BUUF News – December 2012

Contents

EverGreene

President's Message

Transition

RELIGIOUS EXPLORATION

Harmonizing

Deck the Halls Rehearsal Schedule

Deck the Halls for both services!

December Dates to Remember

Boston Bounders – Christmas Shop A-coming

JUSTICE OUTREACH

StepUp is December's Plate Recipient

Social Justice Notes

Picnic in the Park

 

COMMITTEES

Program Ministry Council & You (being UU)!

From the Library Committee

Last Ministerial Luncheons With Elizabeth—Ever!

ACTIVITIES & EVENTS

Entering that Dark Place

Social Climber

Path to Membership Classes Offered

UUs for Justice in the Middle East (UUJME)

End of World Party! (and Discussion)

Yule and the Yuletide: Whats it all about?

Travel Group Resumes in January

The Other Book Club

WIDER COMMUNITY

Call for Workshop Proposals: UUA Regional Assembly

NEXT Newsletter Deadline...
Tuesday, December 11, 2012 at NOON

EverGreene

Rev. Elizabeth Greene

I'm thinking about the Star of Bethlehem today. And Winter Solstice. And how embracing, nurturing, sometimes-scary darkness brings new life and love and hope and faith.

As so many of you know by now, my family always went outside on Christmas Eve—after reading about Jesus' birth, and singing carols—and looked for "The Star." It didn't matter if it was raining, cloudy, bright, whatever; we found the brightest part of the sky, or the most-shining star, and we were happy about what it brought to us. (Then we went in and went to bed, so Santa could come, and that was good, too.)

Our church's deeply-important Winter Solstice service (always on the 21st) brings us to the same place of joy and hope, growing from the darkest time of the year. Like my family, our congregation goes into the darkness and reflects on it, then we "find" our light by kindling candles, creating a lovely blaze, illuminating the beloved faces of our community.

This season of nurturing darkness, I wish us all a slowing down. I wish us time and space to sit, reflect, pray, express gratitude. I wish us time to be with each other, genuinely and without barriers, knowing that the light of the world always returns.


President's Message: What You Told Us on November 3rd!

Judy Holcombe, President

Thanks to all who attended our "Celebration" event on November 3rd. The most popular activity was "Painting Aprons with Elizabeth". Seventy aprons were used in a happy, unstructured, and somewhat messy time with Elizabeth - reflecting our need just to enjoy her presence while we have her. The year ahead was highlighted by a colorful and again somewhat messy (confetti and streamers) "Parade of Celebrations." There will be many occasions in the coming year to celebrate our history and the excellent foundation Elizabeth has laid for us going forward into our future.

"Transition R Us" That's where we are right now, beginning with the first step of appointing an Interim Minister Task Force. Upon their recommendation, the hiring of the Interim minister will ultimately be the responsibility of the Board. The candidate for called minister must be approved by congregational vote of members. At whatever stage of the process, what you told us in our workshop sessions on "Traversing Transition", is your strong desire that your leadership keep you well informed – that we are transparent, trustworthy and consistent in informing you both of the process and what is currently happening.

Look for the poster in our vestibules showing the progress of the "You are Here" caterpillar to butterfly, the steps in the process of ministerial transition. Also look for a regular Transitions feature in our newsletter. Debra Smith, a member of the Interim Task Force will update you monthly as to our progress in the process. And of course you may talk to any of us – your Board and Members of the Interim Task Force.

How do you feel about "traversing transition"? The discussions drew out comments reflecting that there will be grief, loss, and anxiety in the departure of a beloved minister who has guided us for 25 years. However the prevailing feelings were expressed by such words as "excitement, gratitude, joy, adventurous, confidence, anticipation, curiosity, hopeful, and committed." It was acknowledged that it is the responsibility of each individual to participate in the bonding of fellowship, the strengthening of our identity, and financial stability. You want our leadership in this, and some other specifics - the acknowledgment of the past, seeking denominational support/connection, balancing the time devoted to the leave taking process, attracting young members, bringing RE kids into the transition process, and documenting our "interim learning."

We have heard you, and your BUUF leaders are committed. We will be with you every step of the way in keeping us a strong bonded community, to honor our traditions and the creating of some new ones going forward. Meantime, there is every day of now. It is our hope that with the serious business of navigating our future, we continue to share the spirit of fun and comradery - such as exhibited on November 3, and in all the planning and volunteer participation in the events of our celebration year ahead.

