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Minnesota Valley Unitarian Universalist Fellowship A liberal religious congregation in the Minneapolis area If the Menu on the Left Hasn't Appeared |
| SERVICES SCHEDULE 2007-2008 Home | Calendar Updated August 21 2008 |
We launch a new church year with the traditional Water Communion ceremony, also known as Water Celebration, Gathering of the Waters, or Making a Big Splash. Visitors, members and friends of all ages are invited to bring small samples of water representing your summer activities, whether here at home or in far-off travels. We mention briefly where the water is from or what it represents, and pour it into a common vessel to signify our coming together. Our interim minister speaks on the gift of religious community, especially during times of change. Even if this is your first time here, welcome home! This is an Intergenerational Sunday so the children will join the adults; however, the usual nursery care will be available. Sunday, September 16, 2007, 10:30 AM The Rev. Roger Jones, Interim Minister "What Kind of Forgiveness?" The Jewish High Holy Days this year go from September 12 to 22, starting with Rosh Hashanah for the Jewish year 5768 and ending with Yom Kippur, the Day of Atonement. Roger reflects on themes of hurt, healing, letting go, and maybe even forgiveness. Those wishing to offer personal responses to the sermon are invited to meet in the Fireside Room from 12:15-1:00. The service will be followed by the dedication of the Welcoming Congregation sign at 11:45 AM. Children start the morning in the sanctuary before departing for classes so all ages may conduct a ritual to set apart this year of interim ministry with Roger Jones. Sunday, September 23, 2007, 10:30 AM Anne Peek "Islands of Peace" Can we create world peace when our daily lives are full of stress and conflict? If it is true that "what we resist persists," how might we be contributing to the conflict in our lives? Aside from traditional meditation, how might we become islands of peace for each other--and ourselves? Anne Peek has been a member of MVUUF for 14 years. A former attorney, she teaches a graduate course on the energy of conflict resolution at St. Mary's Univiversity of Minnesota. Sunday, September 30, 2007, 10:30 AM The Rev. Roger Jones, Interim Minister Leadership and Governance: Shared Authority, Shared Anxiety This is a year of big changes: governance by a Board of Trustees, ministerial leadership by an interim pastor, and congregation-wide work of reflecting on the church’s past and envisioning its future service to members, visitors and the wider community. What does “leadership” mean in these times? What does it mean in church life? Today’s sermon draws from the fascinating book Leadership without Easy Answers.
Experience and discover the power of the breath as taught by the Art of Living Foundation, a Non-Governmental Organization working with the Economic and Social Council of the United Nations, participating in educational programs relating to health and conflict resolution. Siva and Divya Kanchibhotla are certified instructors and have been with the Art of Living Foundation for over 7 years. They conduct Art of Living workshops for both youth and adults, aimed at stress management, empowerment and enhancing well-being. In 2005, Divya also led the Foundation's trauma relief effort in Houston, Texas in the aftermath of Hurricane Katrina. Divya holds a B.S. and M.S. in Biochemical Engineering and Masters in Human genetics. She currently works a Senior Scientist with Boston Scientific in Maple Grove. Siva holds a B.S in Mechanical Engineering and a MBA from University of Houston. He works as a Senior Lead Analyst for Fairview Heath Services, Minneapolis. They have been married for almost 2 years and live in Maple Grove, MN Fireside chat after the service. Sunday, October 14, 2007, 10:30 AM The Rev. Roger Jones, Interim Minister “Is this Uncommon Denomination a Real Religion? Does It Matter?” A Service for UU Association Sunday Heck yes, it matters. Come find out why! With special music and preaching today we honor the 1,000 Unitarian Universalist congregations, all of which sustain one another through our denominational community. We take a special offering today to raise money for diversity, advertising and outreach programs of the UUA. Children start the morning in the sanctuary before departing for classes. Sunday, October 21, 2007, 10:30 AM Maragarita Mac, The Center for Nonviolent Communication "Living Peace through Compassionate Communication" We will explore Nonviolent Communication (NVC) which comes from the work of Marshall Rosenberg. NVC offers a practical model for communication which supports a consciousness of seeing the humanity of every person and seeing the striving to enrich life behind every action and word no matter how tragically it is expressed. From this consciousness, natural compassion arises and we can live, speak and listen from a place of peace and mutual empowerment. Fireside chat after the service. Sunday, October 28, 2007, 10:30 AM The Rev. Roger Jones, Interim Minister “Let the Dead Bury the Dead: Supernaturalism, Spiritualism, Spirituality, and Us” Boo! In the Celtic neo-pagan tradition of Samhain, the Mexican observance of el dia de los muertos and the Christian All Souls Day (from which we get All Hallows’ Eve), this is the time of year when the veil between this world and the next is the thinnest. Does this have anything to do with the renewed interest of liberal congregations and members on practicing spiritual disciplines, describing their spiritual experiences, and finding power in the poetry of religious language? Come find out . . . if you dare.
