April 2016

Redwood Reachout April 2016
This month’s theme is “Salvation”
Sunday, April 3rd at 10:30 a.m. “Salvation Translation”
Worship Leaders: the Reverend Stefanie Etzbach-Dale
Worship Associate: Sarah Skovlund
Pianist: Larry Chinn
The word “salvation” has heavy theological overtones. It’s been used
to divide people into good/evil, worthy/unworthy. Today we explore
how this word helped shape Unitarian Universalism as it exists today!
The Share the Plate offering today will serve to benefit Fools Mission.
April
2016
Our Mission:
We weave a
community of
compassion and joy, giving us
strength and
hope.
We support the
spiritual
journeys we take together and alone.
Sunday, April 10th at 10:30 a.m. “Saving America”
Worship Leader: the Reverend Stefanie Etzbach-Dale
Worship Associate: Jorie Schulz
The presidential election season brings to light a variety of
perspectives regarding the state of this country and the world,
drawing attention to what might need saving and how to go about it.
What can UUs add to this discourse? UUFRC’s House Band will be
playing!
Sunday, April 17th at 10:30 a.m. "In Our Own Words: Salvation and the Power of Love"
Worship Leader: John Anning
Worship Associate: David Vallerga
Listen as five of your fellow congregants share autobiographical
vignettes on April's theme of "Salvation". Mixed in will be thematic
music from Goffin and King, Cat Stevens, and others. We will also be
joined by local musician Hannah McDonald who will sing a song or
two of her own.
Sunday, April 24th at 10:30 a.m. “Awakening to the World:
Ecological Justice as Salvation”
Worship Leader: Claire Eustace
Worship Associate: Joanne McMahon
On the heels of the 47th annual Earth Day, we celebrate humanity's
awakening to the harmful ecological impacts of modern human
civilization. We both grieve what we have lost and are losing because
of human actions and celebrate our successes as we continue to
awaken in love with this world.
Unitarian Universalist Fellowship of Redwood City
2124 Brewster Avenue, Redwood City, CA 94062
(650) 365-6913 www.uufrc.org [email protected]
Minister’s Musings, by Reverend Stefanie Etzbach-Dale
Minister’s
Musings
Reverend
Stefanie
EtzbachDale
This month’s theme is a tough one. The word "salvation" has been
made repugnant to many by virtue of centuries of violence inflicted by those
who took it upon themselves to define for others the gift of (and path to)
salvation.
The intentions may have been laudable, but the methods and
underlying assumptions were anything but. Consider the crusades and the
more recent conquest and conversion of indigenous people. The great irony
and tragedy is that so much was actually lost as a result.
I find myself asking: "What is the 'great gift' of our age? What/who
needs saving, and how can we be champions of a salvific solution without
adding to others' suffering?"
In response to the repugnant realities of this age I lift up the
"inherent worth and dignity of all" as a salvific Truth - and assert that those
most directly affected by institutional systems denying this Truth are
precisely the ones who should be defining both the problem and the
solutions!
Which brings me to our new Black Lives Matter banner.
By displaying this banner we are proclaiming a willingness to grapple
with the complex realities of and impact of institutionalized racism, marked
by the tendency of well-intentioned power-holders to offer "solutions" that
are anything but.
Through this banner we are proclaiming a willingness to examine all
our assumptions and our intentions; we are signaling that we strive to honor
the lived experiences of all those whose humanity has been, and continues
to be, denied.
Collective salvation is affirmed, through this banner, as involving a
willingness to set aside our own ideas of what is necessary and just.
Through this banner we are signaling our willingness to support those whose
voices have otherwise been denied.
With the raising of this banner we are joining many other faith
communities in proclaiming an awareness that this is an essential and longoverdue, shared commitment; that we are eager to be challenged and
changed on behalf of a new, heart-opening "salvific" Truth.
I am so proud of our Social Action Committee for taking this public stance,
even as I recognize that it may be worrisome to some among us.
Whether you find yourself affirmed and inspired by the Black Lives
Matter banner, or struggling with its implications, please know you are not
alone. Please reach out to me or to our Social Action Chair, Nancy Goodban,
if you’d welcome an opportunity to share your thoughts.
- In Awe & Gratitude, Reverend Stefanie
222
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SHARING CIRCLE, Sunday, April 3rd at noon: All are welcome to join Rev. Stefanie in the
sanctuary for heart-centered sharing on the month's theme: "salvation". Who/what needs
saving, and how is or can that goal be accomplished in your life?
COMMUNITY OFFICE HOURS with Rev. Stefanie
• Thursday, April 7th at 10:00 am, Emerald Hills Coffee
• Thursday, May 5th at 3:00 pm, La Tartine
In addition to being available to schedule a private meeting with me in my UUFRC office, I’m
setting aside some time for “community office hours” – a time during which I’ll be at a local
coffee shop, available for “drop in” meetings and casual conversations with folks in the
community! What would you like to talk about? Plan to stop by if you can (and if you have one,
wear your UUFRC t-shirt or name tag!)
