BUUF Sundays Archive

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BUUF Sunday Services Archive - 2008

Our audio archive of sermons was started April 13, 2008.

January, 2008

Sunday, January 6, one service at 10 am followed by potluck

"Margaret Fuller: Courage and Soul," by Rev. Elizabeth Greene

One of our important foremothers is the Transcendentalist thinker and activist, Margaret Fuller. Passionate and intense, she lived her soul's vision. Bruce Dowlin, service coordinator. Mike Lemieux, music.

Sunday, January 13, 9 and 11 am

"Kronos and Kairos: of Schedules and Time," by Rev. Elizabeth Greene

In this final sermon before her six-month sabbatical, Elizabeth will reflect further on how we spend time. She will talk about what makes up "regular" time and also "time out of time." Gail Haldeman, service coordinator. The Plethora, music

Sunday, January 20, 9 and 11 am

Marilyn Schuler, Idaho Human Rights Commission

Marilyn Shuler is the former director of the Idaho Human Rights Commission, having retired after 20 years in 1998. She has served the state and the Northwest in many other capacities including: president of the Idaho Human Rights Education Center, founding member of the Northwest Coalition against Malicious Harassment, been a member of the Boise School Board and the Boise Redevelopment Agency, and public employees retirement board (PERSI). She now serves on the boards of the Idaho Public TV Foundation, City Club of Boise and the Osher Lifelong Learning Institute at BSU. Mark Zimmerer, service coordinator. Conner von Huene, music.

Sunday, January 27, 9 and 11 am

"Ministry as the Human Journey" - Rev. Margaret Keip

Our "sabbatical circuit rider" will sketch for us a kaleidoscopic view of ministry that sheds dancing lights on the wholeness and hope of congregational life, and the gifts that all of us may be to each other. Carol Wechselberger, service coordinator. Cees Hoefnagels and Janelle Brown.

Special Congregational Meeting

A special congregational meeting of the Boise Unitarian Universalist Fellowship will be held on Sunday, January 27, 2008 at 12:30 P.M. at the Fellowship building at 6200 Garrett St., Boise, Idaho, to determine what, if any, position or action BUUF will take regarding the War in Iraq.

February, 2008

Sunday, Feb. 3, one service, 10 am, followed by potluck

"Passion," the Rev. Deborah Raible

Passion seemed to be appropriate for a sermon taking place in this month of Valentines, and because Deborah is passionate about BUUF! The Rev. Deborah Raible is the Minister Associated at University Unitarian Church in Seattle, WA. David Ward, service coordinator. Choir directed by Carrie Bastian, music. Sue Langley, music.

Sunday, February 10, 9 am and 11 am

"Feeling Small in the Midst of it All," Rep. Nicole LeFavour

Boise Representative Nicole LeFavour draws on her previous experience as a wilderness ranger in the Frank Church Wilderness to help articulate the humility that we often feel when experiencing nature firsthand. Tony DeAngelis, service coordinator. Nuralima, music.

Sunday, February 17, 9 am and 11 am

"Roots Hold Me Close, Wings Set Me Free," Debra Smith and Elton Hall

In a preview of the class on American mysticism, Debra and Elton expose the false dichotomy between mysticism and community action, unfettered individuality and vibrant community. Carol and Jay Wechselberger, service coordinators. Bruce McAllister, music.

Sunday, February 24, 9 am and 11 am

"People Magic"—Rev. Margaret Keip (our sabbatical anchor)

Pursuing Gandhi's view of violence as anything that violates the integrity of something living, Margaret will bring it home to everyday life with each other. To achieve what we long for, this is where best to begin. Gail Haldeman, service coordinator. Coston Frederick, music.

