EverGreene
Reverend Elizabeth Greene
Writing from Pickett-Eliot House in Boston, just behind Unitarian Universalist Association (UUA) headquarters at 25 Beacon Street, I wish everyone could have the chance to visit this great city.
I am on the UUA national board, so I visit Boston three times a year. Sometimes, even after four years, I say to myself, "Elizabeth, you are sooo not in Boise anymore." The buildings look different, especially on Beacon Hill; there is Revolutionary War reminder everywhere; and EVERYBODY has heard of Unitarian Universalism.
Speaking of such things. You may not get to Boston (or at least not very often) but you could get to our Association's General Assembly (GA) in Salt Lake City this June 24-28. GA is held in a different city every year, and it is seldom as close to us as this.
GA is always an eye-opener to people who attend for the first time, because of the amazing array of workshops, UUs from all over the world, our lively and gifted moderator, Gini Courter, and all kinds of opportunities for learning.
Think about it! When will you have another chance like this? Just go uua.org and all will be revealed!
When GA was in Portland, OR, about three years ago, we had a great turnout from our church. How about we beat that record?
President's Message
Sue Philley
What a year of accomplishments! We have new By-laws and a Strategic Plan to support our Vision and Mission—ready for congregational approval!
And many BUUF members and friends have attended meetings and shared ideas on how to best implement a Capital Campaign next year!
There are compelling reasons to reduce our debt. In July 2010, our annual payments to debt service will be $73,632 per year. After a Capital Campaign to reduce our debit, we could save $250,000 in interest payments of the years and free up operating funds for programs, staff and outreach.
Such a campaign would be congregation-wide, enabling both prior capital donors and those who haven't yet contributed, to make three-year commitments.
Larry Wheeler, our UUA consultant, has voiced his faith in us being able to raise approximately $600,000 in a well thought out campaign even in a tough economic climate, if we are clear on how it will fit into our Vision and Mission.
If a Capital Campaign is approved at the Annual Meeting May 17, a Planning Team will form to work with Larry and to seek congregational input in upcoming months on how to incorporate goals from our Strategic Plan into the Campaign. Please vote "yes" AND volunteer to join the Team. Help design an exciting plan that strengthens BUUF— lifting hearts, broadening minds, and honoring the interconnected web of life!
"The Slate"
Valerie Duffy
As this goes to press, The Nominating Committee continues its quest to find the most qualified candidates to fill the slate of BUUF members to serve on our Board. The following candidates will be considered for these positions:
Miriam Wioto, filling the general Board member position due to expire June, 2011
Janet Wyke, filling the general Board member position due to expire June, 2011
Cathy Carmen, Nominating Committee member 2009-2012
We have not finalized the candidates for vice-president and treasurer at this time. We will update the Fellowship when we do.
Nominations from the general membership for any of the open positions can be submitted to a member of the Board by May 7, 2009.
The U.S. Congregational Life Survey
Our congregation has been selected to participate in the largest and most representative survey of worshipers ever conducted in the United States. Our responses will be combined with those of worshipers in many other congregations to provide an accurate picture of worshipers in the United States.
The survey will be distributed during the worship service on May 3. There will be time set aside at the end of the service for worshipers to fill out the survey, which takes about 15 minutes to complete. Every worshiper who is at least fifteen years old should take part in the survey.
Our congregation will receive a summary of the responses of our worshipers. The summary will provide a profile showing who we are, our religious backgrounds, and our involvement in the congregation's activities and ministries. In addition, we'll see how our responses compare to a national picture of all congregations. If you would like to learn more about the survey you can visit www.USCongregations.org.
RELIGIOUS EXPLORATION
Musings from our Wondrous Wing
Emmie Schlobohm, Director of Religious Exploration
As the regular church year winds down, it always seems like the activity ramps up for that final blast right into summer. Our community is a happening place and your Religious Exploration program is no exception! With the merriment of the Easter Egg Hunt on April 12 all the way through to our final flower communion intergenerational service on June 7, the spring fun never stops! Experience wonder and awe as our youth are spotlighted in the Bridging Ceremony and our Coming of Age service. We'll be showing our teachers how much we love and appreciate them on May 17 with a special pre-Sunday worship service breakfast and a special recognition during the service. Join us for some fun and games for all ages on Games Day on May 24! Throughout the month of May and beyond, be a part of the magic that is your Boise UU Fellowship's Religious Exploration Program!