CONNECTING WITH YOUR MINISTER
Do you have a question about Unitarian Universalism, the life of this community, or your own
spiritual journey? Are you struggling with life’s challenges, seeking support or resources to help
you create meaning of it all? Do you have ideas to help enrich congregational life? Schedule a
time now to meet by emailing [email protected]. Non-urgent matters are best scheduled for
Thursdays or Fridays, but let me know what works for you. And of course, if it’s urgent, please
call my cell phone, listed in our Directory.
SAVE THE DATE: Sunday, May 22nd
May is alternative transportation month – and there are tons of bicycle-related events happening
in the SF Bay Area. Thanks to Michael Withers and the Social Action Comittee, UUFRC is already
collecting and repairing bicycles for donation to shelter residents. Want to help? Perhaps
organize a group-ride to a local park or attraction? Let Michael or Nancy Goodban know! And
plan to ride your bicycle to our worship service on May 22nd. There will be a “blessing of the
bicycles” at noon!
THIS MONTH’S THEME IS “Salvation”
Be sure to read the attached Theme Based Ministry flyer prepared by Rev. Stefanie and let her
know if you have ideas or resources relating to upcoming themes (May: truth.) There will be no
themes over the summer months. September’s theme will be “Vision”.
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From our Board of Trustees President,
John Cooney
Listening to people talk on the pledge videos this year has caused me to reflect on our community. I
was reminded how easy it is to take things for granted, to forget what it was like before I became a
member of this community, to take for granted the benefits of this community without acknowledging
what it takes to support that benefit.
While I receive much from this community of friends, looking back I realize that it was the times
when I was scared, uneasy, or feeling empty that this place was of greatest importance. I say
“place” intentionally because I have come to this church, to this physical location, to sit and be with
my pain, sorrow, or loss. Surrounded by these sanctuary walls, the chairs may be empty if I have
come alone, or full of people for a service or vigil. I may sit at one of our picnic benches backed by
the building, surrounded by the trees and plantings. The place has a kind of aura that is supportive.
It is not because of its physical location: 37°28'48.57"N, 122°14'43.59"W. Nor its physical structure,
it is wood and nails and flooring and roof just as is any building. This power is something that we
have created together: “made sacred by our intent to build beloved community.”
A physical place can be a powerful reminder of the strength of the beloved community. I know that I
have the love of the community with me at all times. We often close a meeting or a service with the
words: “Go with hope, go with courage, go with love, and remember, you are never alone.” While my
father was dying, I would repeat these words to myself as a touch stone - I am never alone. But
what I longed for was to sit in the sanctuary, to be in this physical place.
What gives this place, those words, such power? It is the work we do. When I first walked in the
door, this power was not present for me. It is by investing my energies into the community that I
built this power of community for myself and others. Each Sunday that I attend a service is a
contribution to that power, each work day is a contribution, each social action event I participate in,
each meeting I attend, all are feeding that aura that I can draw on in times of need.
Some religions assert that such grace is provided by some higher authority, but I believe that it is
here because we have worked to build it. Just as we work to maintain the physical structure of our
church, we concurrently work to maintain the grace of our community. We would help anyone who
shows up at our church doors, but I do not believe that the full supportive power of our community
can be realized by anyone until they have contributed to the community.
This is why it is so important to show up. This is why it is important that our kids come to RE even if
there are cartoons on TV. To show up, participate, and contribute creates that foundation for spiritual
support when you unexpectedly need it. Had you said that to me when I first walked in the door, I
would not have believed you, but I assure you it is true. Come; help me grow this beloved
community.
With Love, Faith, and Gratitude
John M. Cooney
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The Holy Thursday Street ritual organized by Reverend Stefanie with the help of Thomas Atwood,
included songs, prayers, and testimonials in Spanish and English - as well as blessings given to
those who came forward to have their feet washed.
Nominations for Share The Plate 2016-2017
The Social Action Committee will hold an election after the UUFRC Annual Meeting in June to
choose 10 organizations to receive a ‘Share the Plate’ collection in the coming year: July 2016
through June 2017. We will save 2 collections for the minister.
To be eligible to receive a special collection, the group must be a 501(c)3 charitable organization
and the nominator must have some kind of personal involvement with the organization
(membership, volunteer, financial supporter, etc.). We will provide ballots with a short description
of each organization. All those attending the meeting will vote for ten organizations. The top ten
vote-getters will each be scheduled for a Sunday next year. The 2 organizations receiving the
smallest number of votes will be scheduled during the upcoming summer months.
How to nominate your favorite worthy organization for a special collection at UUFRC:
Write a paragraph of 150 words or less describing the organization and email it to Cathy Von der
Porten [email protected] by May 24. Please ask your computer to count the words. It helps
to tell the charitable purposes of the organization and your own involvement in it. Both UUFRC
members and friends are eligible to nominate. Based upon prior experience, it is best to
nominate one charity, but we don't have a rule prohibiting more.
