2015 May June Newsletter

Open Circle Unitarian
Universalist Fellowship
MAY/JUNE 2015
President’s Message
Dear Open Circle Friends,
The loss of a friend, a family member, a member of the
community is hard. Barb Moss was a gifted artist, a
good friend to many, and a member of the Open Circle
family. After a long struggle, she has left us. May we
remember her gifts, her talents, her love of nature, her
giving spirit, her positive attitude, her determination, her
strength.
Spring has arrived. The world is alive - crocus, tulip,
hosta, jack-in-the-pulpit, trillium, trout lily, mayapple,
marsh marigolds – spring flowers abound. This side of
nature is beautiful. Yet we learn of tragedy in Nepal –
earthquakes causing devastation and loss - our heart
goes out to those who suffer.
Thanks to members who attended the MidAmerica Regional Assembly – Lisette Aldrich, Mary Arrigoni, and Susanne Dennis – to represent Open Circle.
Thanks to the Common Grounds team for your report at
the Congregational Meeting. Great work!
Jeffrey Reed
Board President
Home: 920-926-1664
Work: 920-923-8759
Ministerial Meanderings
This essay represents some initial comments on a topic
that I plan to explore in greater depth in the near future.
This week, the United States Supreme Court will hear oral
Our new approach to Hospitality seems to be working.
arguments in a case which may determine whether conThanks to all who signed-up to help host our Sunday
stitutional or statutory bans on same sex marriage are
service refreshments. Thanks to Jane Dennis and comconstitutional in the United States. This case comes to
pany. Thanks to Barbara Lukas for her care of our
the Court in the context of a long string of largely successflower arrangements.
ful attacks on these bans in both Federal and State
courts. While the outcome at the Supreme Court is not
The board is finalizing our 2015-16 Budget, attempting
certain, supporters of same sex marriage are feeling
to anticipate contributions we will be receiving. If you
somewhat hopeful that they will prevail. It is likely that the
have not yet submitted your pledge, please do so by
Supreme Court’s decision will be issued in late June.
May 17.
While this case may settle the legal issues, the political,
religious and social questions are still uncertain. Recent
national polling suggests that as many as 59% of the
American people now support legalizing same sex marriage. This is up from 41% support just a few years ago.
Yale Law School Professor, William N. Eskridge Jr. reports in the New Yorks Times Week in Review (April 27,
2015) that the Episcopal Church, the United Church of
Christ, the Unitarian Universalist Association (yeah we
were actually mentioned for a change) and organizations
representing Reform and Conservative Judaism filed a
friend of the Court Brief presenting a religious perspective
Tom Schuppe and John McDowell have been investigating improvements in our physical environment such supporting invalidating the bans on same sex marriage.
as better sealing of the building and possible additional To be sure, many prominent conservative and evangelical
insulation. We are also exploring improved internet ser- Christian organizations have argued for their retention.
But opposition to marriage equality is no longer the only
vice and possible changes in vendors as well as im“religious” perspective.
proved monitoring of our solar generation.
To all who were there, thanks for your participation in
our Congregational Meeting on April 26. We look forward to the Open Circle Annual Meeting on Sunday,
May 31 following our Potluck. Key agenda items will
include approval of the 2015-16 budget, election of
board and Nominating committee members, feedback
on continued ministerial service, and review of the Common Grounds approach. All members are encouraged
to attend and participate. Members unable to attend
may select a proxy to represent them.
Our RE program has been excellent this year. Thanks
to Sara, Steve, Linda, Helen, Kris, Jerry, Liz … everyone helping with our RE activities.
Continued on next page...
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But as we have seen recently in Indiana, Arkansas and a number of other states, attempts are being made by opponents of same sex marriage to enact state “Religious Freedom Restoration” laws (RFRA) to protect persons and
businesses who might otherwise be subject to state civil rights laws (as is the case in Wisconsin) to discriminate
(refuse to do business with) same sex couples without legal liability.
While Indiana and Arkansas backed down (at least for the time being) it is highly likely that
these challenges will continue. Interestingly, it was pressure from the business community (both large and small
businesses) that seems to have been the decisive factor that caused the states the change their course.
I have not personally worked through all of the implications of these State RFRAs. To start with, I find them in substance offensive and would personally refuse to do business with any business that attempted to rely on such laws
to deny goods or services, of any kind, to LGBT persons, including same sex couples being married.
In addition, a very strong argument can be made that religious denominations, including Unitarian Universalists, that
support same sex marriage have been discriminated against by the very statutes and constitutional amendments
that deny equality of treatment for same sex and opposite sex couples. I would be more open to listening to the
arguments of proponents of State level RFRAs if they would drop their legal objections to marriage equality. And, I
have no sympathy with such laws that would allow public officials or publicly licensed professionals (such as
pharmacists and other medical personnel) to refuse to provide public services (such as the issuance of marriage licenses) or medical and other professional services because of personal and religious beliefs.
