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December 1, 2014 • office@jeffersonunitarian.org • www.jeffersonunitarian.org • Volume 2014, Issue 21

The JUC CrierThe Newsletter of the Jefferson Unitarian Church14350 W. 32nd Avenue • Golden, Colorado 80401 • 303-279-5282

Sunday, December 7 • 9:15 & 11 a.m. • Infant/toddler care provided.

Reverberating Wonderpresented by Rev. Wendy Williams, Senior Minister

Albert Einstein claimed that one could approach life as if nothing were or a miracle or as if everything were a miracle. In this month of celebrating and exploring wonder, we begin by looking at Hanukkah and other stories which open the way for miracle and wonder. Music: Worship Band; Adam Revell, piano.

Saturday, December 13 • 4:30 p.m. AND Sunday, December 14 • 9:15 & 11 a.m. • Infant/toddler care provided.

Music Service: Calling All Dawnspresented by Rev. Keith Arnold, Minister of Music; Rev. Wendy Williams, Senior Minister; and JUC’s Choirs

As a religious community, we journey in this service from exuberance to wonder to grateful blessing, from movement to silence to music. Drawing on musical elements from around the world and texts including the Tao te Ching, Japanese haiku, sacred Christian works, the Bhagavad Gita, and the Hebrew Book of Nehemiah, this service invites us to come together once again to form our spiritual identity as a hopeful Unitarian Universalist people, trusting in the knowledge that after each dark night of the soul, the dawn returns. In order to accommodate all who might wish to be in the sanctuary for this special service, this service will be offered on Saturday, Dec. 13, at 4:30 p.m., in addition to the regular Sunday morning services.

☛ Looking ahead to… Sunday, Dec. 21: In the Deep of Night presented by Rev. Eric Banner, Assistant Minister. In a world filled with light it can be hard to see the power of the darkness. But it is often in the deep of night, the dark times, that questions like I wonder what would happen if...? begin to take form. What wonderings are nestled in the ground of your being, and what will it take to sustain you until they begin to show themselves for all to see? Music: JUC Ringers; Rev. Keith Arnold, piano.

Evergreen Campus Sunday, Dec. 7 • 4 p.m.2981 Bergen Peak Dr.

(at Congregation Beth Evergreen)

Reverberating Wonderpresented by Rev. Wendy Williams, Senior Minister

See sermon description above. Worship Associate: Patti Stone.

Worship services held on first and third Sundays at 4 p.m. 2981 Bergen Peak Dr.

(Congregation Beth Evergreen)

If you wish to be informed about news regarding our Evergreen campus, please contact Sue Parilla, Director of Congregational Engagement (sueparilla@jeffersonunitarian.org).

Holiday Healing ServicesMonday, December 8 • 7 p.m.

Evergreen Campus: 2981 Bergen Peak Dr. (at Beth Evergreen)

Tuesday, Dec. 9 • 7 p.m.Golden Campus

The holidays are here with all their sparkle and celebration, but these days can also intensify feelings of loss and grief.

This service honors the experience of loss of all kinds and gives us a time to gather in the soft glow

of candlelight and the warmth of community. In honoring our sorrows we can experience the

blessings of life more fully. If you have a friend who is experiencing a difficult time this

season, consider accompanying them to this service. Presented by Rev. Wendy Williams, Senior Minister, and Rev. Keith Arnold, Minister of

Music. All are welcome.

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~ Rev. Keith Arnold, Minister of Music (303-279-5282 ext. 17; keitharnold@jeffersonunitarian.org)

TAKE NOTE

In Faith,

Eric

Rev. Eric Banner, Assistant Minister (303-279-5282 ext. 28; ericbanner@jeffersonunitarian.org)

On Fire

Some of you may know that there are a variety of changes going on around Jefferson Unitarian Church that represent a real shift of focus and attention in our church. One of them is centered in work that our Lifespan Education and Adult Programs (LEAP) group is doing. Before I joined the team here, LEAP had begun to shift their attention from managing classes to a focus on faith formation, and that work is now continuing. But what, you might ask, is faith formation? And why have the LEAP leaders chosen to move in this direction?