Transition

The Transition Task Force met for a third time on November 14, having met once to get acquainted, and a second time with Keith Kron, the UUA Director of Transitions, who spoke at our Fellowship in early November. Prior to our meeting, we assigned ourselves the task of reading the Unitarian Universalist Association's 45 page Transitional Ministry Handbook. Allie Gooding synthesized all of the activities into two checklists: one for the application, and one for the "marketing" packet we will give to prospective candidates. Each member of the Task Force took on areas of responsibility for compiling data; facilitating communications to and from the congregation; working with standing committees; and working with the Board. We are committed to using the resources that the UUA has made available to us as we navigate this lengthy and important process. We are committed to making this process open and transparent, and so you are encouraged to address any questions to any member of the task force:

For information on the criteria for the composition of the Task Force, please refer to President Judy Holcombe's November newsletter article. Please watch for regular updates in the BUUF newsletter, the orders of service, and the Thursday bulletin. We feel it is an honor to serve you, and we thank you for the trust that you have place in us.

Our next meeting is scheduled for December 6, 2012 at 7 p.m. at the Fellowship.

Religious Exploration

Harmonizing

Emmie Schlobohm, Director of Religious Exploration (DRE)

Standing in a popular coffee shop waiting for my order to be filled, I heard the strains of one of my all-time favorite songs. I found where the music could be heard over the typical noises of the espresso machine steaming and chugging. It was a dark corner, but the acoustics were surprisingly good and no one could see me grooving to the tight harmonies in the low light. I am transformed by music and well-executed harmonies, especially vocal harmonies.

Listening to this music and experiencing the depth of my feelings, I was inspired for one of my current projects. The RE Committee is in the midst of a significant re-visioning and re-vitalization and I suddenly realized that the good work done by the RE Committee is a harmony between creativity, collaboration and a sense of common purpose. It is also a symphony of different gifts and passions brought to bear on a challenge or opportunity for growth and enlightenment. This particular ministry involves deep listening, to each other and our own inner voices. We strive to meet ourselves and our fellow travelers where we truly are, in all senses of that phrase, so that the energy that drives Religious Exploration is positive, powerful, and sustaining. We take care of each other in this, our spiritual home, and work together to create the space where children, youth and adults alike can have "aha" moments and journey on their chosen path. We welcome all with whatever gifts, energies, and ideas they bring. Come join us in our new and exciting endeavor. I would love to talk with you over coffee or tea and beautiful heart-filling music and find out where you are and how you'd like to be with us on this journey.


Attention all Families in Religious Education! Deck the Halls Rehearsal Schedule is Here!

On Saturday, December 1, we will hold our mandatory and very important final rehearsal for our Deck the Halls extravaganza. Crafts and activities will be happening in the north wing class rooms from noon to 4:30 pm, so come play and create with us before and/or after your rehearsal! The following is the rehearsal schedule for the various classes. Please make sure you and your child(ren) are here for their scheduled time! Our dedicated guide/teachers, musicians, and Emmie will be here to guide this last chance to pull it all together. Rehearsals will be held in the sanctuary.

Noon – 1:30pm 9:30 service classes (Preschool-1st grade, 2nd and 3rd grades, 4th through 6th grades

1:30 – 2:30pm 11:15 service: Preschool; Kindergarten & 1st grade

2:30 – 3:30pm 11:15 service: 2nd & 3rd grades, 4th through 6th grades

3:30 – 4:30pm 11:15 service: Junior and Senior High


Deck the Halls for both services!

This is our third year of two Deck the Halls services. Our 9:30 and 11:15 Religious Exploration classes are preparing unique programs that will be different each service. The only overlap will be our junior high school and senior high school youth presentations and there are cookies involved! Come join us for both services and kick off your holiday season with our joyful version of merry mayhem!


December Dates to Remember

for Religious Exploration for Children and Youth

On Saturday, December 1 from 12:00-4:30, the merriment will commence with our RE rehearsal and "Deck the Halls" seasonal kick-off activities. Prepare to celebrate "Wintergreene Holidays"! Everyone, whether you have children in RE or not, is invited to join in the fun for all ages with decking the halls, craft and ornament making, singing and fellowship! All of our Religious Exploration classes will have their final rehearsal on Saturday afternoon. See below for specific rehearsal schedule. Would you like to help make this all happen? Please call Emmie at 658-1710.