March, 2008

Sunday, Mar. 2, one service 10 am, followed by potluck

"What on Earth have I done? -- Stories, Observations, and Affirmations," Rev. Robert Fulghum

Questions often asked of children by parents; questions we should be asking of ourselves, but often do not. Joining us this Sunday, Rev Fulghum brings his words and poses the questions - what have we done, what are we about to do, who do we think we are, just for starters! What can we learn from such self examination and why might it make a difference. David Ward, service coordinator. Tom von Alten celebrant. BUUF Choir directed by Carrie Bastain, and Sue Langley, music.

Sunday, March 9, 9 and 11 am

"Different Paths Same Journey," Rev. Ricky Hoyt, Unitarian Universalist Fellowship of the Santa Clarita Valley

The Hindu religion reminds us that there are many equally effective ways to reach our spiritual goals. Which practice is best for you depends on your natural affinities. Are you a thinker, a worshipper, a helper, a mystic, or something else? The task of our faith is to remember that though we may travel different paths, and even describe the goal in different ways, our journey, and the journey of all religious folks, is the same. Tony DeAngelis, service coordinator. David Ward and Debra Smith, celebrant. Cees Hoefnagels and Janelle Brown, music.

Sunday, March 16, 9 and 11 am

"The Cost of Iraq: Who pays the Price?" UUSC Justice Sunday, Rhonda Schaff

UUSC's Justice Sunday program examines the Iraq War and its impact on our nation from the perspective of Dr. Martin Luther King's words, "a nation that continues year after year to spend more money on military defense than on programs of social uplift is approaching spiritual death".Mark Zimmerer, service coordinator; Sue Philley, celebrant; Mike Lemieux, music

Sunday, March 23, Easter Sunday, 9 and 11 am

"Flor y Canto," Rev. Margaret Keip

Margaret brings us a remarkable, empowering and true Easter story from the history of the Mayan people, suppressed by the Aztecs, and long lost. It echoes another resurrection story celebrated elsewhere this day. Carol Wechselberger, service coordinator; Gwyn Reid, celebrant; Gretchen Neeley, music.

Sunday, March 30, 9 and 11am

"Peeling off the Labels," David M. Ward

Come watch David spend 20 thrilling minutes ripping labels off soup cans! Just kidding. People are divided these days by everything from government party affiliation, to sports teams, to choice of automobile. It appears that most of us go through our lives looking for ways to divide ourselves, rather than respect the "worth and dignity of each human being," as our UU principles teach. A self-described "labelaholic," David vows to change his ways and seek out the common humanity uniting us all. Come join him. Gail Haldeman, service coordinator. Lisa Johnson and Sue Philley, celebrants. Connor von Huene, Marcia von Huene, April Ward, and Mike Lemieux, music.

April, 2008

April 6, single service 10 am, followed by potluck.

"The Committee Meeting in Your Mind," Rev. Joan Montagnes.

Do you hear voices? Rev. Montagnes doesn't know about you, but she has a lively cast of characters including her mother, a televangelist, and a fictitious character named "the Beet Woman" who help her make decisions. And yes, she also listens to the still small voice within. David Ward, service coordinator. Jo Douglas, Patti Raino, Charlotte Tompkins, music. Tom von Alten, celebrant.

April 13, 9 am and 11 am

"The Conversation" Rev. Thomas Anastasi

No matter how much disagreement and conflict there in any aspect of our lives—in our families, in the government, in our congregation—the answer is always to be found, I believe, "in the conversation". We need to talk to one another on all these levels. Tony DeAngelis, service coordinator. BUUF Choir, Carrie Bastian, and Sue Langley, music. Alan Schwartzman, celebrant

In honor of John Harms' birthday, please wear your "John Harms" in tie.