The short answer is this: LEAP realized that what was needed in our congregation was a way for people to deepen, connect and engage in a specifically Unitarian Universalist context. To know and grow in their religious identity and home. And the time and attention that was required to manage programs that could just as easily be held at the local library, or the Colorado Free University, or Create Meaning, meant that we weren’t giving as much attention to the things that our church can do uniquely well.

Going forward, we’re working to develop a core curriculum that will be available to all of our members and friends to help you grow and live more faithfully. But what is faith formation?

And how will you know if it’s happened? Consider the following questions from another Unitarian Universalist congregation:

On a scale of 1-10, how would you rate yourself compared to the following statements?

• I have a clear purpose in my life and am able to articulate that purpose to both myself and others.

• Even though I cannot know exactly what will happen, the promises I make give shape to my future and meaning to my life.

• I experience awe.• I can be in the presence of my own or another’s pain without

needing to flee or fix it. • I see the connection between beauty and justice.• I actively practice my spiritual or religious faith. Faith formation and spiritual growth are about being able to

be increasingly confident of these kinds of characteristics. Not dogmatic, mind you, just confident that you have a way of living and being that pushes you through transformation and growth to be better today than you were before. More connected, more engaged, and with a deeper well to draw upon. We all start on the journey somewhere, but our commitment to you is that we will be a church where you can grow, no matter your age or stage. Not just in knowledge, not just by knowing more, but also by being more. And in the months and years ahead we hope you’ll tell us more about where you need to grow: what changes and challenges you are struggling with. And that this church is a place where everybody can say “I’m better because I’m here,” however long you’ve been calling this your church home.

Those who gather for worship services at Jefferson Unitarian Church do so for many reasons: for some it is the opportunity to come together in religious community and to connect

with other spiritual seekers. For others, it is to deepen one’s own capacity for self-reflection and to imagine ways towards realizing one’s highest potential. For many, there exists a power in the possibilities of what people might do together to engage with the world.

On Saturday, December 13, and Sunday, December 14, worship services will include many participants, including our adult and children’s choirs, our pianist, Adam Revell, numerous guest instrumentalists, Rev. Wendy Williams and me. The service will include musical elements whose texts and styles are based on sacred works from around the world, including the Tao te Ching, Japanese haiku, sacred Christian texts, the Bhagavad Gita, and the Hebrew Book of Nehemiah, among others. As Unitarian Universalists, our living tradition draws upon many sources, including wisdom from the world’s religions which inspires us in our ethical and spiritual life.

One can find this music online, purchase a CD, and even go to a concert to hear this music performed. What, then, is the point of experiencing these sounds—music, text, and ideas—in our beloved JUC sanctuary in worship?

For me, the importance of what happens when religious community gathers has to do with the paradox of the individual and the group. There is a simultaneous invitation for a participant to open one’s heart to oneself and to grow in understanding of the sacredness of life, and at the same time to connect to others as companions on the journey and to build an identity of a people who share common history and destiny.

And so, when we are together on December 13 and 14, there are no stars of the show, to use performance language: not our choirs, our soloists, the professional instrumentalists, or even the music. Instead, the central celebrant is the congregation itself—everyone present.

As individuals and together as one, we will be invited, using the tools of music, language, ritual, and community, to travel from exuberance to wonder to grateful blessing, to voyage from movement to silence to music, to once again come together to form our spiritual identity as a hopeful Unitarian Universalist people trusting in the knowledge that after each dark night of the soul, the dawn returns.

In order to accommodate all who might wish to be in the sanctuary for this special service, we kindly request that members and friends attend no more than one service. The same service will be offered on Saturday, December 13, at 4:30 p.m., in addition to the regular Sunday morning services.

HOLIDAY NEWSSee the insert in this newsletter (p. 9-10 in the electronic version) for everything you need to know about Christmas Eve

services, Winter Solstice and fun holiday events! So many wonderful ways to connect with our community—don’t miss it!