On Sunday, December 2, we will have two services, at 9:30 and 11:15, with all of our annual Deck the Halls merry mayhem featuring our children and youth. Everyone will be included in the sanctuary so there will be no Children's RE classes offered. All children will participate in this wonderful multi-generational service. The nursery will be staffed, as usual, for care of nursery-aged children. For those small children who find it difficult to remain in the service, the preschool room will be available for free play. We ask that parents supervise their own children if this option is chosen.

On Sunday, December 30, only nursery care and a multi-aged winter celebration will be offered in the RE class room. If you will be in town and would like to join the folks in RE for some snow-themed stories and activities, please contact Emmie at 658-1710.


Boston Bounders – Christmas Shop A' Coming

As the Jr. High youth prepare for their journey to Boston, the epicenter of all things UU (!) they would like to offer a special treat for the holidays – a shop for BUUFers old and young, large and small to purchase gifts for the holidays. So, watch for their presence in the North foyer on Sunday, Dec. 9 and 16, check out their wares and buy what you can. Remember – it takes a whole church to send these young people (11 at last count) and adult chaperones (at least 5) to Boston in June 2013! Thank you.

JUSTICE Outreach

StepUp is December's Plate Recipient

Step-Up is a program offered through the Corpus Christie House to assist homeless individuals obtain GEDs. During its first year of operation with only one (slightly) paid staff, and a small cadre of dedicated volunteers, StepUp has empowered 21 people to obtain GEDs!

Eight of these graduates are now attending college. Please give generously to this life-changing program. If you'd like to volunteer call 336-6649. Direct any questions to Sue Stadler 939-7160.

25% of BUUF's unpledged plate offering will go to the StepUp Program. If you write Outreach in the memo line or use the envelopes in the hymnal holders and mark Social Justice, 100% will go to StepUp.


Social Justice Notes

The Hunger/Food Supply Task Force will not meet in December. Our next meeting is January 7, 2013 at 6:30 pm in the Balazs room.

Don't forget the Idaho Foodbank Backpack Program holiday fundraiser brought to you by the Hunger/Food Supply Task Force. Donate money to the Foodbank and receive a beautiful holiday card and mini-backpack that you can give as a gift or just enjoy yourself. We'll be in the vestibules the first three Sundays in December.

We still need (unopened) travel-size shampoo, conditioner and toothpaste for Whittier school as well as combs and hair accessories. Please put them in the barrel in the north vestibule marked Whittier.


Picnic in the Park

It's not too early to start thinking about next summer's Picnic in the Park, brought to you by the Idaho Foodbank. Picnic in the Park provides free lunches for food insecure children during the summer month. BUUF was a new site last year, and this year we'd like to make it bigger and better. We need someone to schedule the volunteers, and we need two monitors per day for about an hour (during lunch hours—we'll be assigned a time by the Foodbank). If you'd like more information or would like to volunteer, please e-mail .

COMMITTEES

Program Ministry Council & You (being UU)!

Cathy Carmen, PMC Co-chair

The Program Ministry Council (or PMC) wants to pose the question to ALL BUUF members, friends, new and old comers – What is your ministry? Why do you come to BUUF? What needs of yours are met by being a part of this Fellowship? How can you assist BUUF and those who come here to meet our needs together? What is your ministry? At the PMC we hope to shine the light on some of the ways both individuals and the larger congregation can answer that question. Unitarian Universalism isn't simply a faith that exists between the four walls of the building, it's a living, breathing presence in the world AND it asks much of us who practice it! So, yes – look around and see what needs to be done, both right here at BUUF to make our organization run more smoothly and if your heart calls you to do good works in the larger world – by all means get involved! Here are a few ways to do just that:

1. On the "home front" – The Hospitality Committee would like a few hardy souls to sign up and assist with making coffee, bringing treats and clean-up for each of the services on Sunday. See the clipboard on the north side of the fellowship hall for details. Also, our Worship Committee ALWAYS is looking for friendly Greeters and Readers every single Sunday morning! It's such an easy way to get to know people! Sign-ups for that are on the clipboard on the north side of the hall as well.

2. Enjoy Elizabeth's final year of ministry with us and work behind the scenes of the Twelfth Night celebration in her honor on Jan. 12, 2013. Sign up for that is in the vestibule.

3. Need a few more ideas? Sing in the choir, help out in the Nursery, assist in an RE classroom on Sunday, attend a Social Justice meeting; greet Newcomers at the carts and so much more! Show up, take part; be a part of this dynamic and friendly place we call BUUF – now!