Janis Lane-Ewart will describe how public access to radio can serve to promote better understanding and communication across cultures and serve the role of social action; thereby becoming an active tool towards building and sustaining peace amongst people. Fireside chat after the service. Remember to set your clocks back one hour Saturday night or you will be very early to church. Enjoy the extra hour of sleep; you’ll need it come March 9! Sunday, November 11, 2007, 10:30 AM The Rev. Roger Jones, Interim Minister “Heresy and Tradition,” A reflection on UU heritage, identity, theological diversity and the principle of covenant. (This sermon title is not the same as published earlier.) Question for reflection: If you got on an elevator on the 17th floor of a building and someone asked you about your church, what would you say. Imagine you said: Unitarian Universalist and they said: “Tell me about that.” Then, how would you describe this religious movement… in the time it takes for the elevator to get to the first floor. (Or, imagine that a neighbor asked you this at a BBQ, and you had a bit less pressure.) We will begin this service (on Nov. 11, Armistice Day, now called Veterans Day) by recognizing all those who have served in military forces or adjunct supportive services and by hearing a roll call of the dead, followed by Taps. Please refrain from applause but do give your thanks to bugler Todd Hayen after the service. In addition, we have two choral works with flutes and a lovely Mozart piece by Sonja Johnston. Sorry about the title and topic change. If you were looking forward to hearing about “faith,” let Kathy Allen or me know. If you have thoughts or stories about the topic, let either of us know. There are plenty of Sundays left in my contract here! Sunday, November 18, 2007, 10:30 AM .The Rev. Roger Jones, Interim Minister "Prayers of an Agnostic" Is it useful to express gratitude even if there’s no divine audience to hear you? What about sorrow, anger or hope? Roger invites us to think about alternative meanings of the P-word on this Sunday before Thanksgiving, and explains the openness given to us by the progressive field of “process theology.” Your advance reflections and input are welcome! Fireside Chat at Noon in the Fireside Room. Sunday, November 25, 2007, 10:30 AM Members of MVUUF "My Religious Journey" Three members of MVUUF will share their feelings about being a Unitarian Universalist; how they came to be here and what it means to them
Hurry up! Only 23 days to liftoff! Do you feel as if you are on a holiday treadmill every year? Consumerism, crowds, over-eating, and more festivities than you can shake a candy cane at. Many people feel they have little choice but to stay on the machine or risk being a Grinch. Are there alternate plans, rituals or ways to talk with family and friends to prepare for a season with less stress and more joy? (Sermon input welcome!) New Member Ingathering during the service. Fireside Chat at Noon Sunday, December 9, 2007, 10:30 AM Mariam E. Cameron, PhD., M.S., M.A., R.N "How to Be Happy! Tibetan Medicine 101" Dr. Cameron is a member of the Graduate Faculty of the Center for Spirituality and Healing at the University of Minnesota. She will talk about how to be happy from the perspective of Tibetan Medicine, the ancient, yet timely spiritual medicine of Tibet. She will discuss karma, suffering, healing and happiness and how these teachings help us to heal from the source and develop health through balance. Fireside chat after the service. Sunday, December 16, 2007, 10:30 AM Sonja Johnston, Minister of Music Music Sunday Join the members of the congregation as they make music for one another. Great music, some laughs, and a few surprises! All ages in the congregation are invited to perform; see Sonja early to get on the program. This is an Intergenerational Sunday so the children will join the adults; however, the usual nursery care will be