The possibilities for tomorrow are far greater than our expectations. Expect the possibilities. -unknown
Help the Boston Bounders Raise That Final $1,000!
This month's edition of BUUFworks! features coming fundraisers: the May 2 Chili and Cornbread Cookoff, and a May 16 carwash.
Preschool Potluck Brunch
Join other families with preschool-aged children for a community-building family friendly potluck brunch graciously hosted by Sue and Mike Philley on May 31. Food and fun will be had by all, starting at 12:30. Please contact Emmie Schlobohm at 658-1710 with questions, for more details and to tell us you'll be there.
Game Day – May 24
The weather is beautiful! Our grounds are delightful! Let's go out and play! On May 24, your young people's RE program would like to invite you to come out and play with us. During our two services, our young people will be out on the grounds for our traditional Game Day led by guides, advisors, and youth. After both services, everyone will be invited to join in the fun and play some games out in the fresh air!
... Where Children are Wise and Adults Can Play
Our young people are a miraculous bunch! They bring smiles, laughter, and joy to us all every week. If you haven't spent time in one of our Religious Exploration classrooms, you're truly missing out on a whole lot of fun, wonder and awe. Your RE program is looking for teams of guides and advisors to lead and follow our youth through the next year of explorations, discoveries and transformations. If you would like to join in on the phenomenon that is RE, please contact Emmie Schlobohm, Director of Religious Exploration at 658-1710 to find out more about teaching in our classrooms - nursery through high school.
Summer RE Coordinator Needed – Application Deadline Extended!
Summer brings a different look to Religious Exploration for children currently in preschool through sixth grade. Starting June 14, children entering kindergarten through sixth grade will meet together and enjoy a curriculum based on the stories and lessons of Dr Seuss, while the preschoolers will enjoy their own special program. The Religious Exploration program is looking for two individuals to hire to coordinate these two programs. The coordinators' primary responsibilities include scheduling and confirming volunteers, obtaining necessary class supplies and facilitating the chalice lighting and opening ritual for each Sunday during the summer. If you are interested in learning more about these positions, please contact Emmie Schlobohm, Director of Religious Exploration, at 658-1710 by May 17.
COMMITTEES
A Place for You
The Strategic plan is ready for your vote, the bylaws are updated and legal, and the organizational chart has been worked and reworked. BUUF is becoming organized!
We are an inclusive religious community; that includes you. To be a thriving community we need everyone to be involved and committed. It is time for everyone to find a "place in the choir." There are 5 new committees, can you help??
Participation Committee
This committee will look at how BUUFers are involved and active in the
fellowship. The committee will publish what each gathered group does in the
congregation and "Want ads" that will highlight the volunteer and involvement
opportunities available in the fellowship.
Internal Communications Committee
This committee is in charge of communications to the members and friends of
BUUF. They will establish guidelines for those who want to communicate with the
congregation.
Publicity and Public Relations Committee
This committee will be in charge of providing a consistent image of BUUF to
the public. They will sponsor information booths and create posters about BUUF.
The committee will create guidelines for groups within BUUF who wish to give
information about BUUF to the public.
Committee for Festivities
This committee will be in charge of whole church gatherings designed to
enrich our sense of community through entertaining events.
Hospitality and Food Committee
This committee will be in charge of Sunday morning coffee and other
hospitality related activities.
Please contact Miriam Woito at or 890 6074 to sign up!
Should We Make Changes?
Wanda Jennings
The Worship Committee will be looking at the things we do on Sunday mornings and the order in which we do them. Should we do the offering before the sermon? Where should the music come in the service? What changes should we make in our Worship Services to make them more worshipful? If you have any ideas about these things, please let Wanda Jennings know @ 362-7563 or . You might also want to join the Worship Committee (also called the Sunday Services Committee) and help us plan the Sunday Services. We meet on the second Thursday of each month.