The more difficult issue may rest with the question of private, unlicensed businesses refusing to serve certain
classes of individuals because of so-called “religious” objections. Even here I believe that the RFRAs are on sticky
legal grounds. Certainly, no one would agree that such businesses should be able to discriminate on the basis of
race, religion, ethnicity, gender and other recognized protected classes. And states like Wisconsin include sexual
orientation as a protected class. Certainly a plausible legal and moral argument can be made to challenge such discrimination.
I guess what I am saying is that even if the cause of legal marriage equality prevails in the Supreme Court, the
cause of just treatment of all persons will probably remain wide open. But we must take heart from the remarkable
change in personal attitudes in just a few years that appear to make the cause of true equality a realizable goal in
our lifetimes. I look forward to see how the Court finally resolves these cases.
James A. Jaeger, M.Div. (Consulting Minister)
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ANNOUNCEMENT OF SPECIAL MEETINGS
GROWING A WELCOMING COMMUNITY
Please join the Board at an all-congregation workshop on Sunday, May17th in taking the first step in a
strategic planning process for planning the future of OCUUF after FUSION.
Marie Blohowiak, who is from the Fox Valley UU and does consulting in membership and ‘Growing a Welcoming
Community’,will meet with Board Members and any interested OpenCircle members on May 17th to do an assessment of membership and being a welcoming community.
The schedule: 10 AM Marie will attend the service:
11:30-12:30 lunch discussion (those attending, bring a dish to pass)
12:30-2:30 workshop. Please contact Lisette Aldrich if you plan to attend. I would like to see a membership
committee form out of this workshop. Contact Lisette at 251-0836 or [email protected] .
ALL-CONGREGATION ANNUAL MEETING
SUNDAY, MAY 31
Annual Meeting of OCUUF Members
11:30 AM (following the service) (Book Club will follow)
Draft Agenda
· Adoption of the Agenda
· Establishment of Quorum
· Approval of Rules of Procedure for the meeting
· Election of new Open Circle Board members
· Election of persons to serve on the Nominating Committee for 2015-16
· Approval of the 2015-2016 Open Circle Operating Budget
· Approval of the Common Grounds Framework
· Other business for the good of the order
Upcoming Earth Spirit Celebrations
Saturday May 2: Beltane Celebration at the home of Josh and Barb Moss: Celebrate spring with a May Pole
dance and Beltane ritual. Gathering from 4-5, Ritual about 5, Potluck feast after. Address W4716 County Road B,
Eden, WI, 53019. Please rsvp to Barb:[email protected]; (920) 203 6594 or Josh: (920) 293-5699
Anyone interested in earth-centered spirituality and celebrating the turning of the seasons is welcome.
All Earth Spirit events are Alcohol-free. Children are welcome if supervised (and they may really enjoy the May
Pole dance!)
What about Summer Solstice?
Earth Spirit’s leaders, Josh and Barb Moss will be attending the Pagan Spirit Gathering, so Earth Spirit is not planning a Summer Solstice Ritual at this time. If you know of summer solstice celebrations that the Open Circle community might like to know about, please send this information to [email protected] to be included in Open
Circle’s weekly email announcements.
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RESULTS OF CONGREGATIONAL SURVEY
SPRING 2015
Regarding the recent survey invitation sent out to OCUUF members and friends, 29 survey returns were received
and tallied.
Almost 85% of survey respondents reported being More Satisfied (38%) or Very Satisfied (46%) overall with OCUUF Sunday programming.
For most of the items representing service types, service elements, and service themes and content, over half of
the respondents indicated that these items were “OK as is”, with these exceptions:
64% - more 7 principles content
57% - more choir appearances
55% - more instrumental music
51% - more on death and other life challenges
50% - more visiting minister services
50% - more UU history content
48% - more social justice themes
My Reasons for staying involved with OCUUF – top 3
25.6% Fellowship/ Other Members
22.2% New Ideas/ Intellectual Stimulation
18.9% Worship/Sunday Programming
What I think is most important for OCUUF to grow – top 4 (2 tied for 2nd)
22.9% Quality Minister
13.3% Worship/Sunday Programming
13.3% Welcoming & Hospitality
12.0% Leadership/Management
What I think we do best now – top 5 (3 tied for 3rd)
22.0% Worship/Sunday Programming
18.3% Fellowship/ Other Members
11.0% New Ideas/ Intellectual Stimulation
11.0% Religious Education for Children
11.0% Leadership/Management
What I think we need most to improve – top4 (2 tied for 3rd)
22.2% Quality Minister
18.1% Spiritual Guidance
12.5% New Ideas/ Intellectual Stimulation
12.5% Music
Not surprisingly, over 85% responded that, if cost were no object, they would prefer at least a half-time minister, but
only a quarter said a full-time minister. A little more surprising was that over 2/3rds said they would like to move up
to a half-time minister.
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ECO FOOD COMMITTEE
and
GREEN SANCTUARY TEAM MERGES
At the last meeting of the Eco Food committee, it was decided to merge the efforts of the two OCUUF
groups. Their new name is “Earth Justice Now”. Please consider joining them
!
Earth Justice Now Mission:
Motivate individuals to live sustainably and ethically.
Connect individual choices to the health and well-being of the earth.
Inspire all to live in a way that respects the sacred in soil, air, and water and the finite nature of earth’s
inhabitants and resources.
First Meeting: Saturday, May 30th
Light Breakfast at 8 AM, followed by meeting 8:30—10 AM
New Members Welcome!