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Family SpotlightAshley Johnson, Director of Religious Education (ashleyjohnson@jeffersonunitarian.org; 303-279-5282, x18)

Religious Education: A Faith Formation BasecampReligious Education (RE) Ministry at Jefferson Unitarian

Church is a faith formation basecamp. A place to start, a place to grow, and a promise to families that we will help their children find both roots and wings in our Unitarian Universalist faith.

Consistent participation in RE during the formative years fosters a strong UU identity. Each classroom and program is a stepping stone that moves each child down the road toward understanding and appreciating our UU Principles, Sources and story.

Along this path, children and youth have a chance to discover their fit into our congregation and the larger UU world. Ensuring that our youngest UUs feel connected to church and faith can be challenging. It requires each of us to participate as we create an environment where exploration, development and celebration of spirituality is welcome, where times and places for worshiping, reflecting and centering are available. It requires that we all believe in awe and wonder. Mostly, it requires adults as guides, who allow space for children’s spiritual and religious awareness to unfold.

Understanding RE at JUCAs children move out of the Early Childhood Education (ECE)

program, they carry experiences with them. We add to these in the Elementary program. The goals of the Elementary program are for the children to:

1st-3rd Grades: Explore religion, our seven principles and build needed trust to share joys and sorrows while holding joys and sorrows for others.

4th-5th Grades: Explore personal values and beliefs in a UU context at a time when children may move away from church.

Volunteer As a Guide?Help us create this space. Contact Ashley Johnson, Director

of Religious Education (ashleyjohnson@jeffersonunitarian.org; 303-279-5282 x18) for more information.

There is an immediate need for helpers: we are in need of permanent Nursery, Toddler and PreK-K assistants (11 a.m.), two 1st-3rd grade teachers (9:15 a.m.) and three 4th-5th grade teachers (one for 9:15; two for 11 a.m.). We’re also looking for Our Whole Lives facilitators for K-1st and 4th-5th grades.

Parent Helpers Elementary classrooms need parent helpers. Find out what

your kids are experiencing and learn more about being a UU. Contact Sara Covington (thenannysara@gmail.com) for more information.

Meet Our 4th - 5th Grade Teachers and the Leaders of Our Elementary Program

Kristine MathiasenKristine represents the elementary portfolio on the RE steering

committee and teaches 4th-5th grade during 9:15 a.m. services. Kristine has been an RE teacher for three years. She enjoys being in the classroom because it gives her an opportunity to deepen her own understanding of our UU faith. She has learned to be herself and to allow her students the same freedom.

Sara Covington, 1st - 5th Grade Program CoordinatorSara is on staff as the 1st - 5th grade Program Coordinator.

In this role she prepares all of the 1st - 5th grade lessons and supplies, handles administrative needs such as registration, and is the primary support for elementary teachers. Sara brings a unique perspective in that she is a lifelong Unitarian Universalist, having grown up at JUC! Sara is also substitute teaching in two classrooms until volunteers can be found.

4th - 5th Grade, 9:15 a.m.: Deborah AndrewsDeborah co-teaches with Kristine Mathiasen. In 2012/2013

she worked with the Neighboring Faiths program. RE has provided her with a great opportunity to work with our thoughtful kids, to expand her network of JUC adults and explore connections to UU principles.

4th - 5th Grade, 11 a.m.: Philippe & Ann-Marie MarquisWhile not new to RE, Ann-Marie and Philippe are new to

4th-5th grades. This year, their classroom goals include helping young UUs grow spiritually and in self-knowledge. Eight years ago, Ann-Marie founded the Support of UU Parents of Preschoolers program (SOUPS). She has a master’s in social work and has run youth programs in the past, as well as being a nanny since her kids were born. Philippe coordinated the Living with a Man’s Heart conferences at JUC in 2009 and 2011.

From the Classrooms Kristine Mathiasen (4th-5th grade) - One of the best things

about our classes is lighting the chalice and sharing joys and sorrows. This special time allows us to connect with each other’s day-to-day lives. Often, if something serious is going on, they will share it and it can help the kids respond with empathy and kindness. If something good is going on, we can share in their happiness too. This is meaningful to grow relationships.