Let's Plan More Social Fun
Did you have fun at the Hoedown? This was a multigenerational social activity planned to help us build community at BUUF. If you would like to help us plan some social activities, from bowling and movies to dances and parties, please step right up and give us your ideas. Contact Wanda Jennings @ 362-7563 or .
SOCIAL ACTION
Valley Family Health Care
Rick Groff
Twenty-five percent of the non-designated plate offering and 100% of checks that are marked "outreach" in the memo field will go to Valley Family Health Care during May. Valley Family Health Care offers accessible, quality, comprehensive health and social services to all people in the upper Treasure Valley area regardless of ability to pay. There are six medical clinics including one where our friend Katy Farrell practices in New Plymouth. There are also three dental clinics.
Last year, Valley Health Care had nearly 50,000 visits from over 14,000 patients of all backgrounds, income levels, and ethnicities. While Valley Family Health Care accepts patients with health insurance, 45 percent of its patients are uninsured. It offers care for acute and chronic conditions, preventive medical/dental care, prenatal care and delivery, family planning, diabetic care management, immunizations, minor surgery, etc.
If you would like to nominate a cause for consideration as a future recipient for the monthly social justice outreach offering, contact Nancy Rice at 484-4303.
Social Justice springs forth May Fourth!
May 4 marks the next important step in BUUF's journey toward greater impact in social justice. On this Monday evening at 7 pm, we will begin to fulfill the goals set forth at our Social Justice Workshop in February.
These new first-Monday meetings will begin with a gathering of all people interested in social justice work at BUUF. Following a brief introduction, we will divide into groups focusing on our three main areas of attention: Green Sanctuary (Environmental Rights), Welcoming Committee (Human Rights) and Hunger (Economic Rights). After these break-out sessions, everyone will reassemble to brief the rest of the group on planned activities.
These first-Monday meetings are the result of work done over the past two months by Rick Groff and Nancy Rice, who have been compiling feedback from the Social Justice Empowerment Workshop and talking with others about how the Social Justice Committee could be reconfigured. They've also been researching hunger issues and needs in Boise, and how they relate to our key goal of decreasing hunger in the Treasure Valley.
Join us on Monday, May 4, as we take the next steps on BUUF's journey toward making social justice real in our congregation and our communities.
Thank You
Rick Groff
May 31 marks the end of my tenure as chair of the Social Action team and it has been quite a ride. Through the social justice plate offering, I have learned about many social justice organizations that I previously didn't know existed. I also learned about all the social justice work that individuals in our congregation perform in the community on a personal level.
The Social Action team has been very active over the past three years and it has been extremely gratifying to me. Our Social Action team has completed a number of projects and we could not have accomplished them without the time and effort of many people—thanks all of you! I have made many new personal friends and value each one.
I believe that we each have an obligation to work for a just society. The great news is that working for social justice enriches the lives of those performing it as much as it does the lives of beneficiaries.
I won't be the leader. However, I will still be involved with our congregation in creating a more just society and forming new relationships. I want to be a part of our social justice program as we transform it to have a greater impact on our community and involve more people at the Boise Unitarian Universalist Fellowship. Social Action
BUUF ACTIVITIES & EVENTS
Ministry Lunches
Would you like a little time for casual chat with our minister, Elizabeth Greene? Here's How: the Committee on Ministry sponsors two no-host lunches a month, to which everyone is invited. There is no agenda—you bring your ideas, questions, sharing, or whatever and Elizabeth is there as part of a convivial luncheon gathering. May times:
Tuesday, May 5, 11:30 am, International Chinese, Glenwood near Chinden
Friday, May 15, 11:30 am, URS cafeteria (previously Washington Group, even more previously Morrison-Knutson), 1750 Front; cross Broadway from eastbound Connector, enter doors behind fountain
Join us!