From the Library Committee

As you go about your holiday cleaning, take a peek at your bookshelves. Perhaps a title you borrowed from the BUUF library got stuck on your shelves and was forgotten in the hubbub of life. We appreciate you taking a look.

Speaking of taking a book, have you been down the hall lately to browse the library shelves and see the many titles available for loan? Simply choose one you would like to read, sign it out on the book cart and enjoy.

Also, browse the table at the back of the sanctuary and on the for sale cart in the library for ones you would like to make part of your own collection. All profits go toward expanding the BUUF library.

Interested in becoming part of the library committee? Contact Janet Wyke at 939-3853 or for more information.


ACTIVITIES & EVENTS

Last Ministerial Luncheons With Elizabeth—Ever!

For a long time now, the Committee on Ministry and the minister have been holding no-host casual luncheons twice a month, for anyone who wants to just chat and have a relaxed time. Although we will be substituting with something else (see below), this December marks the last of these luncheons.

Thursday, December 6, Miss Tami's Cottage and Tea Room, 1031 North Main Street, Meridian, 11:30. (It's always possible just to have coffee here, too.)

Friday, December 21, the cafeteria in the URS Building (formerly Washington Mutual, even more formerly M-K) on Park, across Broadway on the inbound Extender, 11:30. Go in the double doors behind the big fountain.

Now: during February-May, the C o M and Elizabeth will be available one Sunday evening a month for Chats With Elizabeth, at the church, 6 pm-7:30, in the Channing Room. These are chances to ask questions, share concerns and joys, and just have a good time during these final months. The first one is February 10—mark your calendar!


Elizabethan Twelfth Night Celebration

In honor of Elizabeth's Retirement

Please Come to the BUUF Elizabethan Twelfth Night Family Celebration, on Saturday January 12th, 2013.

The Celebration promises to be an evening of merrymaking with the Fools Squad, Boston Bounder Buskers, dramatic presentations and storytelling, music, poetry, and feasting on roasted pig, turkey and potluck side dishes and desserts. We will have wassail, wine, cider, and beer from Cloud Nine Brewery.

We would like to encourage you to come in costume and bring a traditional twelfth night side dish or dessert (of course you are welcome with or without). Bring mugs and currency for buskers and brew.

Costume ideas and recipes are available in the BUUF vestibule or you can have them e mailed to you by request at .

If you would like to share a talent, help with preparations, or have questions about the event please contact Miriam Woito at or call 890 6074.

Join Boise Unitarian Universalist Fellowship in honoring our Queen Elizabeth who will be retiring in June 2013.

The event is FREE but you must RSVP ASAP and before December 31st.

RSVP to or 658-1710.


Entering that Dark Place

Jeanette Ross

Last month we had agreed to talk about issues related to suicide. Note the word 'issues.' This sounds cerebral, approaching a difficult subject in a careful, caring, mostly abstract way, perhaps talking about 'why it is illegal and what we can do to ease the restrictions on allowing individuals to take their life if they have severe, incurable pain' to quote Rick Groff.

We didn't get there. We began with personal stories and lingered. No hurry. So many of us had been touched by this experience, some peripherally, some by deep immersion. Only the trust and respect between us (and the size of the group, 13 of us) allowed such honesty. At the end we decided to call for help ourselves. A skilled and compassionate counselor, Judy Fredericks, agreed to meet with us next month.

We invite you to join us, 11:15am, November 18, in the Boise UU Fellowship library. Bring your questions, your capacity to share.


Social Climber

December Sages

Ama Dablam is one of the many peaks of the Himalayas you probably haven't heard of. It doesn't make the top 100 highest in the world, but at 22,349 ft., it's taller than anything in North America (and just shy of South America's #1, Aconcagua in Argentina). Expand your imagination as Mike Creamer describes his climb to the top in 2008, at the single December meeting of the BUUF Sages. Join us for that, and a no-host breakfast at the Kopper Kitchen (2661 Airport Way), 9:30am on Thursday, December 13. All are welcome. Contact Tom von Alten (378-1217 or ) for more information.


Path to Membership Classes Offered

The Fellowship Connections Team offers a series of classes that are designed for the specific needs of newcomers. Total time for the three classes is about five hours. All classes will be held on a Sunday after church. Childcare is available with advance notice. If you would rather not bring a lunch, light snacks will also be available. Here is more information:

UU for Newcomers

In an hour and a half, this class will give you the basics: A brief history of UU, a fun exercise to acquaint you with our Seven Principles, and a video discussing the philosophy of the free pulpit and the free pew. No need to sign up ahead of time. The class is held on the fourth Sunday of every month in the south wing classrooms.