April 20, 9 am and 11 am

"Are You Interconnected?" Wanda and Bryan Jennings

We talk a lot about being part of the interconnected web of all things. Do we ever check to see if we are really connected? Would the world be a better place if you were truly connected? Mark Zimmerer, service coordinator. McKenzie Bauer and Amy Tompkins, and Charlotte Tompkins, music. Wanda Jennings, celebrant

April 27, 9 am and 11 am

"Each night a child is born is a holy night..." Sophia Lyon Fahs
Rev. Margaret Keip, our high school seniors, and Religious Education Co-Directors Cathy Carmen and Karen Raese

Come join us in celebrating passages of our children and youth during this service when we have Children's Dedication and Sr. High Bridging. It is sure to be a day to remember.

Gail Haldeman, service coordinator. Mike Lemieux, music. Dale Winke, celebrant

May, 2008

Sunday, May 4, 10am

"The Last-minute Surprise"

Our planned guest speaker, Rabbi Daniel Fink, of Congregation Ahavath Beth Israel in Boise, had a family emergency. David Ward stepped in with a special delivery. BUUF choir directed by Carrie Bastian and Sue Langley, music. Tom von Alten, celebrant.

Sunday, May 11, 9am & 11am

"The Great Mother Virtue," Rev. Margaret Keip

Margaret will wrap Gaia, Mothers Day, and a magnificent ethic for living into a message about "size" on the last of her scheduled sabbatical-anchor Sundays with us. Carol and Jay Wechselberger, service coordinators; Gretchen Neeley, music, Alan Schwartzman, celebrant.

Sunday May 18, 10am

"For the Long Haul: Eco-justice for a Sustainable Future," Rev. Katherine Jesch

Our personal lives, congregational life, and the health and well-being of all life on Earth are intertwined. This sermon invites us to imagine our congregation as a healthy "Earth Community," where moral strength and spiritual sustenance can be found to support our quest for justice on an imperiled planet. Tony DeAngelis, service coordinator; Cees Hoefnagels and Charlotte Tompkins, music; Lynne Tolk, celebrant.The annual meeting will immediate follow at 11:30 am.

Sunday, May 25, 9am & 11 am

"What's so new about New Age Spirituality?" Panel of speakers

While current conventional wisdom would suggest that our culture's experimentation with Eastern religions and unorthodox Christianity is new, a closer familiarity with American Unitarian and Universalist histories counters that understanding. A panel of speakers, made up of recent attendees in an Adult R.E. class on the history of American spirituality, reflects on insights gained about their own, and America's, spiritual journey. Mark Zimmerer, service coordinator; Coston Frederick, music; Elton Hall, celebrant.

June, 2008

Sunday, June 1, 10 am, potluck picnic following

Flower Communion and Partner Church commemoration

We share our much-loved Flower Communion, based on Czech Unitarian minister Norbert Capek's brilliant concept: Capek wanted to have the religious, loving ties symbolized by traditional bread-and-wine communion, but without the Catholic overtones.

As he did, we'll bring flowers to church, put them in riotous bouquets in front of the chancel, then when the time comes, we come forward and each person takes away a flower that someone else has brought. Many of us bring more than one flower, so that newcomers and those who have forgotten will be able to partake. We figure it's like life: sometimes you have just enough; sometimes you have a little extra, which you can share; and sometimes your hands are empty and you need the love of friends to fill them again.

BUUF Choir, Carrie Bastian and Susan Langley, music; Tom von Alten,

celebrant.

June 8, 2008, 10am

"Making Room for Hummingbirds and Hope," Nan Harms

Every creature on earth has approximately two billion heartbeats to spend in a lifetime. You can spend them slowly, like a tortoise, and live to be two hundred years old, or you an spend them fast, like a hummingbird, and live to be two years old. (Text by Michael McGee, originally given March 2, 2008 at the UU Church of Arlington, VA)

June 15, 2008, 10am

Father's Day, Greg Duffy

Several years ago, Greg Duffy, then a chimney-sweep, suffered a fall from a roof. He nearly died. Since that time his brain sometimes struggles to find words to express his thoughts. On this Father's Day, Greg will reflect on what it means to give fatherly advice when words fail, literally. Debra Smith, service coordinator.