Really Big Bang, May 10
Jeanette Ross
Just for fun, and as evidence of our inclusiveness, BUUF Humanists will provide space for both God and the greatest cosmic event of all time at our May 10 program. Loren Bergeson has had a transformative experience that he wants to share as he reviews two books, The Death of the Mythic God, the Rise of Evolutionary Spirituality, by Jim Marion, and Thank God for Evolution, How the Marriage of Science and Religion Will Transform Your Life and Our World, by Michael Dowd and Connie Barlow.
Not only does the second book live up to the hype on the cover, in Loren's opinion— it has also sparked an interest in religious education classes all across our denomination (and was featured in the Spring 2006 UU World magazine).
We meet during the 11am service, second Sunday of each month, in the BUUF library. Dowd and Barlow's book is available in our book nook, in anticipation of the authors' visit to BUUF this coming September. Those wishing to join our email reminder list or desirous of more information may contact Rick Groff or Jeanette Ross.
Sage in Spring
Tom von Alten
If April showers bring May flowers, what do May flowers bring? The BUUF Senior Sages, meeting twice-monthly at the Kopper Kitchen (2661 Airport Way), that's what! We meet the 2nd and 4th Thursdays, as regular as spring, 9:30am for a no-host breakfast and an interesting conversation.
Cal Peterson will explore the topic of William Shakespeare, the person, on May 14, and on May 28, Lyn McCollum will talk about the Boise Peace Quilt project and her experience stitching together a more peaceful world.
Join us! No reservation needed, and we don't check ID. Call Tom von Alten at 378-1217 for more information.
Mother's Day Tea
Plan to attend the Mother's Day Tea on May 10, in The Courtyard immediately after each service. The Landscape Committee once again is planning to celebrate mothers everywhere with a traditional English Tea featuring tea sandwiches, savories, fruit tarts and petit fours. And this year it WILL happen! The cost is $5.00 per person with a maximum of $20.00 for a family. We'd like this to be a lovely annual tradition to enhance and complement whatever plans folks have for this special day. Tickets must be purchased prior to the Tea and will be available for purchase near the Book Nook Sundays, through May 3. All proceeds go towards bike racks for BUUF!
Tales From the Grandmother Tree
will be coming to BUUF on Saturday, May 16, starting at 2 pm! The Landscape Committee is delighted to welcome the Treasure Valley Storytellers with their special talents to intrigue kids of all ages with tales of the creatures that might be found right here on our very own grounds. This magical experience will take listeners on a wonderful journey through The Grove, over The Bridge, around Jeremiah's Adventure Garden, and the Play House, each stop rewarded with a special story. The event is free and open to the community, so tell friends and neighbors. We ask that parents accompany their small children. This is a not-to-be-missed opportunity for fun, learning and adventure. The Grandmother Tree is looking forward to seeing all her friends!
High Octane
Mary Cecilia Smith will present "High Octane" at the annual meeting of the Funeral Consumers Alliance of Idaho, Saturday, May 16, 2008 at 12:30pm at the Library! at Collister, 4724 W State Street. Many people, including Picasso, Pablo Casals, Arthur Rubenstein, and Linus Pauling, did extraordinary things in their nineties. Come for a chance to be reinvigorated and inspired by what's possible.
There will be a question and answer session, and refreshments will be served. The meeting is open to the public and is free of charge.
Founded by BUUF members and friends as the Idaho Memorial Association in 1972, the Funeral Consumers Alliance of Idaho is a non-profit corporation working to protect the right of individuals to chose simple, dignified, and economical funeral arrangements for themselves and their families. The FCAI is an affiliate of the national Funeral Consumers Alliance.
Happy 80th Birthday, Warren Bean!
Happy Birthday, Warren Bean,
The likes of you we've never seen.
Our steward grand, you lend a hand,
Rough, tough, no cream puff,
Steadfast, unsurpassed,
Warren Bean, you're on the scene,
You keep going, ever knowing,
You're our man, yes, you can,
You're a codger, no work dodger,
With your gifts, our hearts uplift!
Our thanks to you, you are BUUF's glue!