Philippe Marquis (4th-5th grade) - We had a profound breakthrough with a fourth grader. Kids that have been vocal about not wanting to come to church were asked to interview an adult regarding church and JUC. Afterward, kids’ attitudes were transformed. Suddenly the children were all sharing the importance of JUC and why they like coming to church. We’ve heard some parents report that their children’s resistance has dissipated.

Gillie Bishop and Sandra Fisher (Neighboring Faiths) - The middle school Neighboring Faiths program has spent this fall studying Eastern religions. We’ve taken field trips to the ISKCON Hindu Temple, the Taoist Tai Chi Society of Denver, and the Buddhist Kadampa Meditation Center. Don’t be surprised if JUC’s middle schoolers seem more peacefully detached than your average tweens!

Children’s Worship: First Sundays in the Chapel Sunday, December 7: Wonder

✪ SOUPS ✪ (Support of UU Parents)

2nd & 4th Mondays • 9 to 11:30 a.m. (chapel)Dec. 15: Yoga & Meditation. Unwind and relax in a warm and

nurturing atmosphere while reaping the benefits of a very gentle yoga session and meditation instruction. Bring a mat or towel. Child care begins at 8:45 a.m. for babies to kindergartners, or older kids willing to be mentors. Contact: Lori Gray (jucsoups@gmail.com; 303-945-5873).

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Lunch after Church: Sunday, December 7Ali Baba Grill (109 N. Rubey Dr., Golden)

Join us for good food and conversation! Sign up on the white board at the Getting Connected table on the day of the gathering, or just meet us there. Contact: LeeAnne Dale (303-932-7366).

Board BlogSusie Streng, Trustee 303-912-0839; susiestreng@comcast.net

JUC Board of TrusteesNext meeting: Thursday, Dec. 11, 7 p.m.

jeffersonunitarian.org/Board-of-Trustees

I loved it: JUC’s first Board Buzz with a Bite! More than 40 of us met on November 16 to enjoy Gilla’s delicious soup and take part in

conversation about the future of JUC. Some of the topics we talked about were:

- What issues do you have about the way JUC’s governance is currently structured?

- What do you know about JUC’s move to Policy Governance and how do you feel about it?

- What’s the one thing you like so much at JUC that it’s crucial to your being here?

- How many people would you like to see at JUC and where would you like to put them?

- What issues would you like to discuss with the Board?- What could the Board do to communicate better?- What do the words Deepen, Connect, Engage mean to you?

Do they inspire you?

There will be opportunities to participate in future Board Buzz with a Bite sessions. Watch for them on the Sign Up Site. One of the greatest privileges and responsibilities of serving on the Board is staying in close touch with the Congregation by listening. Please help us by letting your voice be heard.

1 Visitors' Circle • 2nd & 4th Sundays 5 minutes after each service (Meet @ the Welcome Table)

For newcomers: an informal discussion to answer your questions about Unitarian Universalism and JUC.

Next session: December 14.

1 Path to MembershipSaturday, December 13 • 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. (chapel)

Designed to familiarize those considering joining JUC with some of our staff, our diverse programs and activities, UU history and the responsibilities and benefits of membership. Sessions include child care and a light lunch. You may RSVP at the Sign Up Site or call the JUC office (303-279-5282). Please call Annie Hedberg, Membership Coordinator (303-279-7451), for more information on the joining process.

Lighting the PathBeckett Coppola, Intern Minister (303-279-5282 ext. 31; beckettcoppola@jeffersonunitarian.org)

On WonderStepping into a state of wonderment is the process of

intentionally stepping into beginner’s mind. It is going back to Paris with a loved one who has never been; it’s watching the sunset at the beach where you built the sand castles of your youth after many years away; it’s seeing something through the wide eyes of a child’s learning mind; I’m sure you have a few of your own that you could add to this list.

Wonder at the birth of a precious child, knowing in our hearts that all children are truly precious, is part of the celebration of this month. Our Unitarian Universalist history is rooted in the Christian tradition, and today that tradition is one of many wisdom traditions from which we draw in our search for truth and meaning in life.