June 22, 2008, 10am

"The Shorter Longer Way," Guest speaker Rabbi Daniel B. Fink

Sometimes what looks like a short cut, isn't. The easy way out is not the path preferred. Rabbi Fink, rabbi of Congregation Ahavath Beth Israel in Boise, will present "The Shorter Longer Way," a sermon based on a Talmudic story. David Ward, service coordinator, Jeff Korfanta, music.

June 29, 2008, 10am

"The Power of Four," by Tom Hanks, delivered by Dale Winke

How many cars would you have to take away from California's crowded roadway to rid them of gridlock? A computer simulation supplied the answer: four percent, or four out of a hundred. The study provided inspiration for actor Tom Hanks in a remarkable speech at Vassar College's graduation ceremony on May 22, 2005. Dale Winke, presenter; Gwyn Reid, celebrant, Carol Wechselberger, coordinator; Patti Raino, Jo Douglas, and Jeff Korfanta, music.

July, 2008

July 6, 2008, 10 am

The History Project, Sheryl Dowlin, Alan and Mary Schwartzman, and Coston and Judy Frederick

America is a youth-worshipping culture, and that is appropriate for such a young country, celebrating, as it is, its birthday on this weekend. But any organization needs its elders. BUUF is in the process of video-recording the insights and wisdom of some of its "elders." This Sunday, come and hear from two long-term couples committed to each other and to our fellowship, and find out the secret to a lasting relationship. Besse LaBudde, service coordinator.

July 13, 2008, 10 am

Honoring the Spirited Child - Within and Without, Sarah Bratley

With some group participation, Sarah Bratley shares lessons learned about recognizing the inherent worth and dignity of every person - even in those times when you are challenged to find it. She also explores the need for respecting your own spirit while honoring and nurturing the spirit of those around us. Tony DeAngelis, service coordinator.

July 20, 2008, 10 am

The Velveteen Minister, Sharon Barlow Palm

Exploring the role of the minister in all of us. Carol Wechselberger, service coordinator.

July 27, 2008, 10 am

"The Grand Metaphor - Life on (and off) a raft in the Grand Canyon." Linden Boice and Gordon Hamilton

BUUF members Linden Boice and Gordon Hamilton will recount highlights of their three week rafting trip through the Grand Canyon this spring, and, perhaps, impart a few lessons for living during their multi-media presentation. David Ward, service coordinator. Gretchen Neeley, music.

August, 2008

August 3, 2008, 10am

"Science Fact and Fiction—How they informed my faith and world," Dale Winke

Let us see where that takes us. Gail Haldeman, service coordinator. Mike Lemieux, music.

August 10, 2008, 10am

"Shifting Sands in Religion and Politics: A Contemporary Historical Look," Jill Gill

Jill will explore changes currently afoot within the religious right as we approach the 2008 presidential election, and place these changes into some recent historical context. Mark Zimmerer, service coordinator. Susan Langley, music.

August 17, 2008, 10am

"Here Comes the Sun," Debbie Espen

We are physical, material, biological beings who not only need the light and warmth of the sun to live, but also respond emotionally and spiritually to the sun. Debbie shares a personal story of a long, cold, dark night, and what she learned from the experience. Carol Wechselberger, service coordinator.

August 24, 2008, 10am

"Polishing the Mirror" or "You don't like my Kung Fu?," Tony DeAngelis

Reflections on the spiritual aspects of the Martial Arts. Tony DeAngelis, service coordinator. Gretchen Neeley, music.

August 31, 2008, 10 am

"Silencing Mr. Negativepants," David Ward

David desperately wants to break free from his comfort zone. Throw caution to the wind and take complete advantage of this incredible gift we call life. Unfortunately, David's subconscious is dominated by a snobby British butler named "Mr. Negativepants," who constantly tells him he's not good enough, smart enough, and, doggonit, people don't like him. If you square off against your own version of Mr. Negativepants from time to time, head to BUUF this fine August morning and perhaps together we can silence him for good. David Ward, service coordinator. Elton Hall, celebrant. Jeff Korfanta, April Ward, Robb Deines, Joe Wechselberger and Tom von Alten, music.