available. Sunday, December 23, 2007, 10:30 AM The Rev. Roger Jones, Interim Minister "Other People’s Miracles" Dec. 12 was the Mexican religious holiday of Our Lady of Guadalupe. The Virgin’s appearance to the peasant Juan Diego in 1531 led to a winter miracle. Her story and her shrine still comfort and inspire millions of people. What’s a miracle for you? Monday, December 24, 2007, 5:00 PM The Rev. Roger Jones, Interim Minister; Sonja Johnston, Minister of Music Christmas Eve Candlelight Service:“And Now, a Word from Our Shepherds” The service will last no more than an hour and will feature Christmas hymns and carols, special music, readings and a spoken reflection by our minister. Thanks to our Minister of Music and other musicians and our readers for this service. The service is somewhat different from what you may have experienced here before and is based loosely on the service of “Nine Lessons and Carols,” but we’ll have only three readings. We will end by sharing the light of our individual candles and singing “Silent Night.” People of all ages and religious orientations are welcome The Board of Trustees has authorized the selection of a recipient organization for our year Christmas Eve Outreach Offerings, and for 2007 the Social Justice Leadership Team has chosen Bridging Inc. , an important not-for-profit agency for area families in crisis and transition. Sunday, December 30, 2007 , 10:30 AM Winter Solstice Celebration/Ritual Winter officially begins December 22 with the Winter Solstice, and MVUUF will celebrate it and coax the sun back to the North during our Sunday worship service on December 30. It’s a service for all ages inspired by pre-Christian spiritual traditions and the seventh source of our Unitarian Universalist tradition. This is an Intergenerational Sunday so the children will join the adults; however, the usual nursery care will be available.
This is the first of a 2008 series of sermons on “Sources of our Living Tradition”. Many Unitarians and some Universalists were among the signers of the Humanist Manifesto in 1933. Let’s learn how religious humanism started and where it went. Sunday, January 13, 2008, 10:30 AM Tony Signorelli "Call to Liberty: Bridging the Divide Between Liberals and Conservatives" Tony brings a unique expertise in systems thinking to politics, organizational development, and problems of all kinds. From healing the American body politic to dealing with political diversity in institutions, to improving productivity in corporations, his expertise offers fresh perspectives and creative solutions. Sunday, January 20, 2008, 10:30 AM The Rev. Roger Jones, Interim Minister “Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.--Affliction and Comfort” One of the sources of our tradition includes “words and deeds of prophetic women and men which challenge us to confront powers and structures of evil” with justice, compassion and love. Today we remember a modern social prophet. In solidarity, we sing his favorite Gospel hymn. Sunday, January 27, 2008, 10:30 AM Ms. Barbara Hubbard, Guest Preacher, Barb Gilliand and Rev. Roger Jones, Worship Leaders “Unleashing Ministry—Yours!” What is “shared ministry” and what does it look like? It is the creative practice of partnership among ordained ministers, professional staff, and volunteer leaders of a congregation. Barbara grew up in Bloomington as a Methodist preacher’s kid. She has been on staff of Unity Unitarian Church in St. Paul for 10 years--through three different styles of professional ministry! As Director of Administration she serves on its executive team, and works with staff, lay leaders and ministers. Come hear stories of the church’s growth into a source of transformation for its members and the wider community. Fireside chat in the Sanctuary with Our Guest: The Settled Ministry Search Committee and Interim Minister are co-hosts for this discussion time with Barbara Hubbard, 11:45-12:45 PM. Child care will be provided.