Home of Jeanne & John McDowell, 77 Eastbrook Lane—RSVP Please
Fond du Lac Food Pantry
Peanut Butter Drive and Donation
Once again, our congregation collected over 100 pounds of peanut butter during our March food drive.
The jars came in all shapes and sizes and totaled 123.5 lbs.
In addition to the peanut butter, we collected $57.50 for the Fond du Lac Food Pantry, our March Special Collection recipient. Generous efforts for a small congregation.
Thank you all for you generosity!
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Nominating Committee Seeks Volunteers to Serve on 2015-2016 Board of
Directors and Nominating Committee
The Nominating Committee is seeking volunteers to serve on our Board of Directors and Nominating
Committee for terms beginning July 1, 2015.
Four Board positions are open including Vice President, Treasurer and two members at large. It is possible we may be seeking a Secretary if our current Secretary moves to another Board position. Board terms
are two years. Officers serve in their particular position for one year, but can be chosen to continue in their
officer position. (The current Board may also consider whether any current members who are remaining
on the Board will shift to these open officer positions.)
The Nominating Committee consists of three individuals. Their job is to nominate candidates for open
Board positions and for the next year's Nominating Committee. They are also responsible for identifying
and helping to develop new leaders by recommending them for UUA Midwest Region leadership development opportunities and by providing leadership development opportunities at Open Circle.
If you are interested in serving on the Board or Nominating Committee or would like to suggest candidates, please contact any member of the Nominating Committee. Board member, Officer and Nominating
Committee job descriptions are available from any member of the Nominating Committee. :
Judy [email protected] or 922-3258;
Paisley [email protected] or 251-2373;
Earl Jewett: [email protected] or 923-2604.
Upcoming Earth Spirit Celebrations
Beltane
Saturday May 2: Beltane Celebration at the home of Josh and Barb Moss: Celebrate spring with a May Pole
dance and Beltane ritual. Gathering from 4-5, Ritual about 5, Potluck feast after. Address W4716 County
Road B, Eden, WI, 53019. Please rsvp to Barb:[email protected]; (920) 203 6594 or Josh: (920) 293-5699
Anyone interested in earth-centered spirituality and celebrating the turning of the seasons is welcome.
All Earth Spirit events are Alcohol-free. Children are welcome if supervised (and they may really enjoy the
May Pole dance!)
What about Summer Solstice?
Earth Spirit’s leaders, Josh and Barb Moss will be attending the Pagan Spirit Gathering, so Earth Spirit is
not planning a Summer Solstice Ritual at this time. If you know of summer solstice celebrations that the
Open Circle community might like to know about, please send this information
to [email protected] to be included in Open Circle’s weekly email announcements.
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middle school re
Service schedule
May
1st & 3rd Sundays—11:30 AM
5/3
5/17
6/7
Begin Work on Credo w/Mentors
Practice Credo w/Mentors
Coming of Age Service—10 AM
5/3 Rev. Scott Prinster
Better than Human: Transhumanism
Coordinated by Mary Arrigoni
5/10 Linda Holloway
The Injustice of it All
Coordinated by Paisley Harris
Elementary re
5/17 Consulting Minister Jim Jaeger
May Sarton: Unitarian Poet and Essayist
Coordinated by Sylvia Reed
Meets Every Sunday at 10 AM
LAST RE CLASS OF THIS SEASON
5/24 Myron Eshowsky
Compassion in Spiritual Service
Coordinated by Sylvia Reed
Adult re
5/24
9 AM—Your Health, Your Way, presented
by Kurt and Lisa Belzer
5/31 Potluck &
Congregational Meeting
June
6/7 Consulting Minister Jim Jaeger
“Coming of Age”
Coordinated by Kris Evert
6/14 Michael Schuler
“How Level the Playing Field?”
Coordinated by Lisette Aldrich
6/21 Dr. Brian Smith
Coordinated by Audrey Linn
6/28 Flower Communion
OCUUF 0N YOUTUBE
OCUUF now has a YouTube site page.
Additional material will be added on a regular basis. The videos will typically be loaded by the
Thursday evening following the service.
For additional information on all RE Programs,
Contact Steve Cornelius at (402) 658-0000 or
[email protected].
Check it out. Here is the link to the OCUUF YouTube website. https://www.youtube.com/user/
ocuuf
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OCUUF
COMMIITTEES
Book/Video Club
Purpose and description
The purpose of the book club is to create connections (beloved
community) between attendees, be they UU members or new
people just interested din being in a book club and meeting other
people. Stimulating conversation is a given. The open group that
meets monthly throughout the year chooses the next month’s
film/book based on the discussion of the current month attendees.
Caring Circles
Mission
The mission of the Open Circle Caring Circle is to provide short
term, personal and compassionate member-to-member support as
needs arise, with such things as meals, transportation, child care,
respite care, and notes and cards.
Note: Caring Circle vs. Lay Pastoral Care: The Caring Circle
differs from lay pastoral care in that the latter provides more specialized services to support members in time of grief, marital
changes, unemployment, etc. Lay pastoral care requires more indepth training for volunteers than does the wring Circle. Open
Circle does not provide pastoral care at this time.
messages about Open Circle. This poses challenges as well as opportunities. The committee seeks to reflect and respect the diversity of
beliefs within the Fellowship as well as our UU Principles, while
maintaining cohesion in the overall appearance of the building.
Eco-Food and Green Sanctuary Groups have
merged: Now “Earth Justice”
Mission Statement
The mission of the Committee is to:

Motivate individuals to live sustainably and ethically.
 Connect individual choices to the health and well-being of the
earth.
 Inspire all to live in a way that respects the sacred in soil, air, and
water and the finite nature of earth’s inhabitants and resources.
Regular Ongoing Activities


Coordinate the Harvest Brunch and other food-related events
at Open Circle.
Provide food-related environmental and social justice educational events at Open Circle and in the community, sometimes partnering with other churches, Marian U., UW-FDL,
and other like-minded organizations.

Promote local growers and their sustainably grown produce.

Provide one OCUUF service a year.

Participate in community fairs, etc., to distribute information.

Encourage school and family vegetable gardening.
Common Grounds Team

Write column for OCUUF newsletter
Common Ground Team Charge:

Promote Meatless Monday campaign.


The common ground team is charged with establishing and
periodically updating guidelines for conflict resolution in
OCUUF.
This team is empowered to make recommendations to the
board and congregation about ways to promote and improve
a healthy beloved community.

It will also be available as mediators and a resource to the
OCUUF community.
Common Ground Team Mission Statement (proposed draft):
To keep the Covenant of Community a living presence in our fellowship life, serving as a resource to facilitate positive communication and relationships.
Decorating (Décor)
Purpose and Scope of the committee
The Décor Committee is charged with creating and maintaining a
functional, attractive and welcoming space at Open Circle UU
Fellowship. The committee selects and places the furnishings,
decorative art, and accessories within the building and selects
wall color and flooring. While the building/ maintenance committee has responsibility for maintaining the building structure,
modifications that impact the appearance of the building will be
done in collaboration with the Décor Committee.
The committee is mindful that our building “communicates” many
Facilities
Purpose and Goals of Committee:
The purpose of the facilities committee is to provide and oversee the
maintenance of the OCUUF building. This includes making minor repairs to ensure that no major damage or deterioration occurs unnecessarily and hiring professionals when needed.
Regular Ongoing Activities:

Look at ceiling tiles to insure that there are no hidden water leaks.
Check roof.


Check the inside and outside water drains.
Check for any plumbing issues – leaks, clogged drains
(Remember clogged toilet and the almost destruction of our building!)

Maintain heating system. Install filters; check fans, monitor temperature controls and so on.




Replace light bulbs.
Contact, meet and follow up with repair people.
Assess need for building and parking improvements.
Arrange for snow and ice removal.
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Plan for the Year (2013-14):
Nominating

Continue regular maintenance.
Purpose (as defined in the ByLaws, Article VII)
The nominating committee is responsible to

Investigate snow removal options for the coming winter.

Communicate with cleaning staff when needed.



Clean back storage area. (Need to alert people to remove items)

Confer with the Board to fill any Board vacancies which occur
between annual meetings.

Determine if there is a need for any capital improvement projects. 
Recommend candidates to serve on the nominating committee
Assist the Board in identifying candidates for leadership train-
ing
Green Sanctuary (Now Part of “Earth Justice”)
The purpose in forming the Green Sanctuary committee was to
seek UUA Green Sanctuary certification status and to devise an
action plan that would aligh with OCUUF’s mission of being a
transforming presence in FDL with regard to environmental issues.
Hospitality
Responsibility
Make coffee and tea and arrange refreshments for after-service
“coffee hour.” Host coffee hour and clean kitchen area afterwards including washing dishes, saving leftover food, disposing
of trash and taking home laundry. Coffee hour can last about one
hour. Chair will oversee host assignments and first-Sunday refreshments. Chair will also purchase supply of coffee, tea, some
fruit juice drinks and paper products.
New to UU (Membership)
Purpose
The task of the Team is to welcome newcomers to the Fellowship, help them to learn about Unitarian Universalism and Open
Circle UU Fellowship, and support them in making decisions
about their commitment to the Unitarian Universalist faith and
Open Circle.
In fulfilling its task, the New to UU Team will do the following:

Recruit and coordinate a team of greeters who will greet people,
watching for newcomers and asking that they sign the Newcomer/
Guest book and introducing newcomers to at least one other person at
the service

Send an e-mail greeting the week following signing the newcomer book


Recommend candidates for Board positions

Assist in the development of congregational leaders.
Ministerial Leadership Committee
(Charge to the Committee Feb. 2012)
The Ministerial Leadership Committee is charged with leading
the Open Circle UU Fellowship in the consideration of retaining ongoing ministerial leadership for the Fellowship. The
committee will lead a Fellowship conversation and assessment
relating to views within the Fellowship regarding the pros and
cons of seeking ongoing ministerial leadership and the skills,
traits, and expectation the Fellowship would have for a staff
minister. The Committee will work with the Central Midwest
District staff to obtain information about the costs and process
of obtaining ministerial leadership and educate the Fellowship
on these matters. The committee will ready out to neighboring fellowships to explore the possibility of shared ministry
and lead the discussion of how a shared position might work if
there is identified interest in pursuing this option.
Status: As of June 2014, the committee has completed its work
and was disbanded.
Religious Education
Purpose and Scope of the committee
Mission Statement:
The mission of the Religious Education program of the Open
Circle Unitarian Universalist Fellowship is to nurture and
honor the continual spiritual growth and identity of our children, youth and families. Our congregation-centered program
provides a living faith foundation based on UU principles and
sources. We encourage children to develop their own personal
beliefs and we celebrate the diversity of religious traditions.
Together we are a force for justice and love in this community
and the larger world.
Scope:
Monitor availability of name tags
Make a personal contact with those who have attended approximately 3 to 5 times extending an invitation for coffee or to attend an
OCUUF small group gathering (e.g., WOW, Men’s Group, Book
Club)

Coordinate at least yearly offering of UU101 program and offer
other educational opportunities, such as Articulating Your UU Faith,
as needed.
Continued on next page...
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Service Planning

Religious Education for Children and youth, ranging from preschool, through elementary, middle school and high school youth.

Adult R.E. is not within the scope of this committee.
A primary focus has been on younger children.
Committee Goals (2013-14)

Staffing has been redefined and new job descriptions have been
developed for a RE Elementary Teacher and a RE Coordinator.