During the election meeting, you may also wish to give a speech of not more than one minute
describing what the group does, why you participate, and why members of our congregation
should choose it to receive our offering.
—-Cathy Von der Porten, Share The Plate Coordinator
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Youth Group Event Listing:
Please check the calendar on the UUFRC website (http://www.uufrc.org/get-involved/
calendar-of-events/?) for the most up-to-date information, or link the UUFRC calendar to
yours using the button on the lower right of the calendar. Youth events on the calendar are
listed in green.
Both MUUGs (6th-8th grade) and YoUUth (9th-12th grade) are welcome at all events!
April 10, 12pm-3pm: Make cookies together to celebrate Spring! We can even eat what we
make! Yummy!! Youth will also be meeting with Rev. Stefanie to plan a June worship service!
April 23, 6pm - April 24, 9am: Sleepover. Always fun for the whole group!!
May 15, 12pm-3pm: Ceramics at Color Me Mine in Menlo Park. Lots of painting for all! Time
to feel our creative spirit!
June 4, 3pm-8pm: End of year BBQ to celebrate an awesome year with each other!
Have you been one of the friendly, smiling faces that hands out Orders of
Service at a Sunday service? Yes? Then, wouldn't you like to do it again? No?
Then, would you like to be?
Participating as a Greeter is a great opportunity to contribute and to become
better known to others in the community. And it's fun! The Connections
Committee would like to make it easy for you. Check your calendar now and go
to our online sign-up form.
Sign up for as many dates as you like!
http://www.signupgenius.com/go/10c0448aeac2ea1f85-uufrc
—Patricia Dwyer, Connections Committee
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Salvation
Theme-Based Ministry Resource Flyer
!
We weave a community of compassion
and joy, giving us strength and hope. We
support the spiritual journeys we take
together and alone.
We work to create a better world
by reaching out, taking risks, and building
relationships beyond
our Fellowship.
Salvation is typically understood as personal deliverance from “sin” and its consequences. It is a
religious term associated, by virtue of Christian theology, with: inherent guilt, fear and
powerlessness. Many Unitarian Universalists reject this word outright because it seems so contrary
to the First Principle: “the inherent worth and dignity of all”, as well as to the freedoms claimed
within this religious tradition. Others, in choosing to grapple with that word, may reject the definition
while reaching for more affirming and empowering understandings of what that word could mean.
For example, the very real experiences of exile, slavery and persecution that shaped the Jewish
tradition led to a focus on collective (rather than personal) salvation. The Jewish People, as a
whole, were to be delivered/saved from injustice. As such, in that context, salvation is recognized
as a collective need and endeavor that is closely linked with justice-making.
It’s important to know that the need for “this-world salvation” extends to all people, even in this
day and age. So many are held captive to poverty and violence; are slaves to ignorance and fear.
Deliverance (aka salvation), could come in the form of empowering, hope-inducing fair wages, gun
reform legislation, reproductive health education and alternative energy solutions.
On a more personal level, it must be acknowledged that all human beings find themselves at
times trapped in despair and hopelessness - needing help. Instead of seeing that as an inherent
flaw, it could be lifted up as a sign of interdependence and empowerment because we each are
empowered to offer salvation to one another: in the form of a smile, a kind word, a compassionate
ear or warm invitation into this beloved community covenanted to “work to create a better world” for
all.
This year’s themes are: Unity, Vocation, Gratitude, Peace, Grace, Prayer, Letting go, Salvation, Truth. You’re invited to
engage with each month’s theme by reading some of the books recommended here, by watching movies related to the
theme, discussing and/or journaling your thoughts, creating and sharing art, poetry or music, or engaging in related
service. If you have resources or personal reflections to share, or would like to collaborate in other ways, please do let
me know!
In Awe & Gratitude, Rev. Stefanie [email protected]
Unitarian Universalist Fellowship of Redwood City, 2124 Brewster Avenue, Redwood City, CA 94062
www.uufrc.org, Office (650) 365-6913 Fax (650) 368-1461 E-mail: [email protected]
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MOVIES:
• Bagdad Cafe - PG
• The Mission - PG
• Megamind - G
A BOOK FOR CHILDREN:
• Sendak, Maurice. Where the
Wild Things Are
JOURNALING QUESTIONS
BOOKS FOR ADULTS:
• When have you found yourself
needing help to break free of
• Rich, Bruce. To Uphold the
World (Beacon Press)
harmful thoughts and
behaviors, relationships, or
• Hecking, Rebecca. The
Sustainable Soul: Eco-Spiritual
systems of oppression?
Reflections and Practices
• Were you able to ask for and/or
(Skinner House)
receive help?
• Zandt, Deanna. Share This!
• Who or what “saved” you?