There is also a wonderment in the lengthening winter nights as we approach winter solstice. For me, this is a precious time of turning inward and enjoying a little more quiet in the womb-like darkness of the season. As you may know from the last issue of the Crier, this year the deepening darkness for me includes my journey with early-stage ovarian cancer, and I am finding that our Unitarian Universalist theology (yes, we do have one of those!) is providing great comfort.

Our fourth principle requires of us that we offer ourselves and others the freedom to engage in a responsible search for truth and meaning. The trouble with this is when we think we’ve figured something out, which is naturally followed by our minds and hearts allowing accretions to build up around an idea. Once the accretions have become thick enough, like the layers upon layers of shell that create the pearl around a grain of sand, we can no longer see the original assumption or engage in responsible inquiry as to its veracity. There is a remedy for this held in the practice of beginner’s mind.

Experiments in wonder are the inquiries of an apprentice. Whether it’s the great awe at one’s own mortality, or the wonder at the way singing holiday carols warms the heart, enter this season of miracles with your mind open and inquisitive. Allow the perpetual curiosity that is inherent to beginner’s mind to take hold, and see what happens.

May we all experience the power of wonder during this holiday season, and may we all continue to be a precious blessing to one another and this community!

Blessings,

Beckett

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Visit jeffersonunitarian.org/src for general information on SRC Task Forces and their goals.

JUST NEIGHBORING http://jeffersonunitarian.org/All-Church-Project

. . . Housing & Poverty Task Force (H&P TF) . . .

. . . Green Task Force . . .

Just Neighboring: Volunteers NeededGingerbread House Making Event: Friday, Dec. 12

Setup at 2 p.m. • Event Starts at 4:30 p.m. Edgewater Fire Station (25th Ave. & Gray St.)

JUC’s all-church Social Action project is gearing up for the next exciting event in the community of Edgewater, and we need your help.

Colorado Senior Connections, the organization we partnered with for Edgewater Clean-up Day, is holding a Grandparents Must Be Supervised gingerbread house making event on Friday, December 12. This fun event draws children, parents and grandparents from within the Edgewater community.

Volunteers are needed for set-up, assisting with registration, handing out supplies, and clean-up.

There will also be a Holiday Lighting event starting at 6 p.m. JUCers will provide music for a portion of the evening.

You can volunteer by contacting Jill Armstrong, SRC Chair (jarm444@gmail.com), or Felicia with Colorado Senior Connections (720-763-3042). Please tell Felicia you are with Jefferson Unitarian Church if you volunteer directly through her.

Citizens Climate Lobby: Sat., Dec. 6 • 11 a.m. (M1)The Golden chapter of Citizens Climate Lobby will meet to listen to the national call and discuss the upcoming regional conference. Contact: Phil Nelson (philhnelson@aol.com).

Family Promise Host Week: December 21 – 28

Christmas is just around the corner – what a wonderful time to share our good wishes and compassion with our less fortunate neighbors. Our next Family Promise Host week will

be December 21 – 28. This is a marvelous opportunity for us to help our neighbors that find themselves without housing during these festive times. We need approximately 80 volunteers to make our host week a success. Most of the tasks require only 2 to 3 hours, and yet mean so very much to our guests. Please stop by the Family Promise table in the commons to see how you might help out. Contact: Pat Nickel (303-670-0145; georgenickel@comcast.net).

JUC QUUILTERS The Quuilters group delivered the following items to Denver

Health last week: 10 little quilts, 8 blankets, and 35 hats for the Babies-in-Need program. If you’re interested in joining this group in their efforts, contact Jean Decker (jeandteach@Q.com).

Scrip Card ProgramEarn free money for JUC while you do your holiday shopping!

Gift cards are a popular solution to the problem of finding the right gifts for the holidays. If you want to purchase and wrap gifts yourself, you can use scrip (gift cards) to make your purchases. If you aren’t quite sure what size or color or... you know the dilemma, then give scrip cards directly. They especially serve well to mail to family far away, as stocking stuffers for the kids or grandkids, or for that hard to please loved one. You can purchase your special Christmas dinner supplies at Whole Foods or Sprouts using scrip, too.