The fourth principle of the Unitarian Universalist Association is “the right of conscience and the use of the democratic process” in our congregations and the larger society. The U. S. Constitution prohibits religious tests for office holders. Do you think we have political tests for church members to be accepted and respected? Sunday, February 10, 2008, 10:30 AM Stephen Polasky "Finding Socially Just Solutions to Global Warming" Stephen Polasky is Fesler Lampert Professor of Ecological/ Environmental Economics at the University of Minnesota. He is a technical advisor to Minnesota’s Climate Change Advisory Committee. He will highlight some of the important policy options for addressing climate change and help us understand the economic and social consequences of these decisions. Fireside chat after the service. Second Sunday special collection for United Nations Population Fund (a Flash presentation). Sunday, February 17, 2008, 10:30 AM The Rev. Roger Jones, Interim Minister “Money and the Meaning of Life: How Much Is Enough?” Money is a medium of exchange, a store of value, and a source of anxiety in the U.S. What attitudes about money did you grow up with? What are your attitudes now? For many people it is a distraction from spiritual needs, but philosopher Joseph Neeleman says our relationship to money can be a source of spiritual insight and healing. Sunday, February 24, 2008, 10:30 AM High School Youth Service The High School youth present what they've learned during the year, and sometimes challenge the adults' thinking. This is always an interesting service.
Recollections and Dreams of Your Ministry” Today members conclude weeks of discussion and vote on the question of full-time professional ministry. Since my arrival, I’ve listened to remembrances of rough patches and times of triumph, stories of personal transformation, words of anxiety during change, and dreams for the future. Come hear an outsider’s impressions of this church’s heritage of shared ministry. Sunday, March 9, 2008, 10:30 AM Mike Tikkanen “The Impact of Abuse and Abandonment on Children and Communities” Mike Tikkanen is a long time Hennepin County guardian ad-Litem, author, and founder of the non-profit group KARA (Kids at Risk – Action). Learn the key issues facing abused and neglected children, what programs and policies work to improve their lives, and how you can be a better advocate for at risk children. You can also read Mike's blog. Fireside chat after the service. Second Sunday special collection Spring Forward! Daylight Savings Time Begins, so set your clock ahead by an hour so you’re not late to church! Sunday, March 16, 2008, 10:30 AM Sonja Johnston, Minister of Music Music Sunday Join the members of the congregation as they make music for one another. Great music, some laughs, and a few surprises! All ages in the congregation are invited to perform; see Sonja to get on the program. This is an Intergenerational Sunday so the children will join the adults; however, the usual nursery care will be available. Sunday, March 23, 2008, Easter Sunday, 10:30 AM The Rev. Roger Jones, Interim Minister “Seeing the Real World through Easter Eyes” Practice resurrection! That’s what environmentalist and poet Wendell Berry’s “mad farmer” calls each of us to do, in our personal lives and in the world around us. Sunday, March 30, 2008, 10:30 AM The Rev. John Cummins “Ministerial Search—For Better, For Worse, but not Forever.” John is Minister Emeritus at First Universalist Church, Minneapolis where he served for 25 years. He has a distinguished career as a leader of congregations and as a colleague to many ministers in the UUA and has much experience in knowing the ingredients for fruitful ministerial relationships between congregations and settled ministers. Rev. Cummins was instrumental in encouraging the founding families to establish a congregation in Bloomington.. Fireside chat after the service.
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Even if April were not the month of the Fellowship’s pledge drive, the emerging springtime abundance of the Earth would make it the right time to consider generosity. Religious Humanism, Neo-Paganism, Buddhism and the Judeo-Christian tradition all have something to say. I’ll see how many I can cover in one sermon! New Member Ingathering during the service. Sunday, April 13, 2008, 10:30 AM Brenda Hartman, M.S.W., L.I.C.S.W "Healing and End of Life Issues" Description: Brenda is a consultant and public speaker on all aspects of healing. She also has a clinical therapy practice serving individuals, families and couples. She believes healing is an ongoing process through all stages of life including the dying process. She will share wisdom gained from her own life-threatening cancer experiences as well as from thousands of participants in her group programs. Fireside chat after the service. Sunday, April 20, 2008, 10:30 AM Martha Roberts, World Citizen, Inc. "Peace Education" Martha Roberts is a dynamic community peace educator teaching through World Citizens, Inc. Does the idea of peace education intrigue you? Do you sometimes wonder what exactly is peace education and how we know peace education works? Martha reveals what is unique about their vision of peace education. Fireside chat after the service. Sunday, April 27, 2008, 10:30 AM The Rev. Roger Jones, Interim Minister "Young Man Buddha’s Mindfulness Makeover" Some 2,500 years ago a rich kid in India left the palace to go find out about real life, and doing that changed him—and the world. This sermon about the founding truths of Buddhism is part of a series on the many spiritual sources of our UU tradition, including religions of the world. Let Roger know if you have a practice or have studied Buddhism.