How You will Change the World • What did that feel like?
with Social Networking
• Did that experience change the
• Sacks, Rabbi Jonathan. To Heal way you respond to suffering in
A Fractured World: The Ethics of
Responsibility
• Parker, Rebecca Ann. Blessing
“What saved me? Art, friendship,
the World: What Can Save Us
music, poetry,
Now
nature, community, exercise,
• God of the Oppressed,
balance, church, experience over
by J. H. Cone Maryknoll
time, activists, peace, knowledge,
• Saving Paradise, by R.
wisdom, choices, the journey...”
Nakashima Brock & R. Parker
• When Children Ask About God: A
Guide for Parents Who Don’t
Always Have All the Answers,
by H. S. Kushner
Unitarian Universalism affirms: That Creation is too grand, complex,
and mysterious to be captured in a narrow creed. That is why we
cherish individual freedom of belief. At the same time our convictions
lead us to other affirmations . . .
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
That the blessings of life are available to everyone, not just the
Chosen or the Saved;
That Creation itself is Holy -- the earth and all its creatures, the
stars in all their glory;
That the Sacred or Divine, the Precious and Profound, are made
evident not in the miraculous or supernatural but in the simple
and the everyday;
That human beings, joined in collaboration with the gifts of grace,
are responsible for the planet and its future;
That every one of us is held in Creation's hand -- a part of the
interdependent cosmic web -- and hence strangers need not be
enemies;
That no one is saved until we All are saved, where All means the
whole of Creation;
That the paradox of life is to love it all the more even though we
ultimately lose it.
Quotes to ponder:
There is no salvation in
becoming adapted to a world
which is crazy. Henry Miller
Human salvation lies in the
hands of the creatively
maladjusted. MLK, Jr.
Courage is a kind of salvation.
Plato
The challenge is in the
moment; the time for salvation
is always now.
James A. Baldwin
Ignorance has always been
the weapon of tyrants;
enlightenment the salvation of
the free. Bill Richardson
An idea is salvation by
imagination. F.L. Wright
Three things are necessary
for salvation: to know what
you ought to believe; what
you ought to desire; what you
ought to do. T. Aquinas
Work out your own salvation.
Do not depend on others.
Next month’s theme is
Truth
“SHARING CIRCLE” ON SUNDAY, April 3rd at noon
All are welcome at noon in the sanctuary for a heart-centered sharing
8 for, and/or experience of salvation.
on the meaning of, yearning for, need
2016-17 UUFRC PLEDGE DRIVE UPDATE
Our community has engaged with our annual pledge drive this year in many extraordinary
ways. We've had more than 20 Ambassadors dedicated to reaching out to every UUFRC
member and friend to hear what is important to them about our community today. Those
stewardship conversations are at the heart of what we want to do together during pledge
drive. We set a goal of 100 % participation, at whatever level is right for any member or
friend. And we had a stretch goal of a $30,000 increase in commitments over last year. We
know we are making fantastic progress toward our goals and will know more as we get
those final pledge cards in. But what is already clear is how committed our fellowship is to
continuing to nourish each other and grow our mission. Thanks to every one of us this
pledge season for playing an important part. We look forward to celebrating in April. And,
as our pledge began with a packet of seeds to nourish, please be sure to
collect your thank you gift to see what we have grown together!
Peter Hartzell and Chris DeCardy (your pledge drive co-chairs)
Leadership Everybody?
Looking for a collaborative leadership role to help UUFRC balance our mission and our
decisions toward making our Beloved Community a thriving, on-going concern? Curious
about the information, influences, sometimes intelligent, and often amusing conversations
that lead to Board of Trustee decisions? Wonder why “this” gets funded but not “that”?
Never enjoyed a collaborative leadership role in a non-profit and seeking to add to your skillset with the help of wonderfully supportive individuals?
We have 7 Board of Trustee members who serve up to two 2-year terms. This June, we have
3 openings for new Board members. This offers the opportunity for new community
members to join this essential, not-so-behind-the-scenes body who deal with decisions
ranging from new light switches to new Staff members.
No decision is required now -- just let a Board member, Reverend Stefanie, or the Committee
on Shared Ministry know of your interest in exploring this by mid-April. The Nominating
Committee will be in touch. Final candidates need to be identified in May,
and will be voted on at the Annual Meeting in June.
Thanks, Cheri Hahne
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Corresponding Secretary's Report - Board of
Trustees Meeting
At its monthly meeting on February 24, 2016 the UUFRC Board of Trustees * Guest Peter Hartzell - pledge update. Pledge kick-off is scheduled for 2/28. "Nourish and
Grow" interviews with members are complete. Ambassadors have been selected and trained.
* Connection committee requested funds to cover cost of printing UU pamphlets and
refreshments for UU101 class. Discussed at length but no decision made. Item tabled for 2
months.
* Rental Task Force - Thoughts were shared for proposed charter. Ideas discussed for other
rental income 1) to turn game room into a rental space; 2) actively seek to rent church for
events e.g. weddings, birthdays celebrations; and 3) rent Sanctuary to other churches for use
on Sunday evenings. No decision made.