If you purchase scrip through JUC’s Scrip Program, between 2% and 20% of the face value is rebated back to JUC by the retailers – free money! We earned over $4,000 last year, and the Board of Trustees is presently deciding what we can best do with that money, along with this year’s earnings, to expand our capacity to serve our mission. Visit shopwithscrip.com or look for the Scrip Cards table in the commons after services to peruse the list of hundreds of retailers there. Ask about the new My Scrip Wallet app that lets you purchase and shop with e-scrip on your smartphone. We will be placing orders on Mondays, Dec. 8 and Dec. 15, so get your order in by the Sunday prior to those dates.

Contacts: Lauren Wilder (303 523-0481; lolo.wilder@yahoo.com), Pat Emery (303-748-1215; stardustpat@gmail.com).

Church CalendarMake sure you request space for your meetings and events at

jeffersonunitarian.org/Calendar-Request or by emailing Carol Wilsey (carolwilsey@jeffersonunitarian.org). Also, please notify Carol if an event or meeting is canceled so we can open the space to others.

Your Grocery (and Gas) Purchases Can Help JUC!

King Soopers, Safeway, and Vitamin Cottage cards are available in the office. When you purchase these cards from JUC, 5% of the face value goes to our operating budget! King Soopers and Safeway cards are now reloadable—fill them back up at the store and JUC still reaps the benefit.

Contact: Kristen Miller, Bookkeeper (kristenmiller@jeffersonunitarian.org).

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Pastoral CareHow JUCers Care for Each Other

We Hold in Our Hearts…❦ Betty Lynn Ferguson, as her mother, Emmy Ferguson, has returned home with hospice care after a three-week hospital stay following a fall;

❦ Merry Luckenbill, as she grieves the death of her uncle, Leonard Richall, on Nov. 14.

We Celebrate with…❦ Theresa Tomich, who is the proud grandmother of Lavender Arden Coleroth, born to Andrew Metzroth and Amy Cole;

❦ Ellen Evancheck, as she has finished her master’s degree at the University College at DU in Organizational Development, Learning and Training;

❦ Jerica & Dave Cadwallader, on the birth of their daughter, Zenna Jolie, on Nov. 28.

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Community EvEnt

Mindful Journey to Italy: July 26 to Aug. 4, 2015 With the Neighbourhood UU Congregation, Toronto

Take a Mindful Journey with UUs to the hill towns of Italy. Experience the enchanting hill towns of Tuscany and Umbria, view the awesome landscapes, admire the incredible art, taste the wine, enjoy fresh pasta, and all the delights this area of Italy offers us. Spend three nights in Florence, and three each in the hill towns of Siena and Assisi, staying in charming accommodations. We’ll explore Cortona, made famous by the movie Under the Tuscan Sun, see the Renaissance architecture designed by a humanist Pope in Pienza, meditate to Gregorian chant at the Abby St. Antimo that dates from the 12th century. The hill towns of San Gimignano, Montalcino, Montefalco, Bevagna, and Spoleto are also on our itinerary. We’ll learn each town’s stories from its art, food, and inhabitants.

Because we are booking small monastery guest house accommodation, we need to make deposits by February 1, 2015. Please see the Itinerary and costs at http://nuuc.ca/spiritual-growth/spiritual-practice/mindful-journeys/ or email beverlz@me.com for more information.

2nd TuesdaysLight Dinner • 6 p.m. (commons)

Worship • 6:30 p.m. (chapel)

If your small group meets on Tuesday night, you’ll be able to attend dinner, the worship service and your group meeting. Worship will be led by one of our ministers; soup and bread will be available for a modest donation. Sign up at the Sign Up Site or online (tinyurl.com/ToGatherTuesday) to donate a crock pot of soup/stew or bread. Cooks can be reimbursed up to $25 for ingredients if requested. Next ToGather Tuesday: Dec. 9.

Community EvEnt

League of Women Voters: Truth, Lies, Money Buys!