Wanda Jennings
April, 2009
An Ancient Sacred Ritual, a 21st Century Opportunity: Our Labyrinth
BUUF's Labyrinth exists because Carol & Jay Wechselberger have loved labyrinths for a long time and wanted our Fellowship to have the opportunity to experience what they discovered. Their vision and leadership lead to dedicated working group which convened and crafted the Classical Labyrinth we now enjoy. A future sanctuary is envisioned on the site of the Labyrinth which now creates a "sacred space" in preparation.
Labyrinths have been around for millennia. They are linked to mandalas, Sanskrit for 'Circle that contains the Essence'. Like mandalas, labyrinths are archetypal collective symbols that transcend all cultures. Native Americans have their Medicine Wheel, the Celts have the Never Ending Circle, and mystical Judaism refers to the Kabala.
There is no 'right' way to walk a labyrinth. You have only to enter and follow the path. However, your walk can encompass a variety of attitudes. It may be joyous or somber, thoughtful or prayerful, it can be a 'walking meditation.' As a unicursal (one way in, one way out) path, a labyrinth is showing and teaching centeredness. Adults are often serious in the labyrinth, children romp in and out as fast as they can in a playful manner. Consider choosing your attitude when you walk the labyrinth. Make it prayerful, a refuge from daily concerns, deeply spiritual, or a joyful journey, be alone or with others, experience the sounds and scents of the natural world; be in the Now whatever you choose.
While most of us probably view labyrinths as spiritual, the physiological effects of labyrinths are being explored. In the more intricate designs, there are as many right turns as left turns and navigating such a labyrinth is part of the recovery program for people with brain injuries, such as strokes. It has proven helpful in certain mental illnesses. Hospitals are also installing labyrinths as spiritual and physical assistance to patients and their loved ones. Likewise, many places of worship include labyrinths as part of their exploration of the sacred.
BUUF's Labyrinth is made of stones collected and placed by many people; that in itself is symbolic. It is a feature that has great appeal to the many different events or organizations that use our facilities. As the Labyrinth matures, improvements are being made to make it easier for all to navigate. Informational brochures will be available. But most important, get to know the Labyrinth. Make it part of your life at BUUF. Introduce it family members and friends—Share the Experience
If you would like to be part of the team that tends to the Labyrinth, call the Wechselbergers, 336-0179 or contact .
Movie Time
"America's Heart and Soul"
"It makes you want to cheer out loud."
"A heartfelt and soulful triumph!"
These are critics' words of praise for the movie "America's Heart and Soul," the true journey of ordinary people living extraordinary lives as they follow their dreams with a spirit that is uniquely American. A Disney film rated PG, it is director Louis Schwartzberg's inspiring mosaic of life that, in spite of all the bad news of late, will make you proud that you live in this unique land.
Bring the family and join us on Sunday, May 24th at 6:00 pm. It's a great way to celebrate Memorial Day weekend, with no school the next day, so bring some popcorn and share a relaxing evening with BUUF friends.
PNWD & UUA
UUA General Assembly, A Meeting of Congregations
June 24-28, 2009, Salt Lake City, Utah
General Assembly (GA) is the annual meeting of the Unitarian Universalist Association of Congregations. General Assemblies shall make overall policy for carrying out the purposes of the Association and shall direct and control its affairs. Plus they have many interesting, challenging, educational, and spiritual programs. You will be amazed by how wonderful GA is and how it will change your life. You could even be a delegate representing the Boise Unitrarian Universalist Fellowship!
This is the closest General Assembly will be to Boise, so this is your chance to attend this exciting event with Unitarian Universalists from around the world. Visit uua.org for more information.
WIDER COMMUNITY
LIVING IN THE FIRE OF CHANGE: Sacred Activism and Social Transformation
June 12 & 13, 2009, Egyptian Theatre, Boise, Idaho
Join a conference and community forum with James O'Dea, Andrew Harvey, Barbara Marx Hubbard, Sequoyah Trueblood, and local leaders and activists working for social transformation. A portion of the proceeds will be donated to Sustainable Futures, a local organization educating women from the East Boise Work Release Center in Green Jobs and helping to address the issue of glass waste by recycling glass into reusable wares.
Please contact Mali Leach for more information and registration questions ( ).