* Rev. Stefanie - "Parents' night out" is planned for Friday, March 11, in the p.m. to give
families a chance to connect with Derby and Jeri our Youth Advisor. The first UU101 session is
planned for March 6, following the worship service. It will be held in the Sanctuary.
The minutes of all BOT meetings are posted in the main hallway at UUFRC and are
available by paper copy on request.
—Gregory Gee, Corresponding Secretary
UU Prison Ministry:
Recently I met Meg Ryan, minister of the Church of the Larger Fellowship, at the Live Oak
Congregation in Goleta, where I visit once a month. Meg was also visiting from Minneapolis,
and we talked about the UUA Prison Ministry and the prisoner at Waseca with whom I
correspond. Meg told me that the Prison Ministry now serves over 700 incarcerated UUs, 204
with penpals. In addition to matching penpals and serving as pen pal go-betweens, the
Church of the Larger Fellowship also sends UU course curricula to prisoners. Currently 25
prisoners are waiting for pen pal matches. Is this something you could do?
It is really pretty easy, and it means so much to the prisoners to have someone outside to
talk to. I write to my penpal once a month and she writes back. Letters can be paper and
pen via snail mail, or sometimes prisoners have email. We write about all kinds of things…
simple everyday things that go on in our lives, books, UU themes, drugs/alcohol (because
many prisoners have been addicted), etc. It is totally safe, because the UUA receives all mail
from prisoners and forwards it to UU pen pals. Questions? Just ask me or Geri K or
Marianna T. If you have any additional questions please reach out to the Director of the CLF
Prison Ministry, Mandy Goheen at [email protected].
—Carolyn Chaney
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Installation of the Black Lives Matter Banner
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PACIFIC CENTRAL DISTRICT ASSEMBLY: APRIL 22-24
Registration Now Open!
Join us for 2016 Pacific Central District Assembly,
“Congregational Excellence: Doing Together What We Cannot Do Alone.”
Reverend Scott Tayler, Director of Congregational Life for the Unitarian Universalist Association,
will give the Saturday morning keynote address, “A Vision for Radical Interdependence.” What
would it mean for us to live into the reality that we belong to one another? If you are weary of
trying to be and do all things, or looking for new ideas about how we can work smarter but not
harder, or longing to understand what makes our theology as radical and relevant as ever, Rev.
Scott Tayler’s vision will speak to you. The keynote will be followed by a General Session on
Implementing Radical Interdependence.
As usual, there are lots of inspiring and thought-provoking workshops, including:
•
A Forgotten Catalyst for Growing Unitarian Universalism
•
A Multi-Congregational Path to More Robust Lifespan Faith Development
•
Empowering Lay Leadership: Conflict Resolution for Good
•
Islam & Unitarian Universalists
•
Showing Up for Racial Justice: Organizing White Identified People
•
Just Mercy—Exploring & Implementing the UUA Common Read
•
Tools for Approaching Hard Conversations
•
Sharing the Wealth with a Worship and Music Associates Program
•
UU’s breaking Out in New Dialogue with Traditional Christians
•
Working Together for Immigrant Justice
Breakfast and lunch are always a good time to meet and speak with UUs from congregations
around northern California, Nevada, and Hawaii.
You can attend District Assembly Friday night, Saturday, and Sunday morning, or just Saturday.
For more information, see http://www.pcduua.org/events/district-assembly/
GREAT OPPORTUNITY- REGISTER NOW!
District Assembly - Leadership Day, Friday, April 22nd (10:00-4:00)
Newark Freemont Hilton Hotel—Only $60 per person before April 11 (Lunch included)
For more information contact Rev. Jeannalyse Doran Adams [email protected]
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HATS Off!
Honors, Accolades, and Thanks!
•
•
•
•
Thanks to David Zarubin and Carol Cross for serving as UUFRC’s facilitators in the
Beloved Conversations program, which explores issues of identity and racism and how to
be an ally to marginalized people.
Thank you to all those who organized and donated on behalf of the Black Lives Matter
banner - and to Orrin Cross, Aaron Castle and Michael Withers for helping to install
it on March 13th.
Great big thanks to Lori Longo for her creative touch in compiling the new UUFRC
Directory in Cindy Johnson’s absence.
Thank you to all the parents who came out to “Club UUFRC” (our sanctuary transformed
into a night club) – and to Lillian Svec and Burgess Peck for offering to help
coordinate our next Parents’ Night Out!
April 23 - Redwood City Spring Clean
If you won't be attending District Assembly, you can help keep Redwood City clean. Meet at the Corporate Yard near Broadway and Woodside around 8:30am for a free
breakfast. Choose your area for clean-up and return at Noon for a barbecue lunch. Gloves and picker-uppers are provided. Wear comfortable, sturdy shoes, and if you have
one, a UUFRC or Standing on the Side of Love t-shirt.
Mary Poppins Movie Sing Along on April 16 at 6:00pm for all ages!