Sources estimate campaign spending on ads for Senate, House and gubernatorial seats reached $1 billion in 2014. Many of these ads include false or misleading statements. Across the country, the League of Women Voters has begun a three-year, in-depth study of what might be done to improve campaign financing. The first part of this study will look at the possibility of a Constitutional Convention to reform the process.

Six meetings are scheduled at different times and locations around Jefferson County to begin this study:

• Golden area: Tues., Dec 9, 9:15 a.m. at the Highland Rescue Team Ambulance Service (317 S. Lookout Mountain, Golden). Contact Janet (303-674-7755) for information about this meeting.

• South Jeffco area: Tues., Dec 9, 9:15 a.m. at St. Philip’s Lutheran Church (7531 S. Kendall Blvd., Littleton). Christina (303-810-6824) has information about this meeting.

• Arvada area: Tues., Dec 9, 1 p.m. Call Marcia (303-422-6588) for location and other information for this meeting.

• Applewood/Wheat Ridge area: Wed., Dec. 10, 9:15 a.m. at Westland Meridian (10695 W. 17th Ave., Lakewood). Call Nancy (303-882-8337) for information.

• Jeffco p.m.: Wed., Dec. 10, 6 p.m. at 1425 Brentwood, Suite 7, Lakewood. Talk to Lucinda (720-254-5741) for information on this meeting.

• Lakewood: Thurs., Dec 11, 9:15 a.m. at the Cason-Howell House (1575 Kipling St., Lakewood). Call Susan (303-988-5847) about this meeting.

All meetings are free and open to the public.

Community EvEnt

Dancing with Life: Living Deeply with Real JoyPresented by the Boulder Valley UU Fellowship

Sat., Dec. 6 • 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.1241 Ceres Dr., Lafayette • Cost: $50

At this daylong retreat, we will create a supportive learning community in which we’ll explore wise and playful ways to deepen our intimacy with ourselves, each other, and the world. We’ll use guided meditations, play, presentations, movement, and experiential exercises to renew our appreciation for the richness and mystery of our lives. Lunch and snacks provided.

David Chernikoff has been teaching Insight Meditation since 1988, taught meditation and psychology at Naropa University for several years, and currently works as a spiritual counselor and psychotherapist in Boulder. He teaches workshops and retreats throughout the US.

Rev. Lydia Ferrante-Roseberry has been the minister at Boulder Valley UU Fellowship since 2007. She balances her call for social justice with an equally powerful desire to help people see the joy that also permeates life. Lydia has been a practitioner and leader of Interplay since 1995, and uses its improvisational tools to bring play, embodiment and deeper wisdom into her own life and the people she serves.

For more information and/or to register, please contact Larry LaVerdure (larry.laverdure@gmail.com).

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Ongoing Affinity GroupsGroups on this page meet on a regular basis and welcome new members. Meeting locations are posted in the common

areas of both church buildings.

✻ Ongoing Group: Issues in Aging • 4th Mondays • 7 p.m.Valerie Stone (vestone@gmail.com) We meet once a month to discuss a wide variety of issues related to aging. So far, we have covered getting an accurate diagnosis when dementia is suspected, resources for families dealing with dementia, caregiver issues, wisdom and exercise. Mon., Feb. 24: Dr. Michelle Winston presents The 6 Pillars of Brain Fitness and Brain Health, covering memory and attention exercises for healthy aging. Then she will lead us in some neurobics exercises!

Blue Mountain Meditation Group: 1st & 3rd Thursdays, 7:30 p.m. • Annie & John Hedberg (303-279-7451) For those practicing Eknath Easwaran’s Eight-Point Program for living a spiritual life in the everyday world. If you wish to join without the introductory course, read Passage Meditation by Easwaran and meditate 30 minutes daily for a month.

Buddhist Sangha: 1st & 3rd Sundays, 5 p.m. • Doug Anderson (dca-crm@hotmail.com; 720-474-6723) The Buddha was a highly unorthodox person. His teachings are not sets of dogma but rather propositions for people to investigate and validate for themselves. No experience necessary. Child care upon request.