Committee Charge
The Service Planning Committee is charged with assuring that
quality services or other spirituality education or nourishing
fellowship activities are programmed for each Sunday service
time during the service year. In addition to coordinating service activities, the Committee seeks feedback from fellowship
participants to help align programs with fellowship preferences.
Committee members are also responsible to identify and address needs related to services, e.g., songbooks, candles, batteries for microphones, etc.
Hire RE Elementary Teacher.
Hire RE Coordinator. It is expected that this person will focus on Social Justice Committee
day-to-day RE activities, engaging families, and working with teachPurpose
ers.
 Provide opportunities for the OCUUF community to explore
 Strengthen the program.
social justice issues
Support the Middle and High School groups.
 Explore injustice in the community and the world
Regular and Ongoing Activities of the Committee (defined by the
committee)
 Seek creative solutions to social injustice
Attention is paid to development of policies and procedures, working  Engage the OCUUF community in the search for a more just
with staff.
and peaceful world
Plan for the year (2013-14)
Child Care. Spruce up / redecorate the Child Care Room. Katie
Lavrenz has developed a plan which will be discussed at the RE
Meeting on Monday evening. Then it will be shared with the Décor
Committee. Jane Dennis has volunteered to donate the funds for
painting the room. Committee would like to ask for donations –
“Wish List.”
Social Justice Framework

 Human Rights/ Diversity (GLBT equality/ UUA Welcoming
Congregation, Racial Equality/ UUA Journey Toward Wholeness
Initiative, women’s rights and safety, power issues)

Moves – Elementary Classroom & Minister’s Office. It is okay
to proceed to move. Concerns: Need classroom next Sunday (9/15)
and first Sunday in October. Please make moves to they do not prevent RE classes from being held.

Elementary Program. Lisa Hunt is teaching until a new teacher
can be hired.
Areas for Action
The Fellowship identified the following broad areas of interest
(examples are not comprehensive):

Economic Justice (living wage, globalization, CROP Walk,
Guest at the Table)

Environment (highway cleanup, UUA Green Sanctuary Program,
eco-spirituality, farming and pesticides)
 Middle School Program. Kris Evert will be coordinating the program and arranging field trips. She would like the assistance of the
 Peace Activism (exit strategy for Iraq, peace rallies)
Consulting Minister for background and support on education relating
 Public Square (citizen education, public education, civil liberto other faiths.
ties, partner churches)
 High School Program. Earl Jewett and John Morris are working
with this group.
Components of Social Justice Work within the UU Tradition
Youth Room Decoration. Room between Kitchen and Front Room
Social justice work within the Fellowship should be mindful of
was designated as a space for Youth. (It is not “exclusively” a youth
these four components:
room, others may use it from time-to-time.) As discussed with the
Décor Committee on Aug. 19, youth should have input in the appear-  Education (of action group and the fellowship)
ance of their room. They are welcome to make suggestions and develop a plan. The plan should be reviewed with the Décor Committee  Engagement (of those being served and with the larger commuwho has overall responsibility for the building’s appearance.
nity)