For the silent auction, we offered up a movie sing along. We have lots of winners, but
there is always room for more! We will be watching and singing along to Mary Poppins!!
This will be a night of fun for the whole family! We will provide popcorn, snacks, and
beverages. The UUFRC sanctuary will be our theater. A movie musical will be our
entertainment! The lyrics will be displayed on the screen and we will sing along with the
cast. Costumes and props are encouraged. You may bring pillows and blankets for
comfort.
If you did not already win this auction item, please come anyway! We request that you
contribute $10 at the door ($20 for a family)--or whatever amount works for you. All
proceeds go to UUFRC. You can come at the last minute, however, if you know you and
the whole family are coming please RSVP (email [email protected]) so we can
make enough popcorn!
Be there on Saturday, April 16, starting at 6:00 p.m. for a delightful evening.
—Sara Morgan, Jorie, Schulz, and Cyndi Williamson
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Book Discussion
For May 2 we are reading Fresh Off the Boat by
Eddie Huang. Huang says, "first and foremost, my
book tells a story about growing up TaiwaneseChinese in America. It's a story about unpacking your
identity, purging yourself of the things your
environment has imposed upon your consciousness,
and trying to set yourself free. I refused the
American Experience I was sold, remixed it for
myself, chopped it up, and sold it back.”
For June 6 our book is The Storied Life of A.J.
Fikry by Gabrielle Zevin.
All readers welcome at the UUFRC book group…we
love to meet new folks. We meet on the first
Monday of each month at 7:30 in the back lounge.
—Carolyn Chaney 🐝 — [email protected]>
SAVE THE DATE!! Coming June 12th -- the INTERFAITH SONGFEST,
hosted by and happening at UUFRC. The concert starts at 3 PM. There will
be choirs and music groups from various faith organizations, including the
Taiko drummers and our own UUFRC choir. Details will follow, but mark
your calendar NOW for this musical event on Sunday, June 12th at 3 PM,
begun by our beloved George Sliter and continued in his memory.
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FOOLS MISSION
Trickster disrupts signing ceremony
For years, Fools Mission has dragged its feet on incorporating as a nonprofit charity. Would our Spanishspeaking friends accept this? Would they help write our mission statement? Would rules against “self-dealing”
prevent recipients of financial assistance from sitting on the board, thereby reinforcing power relationships that
make us uncomfortable? Would corporate governance ruin the egalitarian nature of the consensus process
we’ve worked so hard to create? Would we have to attend the same meetings as other County CBOs? How
would that affect our capacity to speak truth to power when necessary? The experimental nature of our group
and our own tendencies to drift back into power relationships that most people take for granted made these
tough questions for us.
It took us five years to develop deep relationships of trust and shared vision that convinced us the time was
right. We took our time writing our mission statement together. Our Latino friends agreed to serve on our first
board. We knew who we meant when we said “we.” Recognizing that expanding our programs required us to
In February, we gathered in the Social Hall for an informal
signing ceremony—chalice, papers, and cake at the ready.
But did you notice something amiss in the first picture?
Trickster had arrived to have a final say in the proceedings.
Needless to say, Trickster arrives every day to disrupt
our plans, our assumptions, and our attachments to our
egos. Trickster arrives wherever there is a need to level
the playing field, make room for chance, or have a
good laugh at the absurdity of it all. We seized the
opportunity for a belly laugh as cake, candle wax, and
paper
continued to next page
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Fools Mission Shares the Plate on April 3
Our theme for April is salvation, and on Sunday, April 3, Fools Mission will Share the Plate to honor the
High Holy Day of fools. For us, the journey of the fool is profoundly salvific. As we walk with people
whose identities stand in the way of accessing the privileges we take for granted, we learn for ourselves—
firsthand—the meaning of abstract terms like “marginalized” or “underprivileged.” Hearts break open,
whether outcomes are favorable or not. (Oftentimes, the presence of people of privilege actually does
make a difference for the better.) Casting aside the necessity of calculated restraint, our emotional ranges
expand in all directions. As we share stories and food,
sing and dance, perform rituals, and learn how to
connect with social services, we’re surprised by how
much better we’re feeling about ourselves at the end of
the day. For us, salvation is a spiritual practice that
revolves around embracing a life of service.
Having appeased Trickster, we went ahead and signed,
anyway. Foolish is as foolish does.
Visit us at foolsmission.org
Last month a representative of Life
Moves, the recipient of our recent
Share the Plate collection, was
presented with a check from
UUFRC for $1,162 (presented by
Michael Withers). The funds will be
used to set up a bicycle repair station
at the Maple Street Shelter. Thank
you to all who gave so generously!
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Spring Workday is Coming! Saturday, April 16th, 9am-4pm
Mark your calendar and make plans to join us on Saturday, April 16th while we
work together to maintain the building and grounds.
There are tasks for every age and ability: special projects, painting, cleaning,
grounds care, and more! Lunch at noon.