NOTE: Due to the Thanksgiving holiday, the next class will be on Sunday, December 2

Community Connections

What are you looking for? Classes? Volunteer opportunities? Social Justice? We'll point you in the right direction and make introductions. This class is all about meeting others and becoming an active part of our fellowship. The class will be offered four times per year. Sign up through the Adult RE program (forms are in the office), send an email to , or call Jay Wechselberger at 871-3765.

Becoming a Member

Have you learned the basics? Gotten connected and involved? Now, are you ready to sign our membership book? We'll tell you how, give you information on the inner workings of BUUF, and arrange for signing the book and introducing you to the congregation. The class will be offered four times per year. Sign up through the Adult RE program (forms are in the office), send an email to , or call Jay Wechselberger at 871-3765.

Have you come from another UU congregation? We welcome you to take any or all of these classes, but if you are ready to sign the membership book now, talk to the minister or anyone on the Fellowship Connections Team.


UUs for Justice in the Middle East (UUJME)

will not be meeting in December. See you next year!


End of World Party! (and Discussion)

Mayan Prophecy! Apocalypse, End of the World, Oh My! Last Day, Friday Dec 21!

Fringe Topics Discussion & Last Chance Party!

Thursday, December 20, 7pm, Channing Room, BUUF

(Why do people predict apocalypses, over and over? Why do they believe them? After all, Disasters do happen!)


Yule and the Yuletide: Whats it all about?

Join us in Exploring Pagan/Nature Spirituality, Thursday Dec 13, 7pm, Channing room at BUUF.


Travel Group Resumes in January

The travel group is taking a break in December. Our next meeting date will be Friday, January 18 at 7:00 at BUUF. January's gathering will be a themed one where we hope each attendee will bring something to share. With your help we want to create BUUF's Best of Edible Idaho. Maybe it is a farmer's market, a bakery, a brewery or winery, or perhaps it is a 'diner, drive in or dive'. Sometimes you discover a special place when you travel; sometimes you travel because of a special place. Come share your "finds" with your friends at BUUF. Contact Karen Raese, , for more details or to schedule a future travel group presentation. We'd love to hear about your travels, near or far.


The Other Book Club

Come join us for a lively discussion on books and other topics. We generally meet on the second Sunday of the month from 7 to 8:30 PM.

On December 9 we will discuss Evidence of Things Unseen by Marianne Wiggins. Meet us at Benita Coleman's home, 8169 W. Beckton Ln, Garden City, 375-9082.

On January 13 we will discuss The Cat's Table by Michael Ondaatje. Meet us at Mindy Arnold's home, 7790 West Devonwood Dr., Boise, 83714. 853-2337.

February's book is Mean Little Deaf Queer, by Terri Galloway (a memoir). We will meet at the home of Kathleen McGown and Eric Wallace.

For March we will be reading Red Sorghum,by Mo Yan.

If you would like to be on our email list send your address to Erin Logan at .

Happy Reading!

PNWD & UUA

Workshop Proposals for Regional Assembly are being accepted through January 2, 2013.

Call for Workshops

See the Call for Workshops form for more information. Application deadline is January 2, 2013.

The first Pacific Western Regional Assembly will be held at the Doubletree by Hilton in San Jose, California, April 26-28, 2013. The individual Annual Meetings of the Pacific Northwest District, Pacific Central District, Pacific Southwest District, and Mountain Desert District will each be held in conjunction with this gathering.

Join these four western UUA Districts in making history this spring as we come together in a Regional Assembly to explore and celebrate BIG FAITH * NO BORDERS. There will be three planned Saturday workshop tracks responding to the charge of UUA President the Rev. Peter Morales to "Get Religion, Cross Borders and Build Leaders." Additionally, these all-day seminars will be augmented with an Option Track, consisting of shorter workshops offered by congregational leaders from the Pacific Western Region, ready to share their insights and expertise.

Workshop proposals should focus on the BIG FAITH * NO BORDERS theme and may highlight practical skills and successful programs for congregations of all sizes. Space is limited; workshops will be selected by the planning team to promote diversity in topics and voices. Applicants will be notified by February 15, 2013 if their workshop is accepted.

Send applications to:

Rev. Dr. Ken Brown

- or mail to -
4969 Tanager Court
Prescott, AZ 86301

All presenters must be registered for Regional Assembly, and must provide their own transportation, housing and any needed audio visual equipment.

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