Chuck Dayton, environmental attorney and long-time supporter of the environment led the fight in the 1970s to protect the Boundary Waters Wilderness Area. The Minnesota Chapter of the Sierra Club honored him with “Environmentalist of the Decade”. Governor Pawlenty recently appointed him to the Minnesota Climate Change Advisory Group. He currently serves as a board member for Congregations Caring for Creation and for the Minnesota Center for Environmental Advocacy. Fireside chat after the service. Sunday, May 11, 2008, 10:30 AM The Rev. Roger Jones, Interim Minister “Diva Julia”: The Mother of Mother’s Day Unitarian Julia Ward Howe organized a Mothers’ Day for Peace and wrote the words to The Battle Hymn of the Republic. She lived with public adoration but also in her own private agony. (This sermon topic comes from the generosity and inspiration of fundraising auction bidders and new members Nancy Loewen and Bill Balcziak.). Sunday, May 18, 2008, 10:30 AM The Rev. Roger Jones, Interim Minister Religious Education Sunday We will recognize our seniors who are moving on. There will be a short Children Chalice Lighters ceremony welcoming our new third and fourth grade chalice lighters. Each class prepares a delightful presentation about something the class learned this year. Come support our children and youth as they let you know a little more about themselves. Sunday, May 25, 2008, 10:30 AM The Rev. Roger Jones, Interim Minister “Render Unto Caesar”: What Do We Owe the American Empire? On Monday we will remember those who gave their lives in military service. All wars are horrific, and many have been necessary evils. Yet the United States has sent young adults to die in several wars and occupations whose purpose has been to maintain or extend U. S. imperial aims. What is the role of religious progressives and spiritual independents who live in (or under) an empire? It’s a question as old as the Bible.
Have you ever thought of how many ways the BGLT community is discriminated against that the heterosexual community is not? Come and listen to Luz Maria Davis from Project 515 to hear how unjust and discriminatory the laws or the lack of protections are for our BGLT friends, family and neighbors. There will be time for discussion during and after the service. Two high school students, Emma Martin- Burnsville High School and Aleksa Ballinger- Bloomington Jefferson, will speak about their schools' policies regarding BGLT clubs/ Gay Straight Alliances. Other resources: Thinking About California Sponsored by the Welcoming Congregation Committee Fireside chat after the service. Sunday, June 8, 2008, 10:30 AM The Rev. Roger Jones, Departing Interim Minister Cats, Collies, and Well-tended Gardens:An All-Ages Service with Flower Communion Ritual Bring a fresh flower to offer and take another one home with you as we observe this Czech Unitarian ritual. We begin the service with a child blessing and naming of Izabel Pearl Sinner, born February 15 to Judi and Michael. We hear final thoughts from (and say a formal goodbye to) our 2007-08 interim minister as he prepares to be the Family Minister for the UU Society of Sacramento. The annual MVUUF picnic follows the service. All welcome! (Note from Roger: This is the last full-service Sunday at MVUUF till September. Keep checking the website for summer activities, and reach out to other members and friends for connection, support and fun in the meantime.) This is an Intergenerational Sunday so the children will join the adults; however, the usual nursery care will be available.
Keep checking the website for MVUUF Summer Activities, and reach out to other members and friends for connection, support and fun in the meantime.
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