Sustainability (how will the group carry on past current members and/or define success or completion of the project)
 Spirituality (how does this work foster spiritual growth/ how
will spirituality be embedded in the work of the group?)
Continued on next page...
10
Get involved at ocuuf!
Women’s Coffee Group—WOW (Women of Wisdom)
usually meets on the first Monday of each month. Location
OCUUF. The group will meet at 10 AM on Monday, May
4th and June 1st.
Men’s Coffee Group - MOP (Men of Power)
The OCUUF Men’s Group usually meets on the first Sunday
of every month at OCUUF at 8:00 AM. Please contact John
McDowell for further information regarding events for this
group. He can be reached at [email protected]. The
group will meet on Sunday, May 3rd and June 7th.
RE (Religious Education)
Elementary RE classes are held every Sunday at 10 AM,
September through June. Middle School (MS) RE meeting
dates are the 1st and 3rd Sundays.. Childcare is also available every Sunday, September through June.
Book/Video Club: The club will next meet on Sunday, May
31 to discuss “The Unexpected Universe” by Loren Elsely.
Soup and salad will be available.
The Earth Justice Now team has provided two of six adult
education programs on Sundays at 9 AM before the service.
3 programs in the Fall, 3 in the Spring, on topics such as
healthy eating, social justice issues of restaurant workers,
sustainable agriculture and other food-related social and
environmental justice topics.
EarthSpirit is a group for those who have an interest in
Earth/Nature-centered spirituality, including Wiccan, Native American and other Pagan paths. The group celebrates
the eight Pagan Sabbats with a gathering, ritual, and potluck
feast. The group will host a Beltane Celebration at 4 PM on
May 2nd at home of Barb and Josh Moss. Please RSVP.
For additional information, please see the calendars
provided in this newsletter and more up-to-date information provided on the OCUUF website calendar at
www.ocuuf.org
Ocuuf committees
continued
Framework
When at least four Open Circle UU Fellowship members identify an
issue or project to which they are committed they may be recognized
as an Open Circle Social Justice Team by identifying themselves to
the Board and providing the Board with a brief description of the
issue they will address, plan for implanting the four components of
social justice work identified above, and the plans fit with the UU
Principles. Active social justice teams will keep the fellowship informed of their work and provide a brief summary of their activities
at the end of each program year (June 30) and plans for the forthcoming year. Social justice teams are encouraged to plan and lead a Sunday service annually.
Open Circle encourages work within larger community groups and /
or reaching outside our Fellowship to partner with others in working
for social justice.
Some social justice initiatives may require a greater commitment
of the larger fellowship than others (i.e. undertaking a UUA program that entails commitment and action of the Fellowship as a
whole such as Welcoming Congregation or Journey Toward
Wholeness) and the Board will work with active social justice
teams in setting priorities for such initiatives.
The number and activities of teams will be reflective of the interests, passions, and commitments of members. Development of
teams should be undertaken thoughtfully to support effectiveness, sustainability (of the overall social justice program), and
the spiritual dimension of this work.
BARB MOSS FUNraiser &
Memorial service
May 16, 2015 2—7 PM
A Benefit for the family of Barbara Moss, who lost her
battle with Stage 4 Metastatic Breast Cancer, will be held
at Open Circle UU on May 16, 2015. All money raised
will enable help Barb’s family defray the many expenses
they face at this time.
A Memorial Service, led by Chris Portenga, will be held
at 6 PM. Both at OCUUF.
Open to the Public
11
MAY 2015
SUNDAY
MONDAY
TUESDAY
3
Men’s Coffee-MOP
Group 8:00 AM
4
5
Women’s
Coffee Group
(WOW) 10
10 AM Service Rev. AM
Scott Prinster, Better Than Human
WEDNESDAY
Thursday
Friday
Saturday
1
2 Beltane
Celebration
4—7 PM,
Moss Home
6
7
8
9
13
14
15
16
Barb Moss
FUNraiser 2-6
PM;
Memorial
Service 6 PM
10AM Elem RE
11:30 AM MS RE
Work on Credo
With Mentors
10
10 AM Service
Linda Holloway
‘The Injustice of it
All”
11
12
OFFICE
HOURS w/Jim
Jaeger 5-6:30
PM
10 AM
Elem RE
17
10 AM
Service,
Consulting Minister
Jim Jaeger - May
Sarton
10 AM
Elem RE-Last class
11:30-2:30 Workshop w/Marie Blohowiak
11:30 AM
MS RE
Board Meeting
6:30 PM
18
20
21
22
23
26
27
28
29
30
United for
Diversity 6:30
PM
24
25
9 AM Adult RE
“Your Health, Your
Way”
10 AM
Service Myron
EshowskyCompassion in
Spiritual Service to
Humanity
31
Potluck & Annual
Congregational
Meeting
11:30 AM Book
Club, “The Unexpected Universe “
byLoren Elsely
19
12
JUNE 2015
SUNDAY
MONDAY
1 Women’s
Coffee Group
(WOW) 10
AM
7
8
Mens Coffee
Group (MOP)
8 AM
TUESDAY
WEDNESDAY
2
3
4
5
6
9
10
Board Meeting
6:30 PM
11
12
13
.
10 AM
Service RE &
Jim Jaeger
“Coming of
Age”
Thursday
Friday
Saturday
OFFICE
HOURS w/Jim
Jaeger 5-6:30
PM
14
10 AM
Service
Michael
Schuler,
“How Level
the Playing
Field?”
15
16
17
18
19
20
21
10 AM
Service, Dr.
Brian Smith
22
23
24
25
26
27
28
10 AM
Flower
Communion
29
30
13
OPEN CIRCLE UNITARIAN UNIVERSALIST FELLOWSHIP
Board Meeting Minutes
FEBRUARY 16, 2015
6:30 PM
BOARD MEMBERS PRESENT:
Jeff Reed, President; Lisette Aldrich, Vice President (via phone); John Morris, Secretary; Sylvia Reed, and Linda Kirk, Mary Arrigoni,
Members at Large; and Jim Jaeger, Consulting Minister, Jeanne McDowell, Treasurer (via phone)
BOARD MEMBER ABSENT:
GUESTS: Steve Cornelius, Jane Dennis
OPENING REFLECTION AND CHALICE LIGHTING: Provided by Jim #488 from hymnal
CHECK-IN:
An ongoing agenda item that allows members to each briefly share with others how they are feeling this day, update on things going on,
provide each other with support and understanding, and perhaps aid in the releasing of some significant things, which then allows us to have
a productive and spirit-filled meeting.
AGENDA REVIEW:
Add discussion about chalice circles.
SECRETARY REPORTS:
Minutes of the Jan 14, 2015 Board Meeting minutes were reviewed. MOTION: Accept the Jan 14, 2015 meeting minutes. Moved by:
Mary Seconded by: Lisette approved unanimously