Sign-ups in the Social Hall beginning in a few weeks.
Chris Stovall (Building Chair) and Michael Withers (Grounds Chair)
Happy Trails Hiking Club
April 2 we’ll do a reprise of our hike over the hills and vales of Garin/Dry Creek Pioneer Regional
Park. After all the rains, the hills are a bright Irish green and I’m hoping for lots and lots of
wildflowers. Bob Simoni, a fellow hiker and former member of UUFRC, will be leading this hike
near his home in Hayward.
You can choose to do the full 8-mile hike or a shorter, 5½ mile version. Here’s how that will
work: We’ll all drive to the main entrance at 1320 Garin Avenue, in Hayward. Those who want to
do the shorter hike will leave their cars here (parking fee $5). Then we’ll pack ourselves into the
remaining cars and drive around the top of the park to the Ziele Creek entrance where we’ll start
the hike.
We’ll hike along Ziele Creek gradually ascending 500 feet to the Vista Peak Loop Trail and then
hike down to Arroyo Flats and along Dry Creek to Meyer’s Cottage where we might take a little
time to explore the gardens. Then we’ll head back along the High Ridge Loop Trail (about a 500foot climb) and down to the main entrance where we will all eat lunch together in the picnic
area. Those doing the long hike will climb 1,000 feet up the Vista Peak Trail and back down
along Ziele Creek to our starting point.
Meet at the Fellowship at 8:45am to arrange carpools. I hope to arrive at the main park
entrance at 9:30am. Then it will take us 15-20 minutes to drive to the Ziele Creek entrance.
For those who would like to meet us at Ziele Creek, I hope we can all gather there at about
10am. Remember to bring water and lunch.
—Kaye Bonney
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Sunday Night Seekers: Adventures with the Sacred
Are you seeking spiritual growth? Do you suspect that there might be something beyond the
five-senses experience of the world? Do you feel drawn to live a more authentic life, even
though you might not be sure what that is? And would you like to spend time with others who
are exploring these same questions?
If so, you’re not alone. Albert Einstein, Emily Dickinson, John Nash, Beethoven, Buddha,
Tolkien, J.K. Rowling, Rumi, Martin Luther King, Teresa of Avila, Carl Jung, and countless others
have asked the same questions. If you would like to join like-minded folks at UUFRC with a
heart for adventure and a desire to cultivate personal and spiritual growth, come join the
Sunday Night Seekers, beginning Sunday April 17, 7:00-8:00 pm, at the Fellowship.
You can explore the rich topography of an inner life and discover a deeper sense of connection
to yourself, others, and the Universe. Contact Kai Marks at: [email protected].
Update on Roosevelt Tutoring and Outreach Committee April 2016
We had a interesting and thought-provoking discuss of Robert Putnam’s Our Kids: The American
Dream in Crisis with members and friends from Fools Mission on March 11.
Please come to our spring committee meeting on April 17th at noon in the Back Lounge. We
will discuss:
--our spring school supplies drive
--tutoring experiences at Roosevelt
--our committee’s goals and leadership
You don’t need to be a tutor to participate in the committee. All are welcome!
Contact Beth Harrison at [email protected] for more information or just show up.
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Please join us after the service on Sunday
April 24 at 1:00 pm to hear Mary Clear from
Todmorden, England discuss The Incredible
Edibles. Todmorden started with streetside
edible gardens at homes, moved on to public
spaces and now has become a
garden “destination” city replete with parades, a
Green Route, and festivals. The enthusiasm is
palpable.
Incredible Edible Redwood City was inspired by
the original Incredible Edible Todmorden whose
mission is:
"We are passionate people working together for
a world where all share responsibility for the
future wellbeing of our planet and ourselves.
We aim to provide access to good local food for
all, through
• working together
• learning – from field to classroom to
kitchen
• supporting local business
While Redwood City’s actions have been
modest, the group bears a message which
incites enthusiasm for shared food and shared
community that can encourage any
organization.
"Oh my gosh Buffy! Have you heard? Biff is going to ask Missy to
the Prom. She's so lucky! I hope I get to go too!"
That's right everyone, its the kick-off for the 2016 UUFRC Annual
Auction. Jessica Roybal is this year's Auction Chair. And if you haven't
guessed from what Buffy said above, the theme this year is UUFRC
PROM!
Please mark your calendar for Saturday, October 29. Start planning
your outfit now. We are all going to have some "way cool" fun! More
information to come…..
—Jessica Roybal
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April Fools! News from your Newsletter Editor
There’s talk again about changing the seating in the Sanctuary. John Anning has offered his
financial chutzpah for the purchase of bean bag chairs, in a stunning array of colors, for more
comfortable and musically attuned seating.
There’s been some interest in selling mimosas during the social/refreshment hour after service.
It would raise a lot of money for our budget, but it may aversely affect driving ability on the
way home from church. Gives a new meaning to “Light the Journey”.
