan.

Newsletter Staff

Editor:  Betty Derrick

Production/Mailing:  Sharon McKenzie Rowe, Charles Green

Website:  Carol Stiles

February 16: deadline for the March newsletter

Can anyone help Al out?  Al has adapted to Georgia so fast that he’s getting a bulldog puppy!  He’s looking for a used dog crate/kennel to buy for the puppy to sleep in at night?  Let him know if you can help him.

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UU Activities and Announcements

 Further information is posted on the bulletin board at the church.

Feb. 15 – Green Sanctuary Conference Unitarian Universalist Congregation of Atlanta

Jan. 31-Feb.2 Dinner and a Movie, The Mountain

Hue Jacobs has agreed to take over as the new Mountain Representative.  Betty Derrick has been serving in this capacity.  The Mountain is a long trip for us from Valdosta, but if you’ve never been there plan to go some time.  There are many interesting programs year round and if space allows you can just stay there on your own.  The UU camp and conference center is located near Highlands, NC.

Check with a member of the Board about Florida District Activities for February and March.

[Webnote:  The following district activities were obtained from the Florida District website - click here to check for updates and check the bulletin boards at the church for more details.]

February
2 Ft. Myers Lecture Series Ft. Myers
8 Social Justice Conference Orlando (FUCO)
9 Solutions for the 21st Century Ft. Myers
15 Southwest Cluster Spring Meeting Venice
15 Green Sanctuary Conference Atlanta, GA
16 Installation of Rev. Gail Geisenhainer Vero Beach
16 From Bach to Broadway Ft. Myers
23 Ft. Myers Lecture Series Ft. Myers

Please note - Rev. Mary C. Higgins will be on sabbatical from March 1, 2003 to June 30, 2003

March
16 Ft. Myers Lecture Series Ft. Myers
22 Building Covenant Groups, Living Tradition Council and Northeast Cluster Workshop Rockledge
22 Ft. Myers Lecture Series Ft. Myers
23 New Artists Piano Quartet Ft. Myers
28-30 YRUU Southeast Region CON TBA
30 Installation of Rev. Carole Yorke Odessa

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At the Church-in-the-Woods

Tai Chi – Monday and Thursday Evenings.  6:00 PM.  Beginner’s Group taught by Eric Nielsen Saturday, 10-12 AM.   Contact Dennis Bogyo.

New Hope Christian Fellowship - Sunday evenings: Choir practice at 5:00 PM. Service at 6:00 PM.  New Hope Christian Fellowship is a gay affirming church that upholds Christian Values. We want to make everyone that enters our doors feel like they are home.  The pastor of New Hope Christian Fellowship, the advisory board, and the charter members, cordially invite you to attend our first service on Sunday, February 2, 2003.  We will have a covered dish dinner immediately following the service. If you have any questions, you may call New Hope at 1-877-388-1081or by email at NewHopeChristianFellowship@hotmail.com.