September, 2008

Sept. 7, 2008 10:00 am

"Re-Connecting in Love," Rev. Elizabeth Greene

This is Elizabeth's first sermon since she left for sabbatical in January. What shall we expect from each other? How shall we be together now? Debbie Espen, service coordinator. Mark Zimmerer, Susan Langley, choir, music.

Sept. 14, 2008, 9 and 11 am

"Don't Be Afraid of Some Change," Rev. Elizabeth Greene

On this weekend when we will have been stimulated and inspired by a visit from UUA consultant Larry Wheeler Elizabeth will discuss the spiritual, emotional and practical implications of transition—which is always happening. Service coordinator, Allie Gooding. Mike Lemieux, music.

Sept. 21, 2008, 9 and 11 am

"Reflections on a Sabbatical, part one: Experiencing the Holy," Rev. Elizabeth Greene

Over this program year, Elizabeth will be sharing various aspects of her recent sabbatical. On this Sunday, she will reflect on the many and varied experiences she had of reverence and awe—sometimes known as the holy. Carol and Jay Wechselberger, service coordinators. Carrie Bastian, music.

Sept. 28, 2008, 9 and 11 am

"Who Is My Neighbor?" Rev. Elizabeth Greene

We Unitarian Universalists hold diversity as a high value. Today, Elizabeth will look at some ways about we may embody this value, and some ways where we may opt for denial or benign neglect. Mark Zimmerer, service coordinator. Charlotte Tompkins, music.

October, 2008

October 5, 2008, One service 10 AM, Potluck Following

"Let Us Cultivate Boundless Goodwill," Rev. Elizabeth Greene

What did the Buddha mean by "boundless good will"? On this Congregational Care Team-sponsored Sunday, Elizabeth will reflect on the nature of good will—usually bounded— in community. Nancy Harms, service coordinator; Coston Frederick, music.

October 12, 2008 9 & 11 am

"Of Such is the Kingdom of Heaven," Rev. Elizabeth Greene

This is National Children's Day, and we will consider that "childlike" attitude seen in advanced teachers like the Dalai Lama. It is also Association Sunday, celebrating this denomination of ours, which helps us teach our children to be confident, competent and compassionate. Tony de Angelis, service coordinator; BUUF choir with Sue Langley, music.

October 19, 2008, 9 & 11 am

"Pebbles In a Pond," Don Schutte

As children we often pitched pebbles into a pond. Maybe we still do as adults. I know I do. What lesson is there in this innocent action? David Ward, service coordinator; Mike Lemieux, music.

October 26, 2008, 9 & 11 am

"The Flaming Chalice," Rev. Elizabeth Greene

We UUs have fewer symbols that most religions. But we do cherish the flaming chalice, a beacon to us for many years. Elizabeth will tell the story of this symbol, and we will all reflect on the nature of symbols. Carol and Jay Wechselberger, service coordinators; Carrie Bastian, music.

November, 2008

Nov. 2, 2008 ONE SERVICE AT 10 AM, potluck following.

"Día de Los Muertos," Sharon and Charles Barlow Palm

At this "All Souls" time of year, we honor the Mexican custom of Day of the Dead, light-hearted and reverent. Bring a picture or small item to place on the altar. Debbie Espen, service coordinator. BUUF Choir and Sue Langley, music.

Nov. 9, 2008 9 & 11 am

"Partners in Faith," Rev. Elizabeth Greene, Miriam and David Woito, Will Smith

Four members of our church traveled as pilgrims to Meszko, Transylvania, to visit fellow Unitarians, with whom we have been partners for going on 20 years. They will share highlights from their deeply-affecting and fun stay in "our" village. Nancy Harms, service coordinator. Will Smith and Charlotte Tompkins, music.