Sylvia will discuss Jim’s pay and ordering decal with Jane R tomorrow. – Pay resolved, Sylvia could not find a UUA Welcoming Congregation sticker, we can check with Paisley to see if she had something in mind.
Steve will ask for list of people approved to work with children from Terry Keuler - Done
Steve will discuss installing locks on RE rooms with Jeff Reese – Jeff waiting for John McDowell to discuss.
Jeff will make an announcement at the Jan 18th service about fusion suspension and lead a post-service Q&A - Done
Jeff will write announcement on fusion suspension for publication in the Jan 23 rd weekly announcements. - Done
TREASURER’S REPORT:
Jeanne submitted treasurer’s report which was reviewed by Sylvia. Question about solar effect on power bill, Sylvia will follow up.
Approval moved by: Lisette Seconded by: Mary approved unanimously
HOSPITALITY COMMITTEE REPORT
Goals for 2015-16
Jane suggested a model of having 6 people take responsibility for a given month, not getting many volunteers to commit to making
coffee, cleaning up, and some light refreshments. Other model would be to have certain groups take responsibility. Another suggestion was
having some mandatory requirement of members. Jim suggested thanking those that have helped with the service during announcements.
Lisette has been organizing the greeters. Jeff will make an announcement on Sunday and Jane will submit an announcement for the newsletter.
Flowers – Barbara Lucas has offered to provide the flowers
New Programs/Projects, if any
Budget adequacy
Questions, concerns
FACILITIES AND DÉCOR COMMITTEE
After the board discussed combining these committees, the committees responded that they would prefer to stay separate with Howie Zanto
acting as a liaison between the 2 committees. The board is fine with set up.
BUILDING USE
Reviewed the cost structure of the building use, question about the time that is covered by the building use. Definite agreement on child
care needing to be provided by OCUUF approved staff. Made some changes dropping the per hour usage and custodial fee. Sylvia will
incorporate the discussed changes into a new revision and then discuss at a future meeting.
Continued on next page...
14
OPEN CIRCLE 10TH ANNIVERSARY
Board agrees that we should have a celebration, and it was suggested that we create a task force. June 19 th 2005 is the date of our application. After the water communion was suggest (Sept 13 th or Sept 20th). Should also consider the Bowman’s availability and Packers
schedule, may still consider June celebration.
CONSULTING MINISTER’S REPORT:
Planning Articulating Our UU Faith – 4 Tuesdays starting March 24 until April 14; need to start getting word out about it. Prairie Lakes
is planning on doing OWL class in spring. Regional Assembly – April 17 and18th in Naperville, hoping that a group from OCUUF will
be able to attend. Not planning on going to General Assembly this summer.
RE COMMITTEE REPORT
Child care teachers were let go due to lack of need; RE helper can cover child care if necessary, and possibly adult helpers. Minta and
Patty are interested in helping out for special events and understand our need to cut due to our lack of need. This will save $100/month.
OTHER BUSINESS
Discussed Chalice Circles and how they are going. Will we be reorganizing the circles, and would we want to have some circles for different age groups. The board will assess this spring by asking for a report from the facilitators
REVIEW OF NEW ACTION ITEMS:
1. Sylvia will look at effect of solar panels on power bill.
2. Jeff will make an announcement on Sunday and Jane will submit an announcement for the newsletter about signing up as a group for
the month of hospitality.
3. Sylvia will incorporate the discussed changes of the building use policy into a new revision and then discuss at a future meeting.
4. Lisette will inquire about the Bowman’s interest in being involved in the 10 th anniversary celebration.
5. Jeff will have Jane put announcement out about Regional Assembly with a link to mid-america region website.
6. Jeff will ask circle facilitators to report back
CLOSING:
The board meeting was concluded at 8:55.
CHECK OUT AND ADJOURNMENT:
Linda was Time Keeper. Lisette was process observer. Everyone checked out.
Next Meeting March 11th, 6:30 pm
Respectfully submitted,
John Morris,
Board Secretary
OPEN CIRCLE UNITARIAN UNIVERSALIST FELLOWSHIP
Board Meeting Minutes
MARCH 11, 2015
6:30 PM
BOARD MEMBERS PRESENT:
Jeff Reed, President; Lisette Aldrich, Vice President; John Morris, Secretary; Sylvia Reed, and Linda Kirk, Mary Arrigoni, Members at
Large; and Jim Jaeger, Consulting Minister,
BOARD MEMBER ABSENT: Jeanne McDowell, Treasurer
GUESTS: Steve Cornelius, Suzanne Dennis
OPENING REFLECTION AND CHALICE LIGHTING: Provided by Lisette
CHECK-IN:
An ongoing agenda item that allows members to each briefly share with others how they are feeling this day, update on things going on,
provide each other with support and understanding, and perhaps aid in the releasing of some significant things, which then allows us to
have
a productive and spirit-filled meeting.
AGENDA REVIEW:
Continued on next page...
15
SECRETARY REPORTS:
Minutes of the Feb 16, 2015 Board Meeting minutes were reviewed. MOTION: Accept the Feb 16, 2015 meeting minutes. Moved by:
Lisette Seconded by: Mary approved unanimously
Review of Action Items
1. Sylvia will look at effect of solar panels on power bill. NOT FORMALLY FINISHED
2. Jeff will make an announcement on Sunday and Jane will submit an announcement for the newsletter about signing up as a group for the
3. month of hospitality. DONE
3. Sylvia will incorporate the discussed changes of the building use policy into a new revision and then discuss at a future meeting. DONE
4. Lisette will inquire about the Bowman’s interest in being involved in the 10 th anniversary celebration. DONE
5. Jeff will have Jane put announcement out about Regional Assembly with a link to mid-america region website. DONE
6. Jeff will ask circle facilitators to report back NOT DONE
TREASURER’S REPORT:
Jeanne submitted prior to meeting, Sylvia presented. Looks like we are tracking well for where we are in the year. Energy bill seemed
high for month, hopefully additional insulation will reduce that.
Approval moved by: John Seconded by: Lisette approved unanimously
HOSPITALITY COMMITTEE REPORT
Jane organized a committee of 6 people to spread out the work. Started the monthly team approach, didn’t necessarily figure out the