Sara Morgan says she is willing to decorate the Social Hall for the spring, and even says she
will paint the whole thing herself if she can pick the color. Chartreuse? Hot pink? Charcoal?
The atrium will be removed and in its place there will be a parents napping area. Reports are
that Parents of small children are completely exhausted and are demanding a place to rest or
they won’t come to church anymore.
Reverend Stefanie is sponsoring a 5k Run and Box fundraiser. As you jog, you also spar
with your running partner. Unfortunately Reverend Stefanie cannot find a running partner due
to her strong right arm and deadly aim. Stay tuned.
Jorie Schulz is proposing having services at 9pm on Sunday nights so as Worship Chair she
can sleep in on Sunday mornings. The Worship Committee is threatening a strike should she
try to force this change into reality. Solveig Zarubin says: “Jorie is some kind of
megalomaniac and needs to be forcibly restrained.”
Although many feel we have enough committees to cover the needs of the congregation, John
Cooney is proposing a Committee on committees to evaluate committee progress, regulation,
and committee committee-ing. If you see John with a clipboard, I suggest you duck into a
closet.
Speaking of closets, we are on the look out for Carol Cross who said “I’m just going to look
for those rummage sale signs we put in the loft closets” and hasn’t been heard from in about 2
weeks. She is of average height, long beautiful hair, and wears fabulous tennis shoes.
In order to attract more families to the Fellowship, MOCA is instituting plans to lower the
refreshment table by about 2 feet for children’s easier access to the food.
Cindy Johnson’s art and card making workshop has been cancelled due to an avalanche of
scrapbooking paper, stickers and whatnot when she tried to unload her storage closet. Allen
heroically rescued her before he called 911.
And finally. . . to encourage the participation of 20-somethings at the Fellowship there will be a
video/strip poker/instagram/beer brewing/singles night in the Sanctuary this Sunday.
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Flowers and foliage from our new front garden area. Happy Spring !
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April 2016 Calendar of Events
April 2 Happy Trails Hiking Club 9am
OWL Gr. 7-9 at 5 pm
April 3 Celebration Sunday Pledge Drive
OWL for Parents 5 pm
Social Action Committee 11:50am
Council of Committee Chairs 12 noon
Sunday Night Seekers 7pm
April 18 Financial Committee 7pm
April 4 Book Group 7:30pm
April 19 Men’s C Group 7pm
April 5 Men’s C Group 7pm
April 20 Worship Committee 7pm
UUFRC/UUSM 7pm
April 21 Music Committee 6:30pm
April 6 Connections Committee 7pm
Choir Rehearsal 7:15pm
April 7 Choir Rehearsal 7:15pm
April 22 Pacific Central District Assembly
April 10 Meet the Board Chat 9am
April 23 Pacific Central District Assembly
Blessing of the Animals 10:30am
Fools of the Round Table/Breakfast
Meeting 8am
Welcome Circle 11:45am
Roosevelt Tutoring/Outreach 11:45am
Muugs/Youuth 12 Noon
Youth Life Subcommittee 4:30pm
OWL Gr. 7-9 5pm
Muugs/Youuth Sleepover 6:30pm
OWL for Parents 5pm
April 24 Incredible Edibles 1pm
April 14 Choir Rehearsal 7:15pm
OWL Gr. 7-9 at 5 pm
April 16 Spring Church Workday 8am
OWL for Parents 5 pm
April 17 UU101 at Noon
Sunday Night Seekers 7pm
Roosevelt Tutoring/Outreach 12 noon
April 27 Board of Trustees meeting 7pm
NET Money: Peninsula New
Economic Transition 2pm
April 28 Choir Rehearsal 7:15pm
April 30 Card Making Workshop 9am
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To add a subscription to our UUFRC email group, send any message to: [email protected] For helpful info about the group (no subscription needed), send any message to: [email protected]
Subscribers can post to the group by sending your message to [email protected]
UUFRC
Minister: the Reverend Stefanie S. Etzbach-Dale
[email protected]; Church Office: (650) 365-6913;
Cell telephone: (310) 413-7181
Administrator: Malia Fineasi (650) 365-6913
Director of Religious Education: Derby Davidson ([email protected]; 888-6067)
Youth Advisor - Jeri Joseph-Hover
(h)(650) 369-9010, (c) (650)281-9947
Pianists: Larry Chinn ([email protected]); Dawn Reyen ([email protected])
Connections Coordinator: Cindy Johnson
([email protected]; 364-4995)
Bookkeeper: Geri Kennedy ([email protected]; 516-8409)
Childcare Worker: Michael Green
Minister Emerita: the Reverend Julia H. Fankuchen ([email protected])
Unitarian Universalist Fellowship of Redwood City
2124 Brewster Avenue
Redwood City, CA 94062
Light the Journey
April 2016
Submissions for the May issue are due April 23, Saturday. This issue of the
RedwoodReachout is on our church website at www.uufrc.org under the
“Information” tab. If you are unable to access the church website, you may
contact our office to request a printed copy.
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