Nov. 16, 2008 9 & 11 am

"Moving Forward in Faith," Rev. Elizabeth Greene

It's "Miracle Sunday"! Today, we wrap up our fall stewardship drive and begin celebrating 20 years of ministry partnership. If you haven't pledged yet, bring your pledge form. Help us celebrate a no-deficit year and the new ways of doing business that allow us to focus on nurturing our souls and helping heal the world. Tony DeAngelis, service coordinator.

Nov. 23, 2008, 9 & 11 am

"Ministry: Our Partnership," Gini Courter, Moderator of the Unitarian Universalist Association

This is a very big-deal Sunday. The witty, articulate, and grounded Gini Courter, moderator of our entire Association, will preach to us as we celebrate the 20th anniversary of this congregation's ordination of Elizabeth Greene—as we celebrate 20 years of partnership in ministry. Wanda Jennings, service coordinator. BUUF Choir and Sue Langley, music.

Nov. 30, 9 & 11 am

"In the Spirit of Thanks," Sarah Bratley

This Thanksgiving holiday, Sarah explores a thankful presence in prayers, everyday life, and social interactions. Mark Zimmerer, service coordinator

December, 2008

Sunday, December 7, 2008

"Deck the Halls," Children's Religious Education classes, assisted by teachers & adult volunteers

Come one, come all to BUUF's Deck the Halls celebration! This is our own intergenerational welcome to the winter holidays. Our wonderful RE children and youth will share with us "A Thousand and One Ways to Love and to Care." Cees Hoefnagels children and congregation, music. David Ward, service coordinator.

Sunday, December 14, 2008, 9 am & 11 am

"Where Are You Christmas? Finding Meaning in the Holiday Season—A Mostly Music Sun.," Rev. Elizabeth Greene and BUUF Choir

Celebrating the colorful tapestry of nature, Hanukkah, Kwanzaa and Christmas—Elizabeth, the choir and soloists will illuminate the common threads that let meaning shine through the hustle and bustle of the holiday season. BUUF choir, soloists and Susan Langley, music. Debbie Espen, service coordinator.

Sunday, December 21, 2008, 9 am & 11 am

"The Blessed Sound of Silence," Rev. Elizabeth Greene.

Elizabeth continues the tradition of a Quaker-style meeting on the Sun. before Christmas. After a reading, chalice lighting, simple song and brief explanation, we sit in silence for about 45 minutes, emulating the excellent practice of our sisters and brothers in the Friends tradition. Carol & Jay Wechselberger and Beverly Harley, service coordinators.

Sunday, December 21, 2008, 7 pm

"Winter Solstice Celebration," led by The Rev. Elizabeth Greene and the ever-faithful Solstice Team

This annual favorite is a reflective service celebrating light's return and pondering what we want to leave in the darkness and what bring into the light. About an hour long, it very appropriate for children who can sit relatively quietly for that long.

BRING HOLIDAY GOODIES FOR THE FESTIVE PARTY AFTERWARD

Wed., Dec. 24, 2008, 7 pm

Traditional Christmas Eve Service, The Rev. Elizabeth Greene.

Carols, traditional reading from the book of Luke plus contemporary readings, a Christmas homily by Elizabeth-capped by the lovely tradition of going outside, lighting candles, singing "Silent Night." This is a one-hour family service, appropriate for all ages. The nursery will be available for parents who find it necessary to be with their children somewhere besides the service itself. Nancy Harms, service coordinator.

Sunday, December 28, 2008, 9 am & 11 am

"A Spiritualist, a Skeptic, or a Child?" Nancy Harms

We will explore the spiritual, skeptic and child that exists in each of us; manifesting in one form or another depending on a particular moment in time in our lives. Carol Wechselberger, service coordinator, Judy Frederick, celebrant.

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