monthly team leader. Barbara Lukas will work on flowers, hoping that the hospitality budget could be increased by $100 annually. If
people are interested in donating for the flowers, say in honor of someone’s birthday, they can arrange that with Barbara. For the
remainder year Jeff proposed a special expenditure of $50, Sylvia seconded, pass unanimously.
DÉCOR COMMITTEE
Furniture for entry way purchased for about $1500, looking at having some artwork painted on walls of that the entry way.
CONFLICT RESOLUTION POLICY
Draft policy was sent out prior to meeting that was developed by the Common Grounds team. The policy was based on Interest Based
Conflict Resolution that Earl Jewett is trained in and has used with other groups, and will serve as an appendix to the policy. Others on
the Common Grounds team would also be trained in this methodology. Board went through page-by-page with major focuses on
confidentiality and record destruction. The 5 member group that developed the policy have agreed to act as the initial Common Grounds
team with staggered terms. Suggested changes were to align with the “church” year so new members would join team in July. The CGT
will nominate new members and the board will approve those changes.
MEMBERSHIP CONSULTING PROPOSAL
Received a proposal from the FVUUF Congregational Life Coordinator who can provide membership consulting. Roger Berchhausen
recommended her and attributed much of their growth to her contributions. Sylvia moved to spend $50 for an initial assessment, seconded
by Linda, passed unanimously. This expense will charged against the administration line, a new line for next year will be considered for
membership administration.
BUILDING USE
Discussed changes Sylvia made to Facility Use form. Board requested more clarity on the form for the Security deposit; the total use fee
should be paid ahead of time with the addition of the security deposit that could be returned if the facility was left in acceptable condition
after the event. Action item: Sylvia will incorporate the discussed changes into a new revision.
PLANNING FOR CONGREGATIONAL & ANNUAL MEETINGS
Jeff reviewed last year’s materials for the Congregation and Annual Meeting. We have about 6 weeks to get prepared. May 31 st will be
date for the Annual Meeting, April 26th will be the Congregational Meeting. Already one item on bylaws that should be changed is the
requirement to mail the announcement since we already have been handing them out after services. ACTION ITEM: Jeff will e-mail
Annual Meeting materials to Board members. Sylvia will put together a proposed budget for the year.
PLANNING FOR THE FUTURE: STRATEGIC PLANNING
Given that we are not looking at fusion any more, we need to do some visioning for our strategic plan. PLUUF has just gone through such
a process, involving a consultant. Discussed best time, probably after the consultant assessment and during the summer when many will
have more time and the snowbirds will be back
Continued on next page...
16
OPEN CIRCLE 10TH ANNIVERSARY
Sept 13th after the Water Communion.
CONSULTING MINISTER’S REPORT:
March 24 Articulating Your UU Faith will start and run for 4 consecutive Tuesdays. Jim is interested in coming back for another year under
the same terms.
RE COMMITTEE REPORT
Child care just starting without the adult child care providers. There is a list of 6 OCUUF members that can will be in the child care room
if there are children to help the teen child care providers.
OTHER BUSINESS
N/A
REVIEW OF NEW ACTION ITEMS:
Jeff will ask circle facilitators to report back.
Sylvia will incorporate the discussed changes into a new revision building use policy.
Jeff will e-mail Annual Meeting materials to Board members.
Sylvia will put together a proposed budget for the year.
CLOSING:
The board meeting was concluded at 8:42.
CHECK OUT AND ADJOURNMENT:
Mary was Time Keeper. Steve was process observer. Everyone checked out.
Next Meeting April 8, 6:30 pm
Respectfully submitted,
John Morris,
Board Secretary
17
Unitarian Universalist
Guiding Principals
1. The inherent worth and dignity of every person;
2. Justice, equity, and compassion in human relations;
3. Acceptance of one another and encouragement to spiritual growth in our congregations;
4. A free and responsible search for truth and meaning;
5. The right of conscience and the use of the democratic process within our congregations and in
society at large;
6. The goal of world community with peace, liberty, and justice for all;
7. Respect for the interdependent web of all existence of which we are a part.
Open circle mission statement
We come together as Open Circle Unitarian Universalist Fellowship, open to experiencing transcendent mystery and wonder, honoring diversity and religious freedom.
We come to pursue Unitarian Universalism’s prophetic vision of peace, justice, compassion and sustainability and to create Beloved Community.
Open
Circle
Vision
Statement
To be a
transforming
presence in the
lives of
individuals and
the
Fond du Lac
community.
Contact Information
Open Circle Unitarian Universalist Fellowship
19 E Third St
Fond du Lac WI 54935
Phone: (920) 924-8598
Email: [email protected]
Consulting Minister
Jim Jaeger,
[email protected]
Board Members:
President: Jeff Reed
Vice President: Lisette
Aldrich
Secretary: John Morris
Treasurer: Jeanne
McDowell
Members-at-Large: Mary
Arrigoni, Linda Kirk, Sylvia
Reed
Committees and Chairs
New to UU Team: Lisette Aldrich
Religious Education: Steve Cornelius
Service Planning: Audrey Linn
Hospitality: Jane Dennis
Facilities: John McDowell
Eco Food Group: Karen LindbergSchuppe
Men’s Group: J. McDowell & T. Schuppe
Green Sanctuary: John McDowell
Décor: Bev Gudex
Book/Video Club: Diana Beck
Women’s Coffee Group: Mary Arrigoni
Nominating: Judy Goldsmith, Paisley
Harris, Earl Jewett
Earth Spirit Group: Josh Moss, P. Harris
Newsletter Editor: Jane Ricchio
newsletter submissions
Please send submissions for the newsletter to Jane Ricchio via email (NOTE NEW EMAIL ADDRESS) at [email protected] Please include the word “newsletter” in the subject line.
Open circle is on facebook! ’like’ us at:
https://www.facebook.com/pages/Open-Circle-Unitarian-Universalist-Fellowship/115997188421362?fref=ts
Check out our website at: http://www.ocuuf.org– check out our YouTube link!
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