Charla! 1st & 3rd Sundays, 5 p.m. • Carol Drew (303-422-5977)Discuss important topics in Spanish. Intermediate level recommended.

Covenant of UU Pagans (CUUPS) • Mari Cowley (303-420-4139)

Dream Study: 2nd and 4th Mondays, 9:15 a.m. • Marie Schottler (303-278-8035; mschottler@comcast.net) Based on the writings of Jeremy Taylor, in this gentle group process questions are asked of the dreamer leading to an aha! about his or her own dream. Please call before attending. No meeting Dec. 22.

Great Books Discussion Group: 2nd & 4th Mondays, 7:30 p.m. Dona Chilcoat (303-989-6945) Based on the idea that by reading from the great books of our civilization and discussing them with others, sharing insights and questions, you can reach a fuller understanding of these works than you could on your own. Note: Dec. 8 mtg. will be held at Dona Chilcoat’s home.Dec. 8: The Illiad, Book 23-24 (Homer, trans. Fagles)Jan. 12: Ransom (Malouf) Jan. 26: Aias/Ajax (Sophocles)

Issues in Aging: 4th Mondays, 7 p.m. • Valerie Stone (vestone@gmail.com; 303-669-8528), Jim Mayer (303-431-1740; jimmayer.colo@gmail.com) Information and education on issues related to healthy aging and dementia, to include lectures, panels, and discussion. Next mtg: Jan. 26.

JUC Knitters: 3rd Fridays, 7 p.m. in members' homes • Jean Decker (303-274-9872; jeandteach@Q.com) All knitters and crocheters are invited to join in making hats and blankets for Denver Health.

Memoirs: 3rd Sundays, 7 p.m. • Len Wheeler (303-467-3342; lenkt@earthlink.net) We’re gentle, we laugh, and we’re serious about commenting on ways to improve our non-fiction writing. No prior experience is needed.

Non-Violent Communication: 2nd & 4th Thursdays, 7 p.m. Dindy Fuller (720-402-4099)Anyone who has previously taken NVC training is eligible to participate. A great way to practice and improve your skills.

Origins: 1st Wednesdays, 1 p.m. • Lisa Rountree (lisa.rtree@gmail.com; 720-273-7511) Discuss literature exploring the origins of our religious traditions.

Poetry Group: 1st & 3rd Thursdays, 7 p.m. • Julie Excell (julieexcell@gmail.com; 541-778-4724) Explore poetry as an art form and a spiritual practice through appreciation of the work of master poets, and through writing and sharing your own poetry.

Quuilters' Group: 1st Saturdays, 9 a.m. to noon • Jean Decker (303-274-9872; jeandteach@Q.com) Call for meeting details.

Retirees' Brown Bag Lunch: 1st Fridays, 11:30 a.m. • Betty Halladay (303-274-9144) Next meeting: Dec. 5.

Roving Readers: 4th Sundays, 12:30 p.m. • Mike Foster (303-456-2647) Open to anyone who reads the monthly selection. Books selected by group participants. Nov. 23: Spoon River Anthology (Masters)

Science and Spirit: 4th Sundays, 12:30 p.m. • Joe Kraus (swish@nuthingbut.net) Discuss recent discoveries and wonder together. More info at http://jucscienceandspirit.wordpress.com

Slow Soup Group: 4th Sundays, 12:30 p.m. • Gilla Lachnitt (303-216-9674; lachnittg@gmail.com), Carol Kolesnikoff (303-588-9198; eatingethically@gmail.com) We’ll prepare soups together to take home and to donate. Ingredients provided; cost is $10/person.

Spiritual Healing Circle: 2nd Saturdays, 10 a.m. (6620 Quitman Ct., Arvada) Joyce Thiessen-Barrett (joycebarrett@comcast.net), Emily Townsend (emily.townsend@gmail.com) Weaving together practices from shamanism, energy healing, and music healing to create sacred space, offer prayers, and send/receive healing energy. RSVP requested. Next mtg. Dec. 6.

Story Circle: 3rd Tuesdays, 6:30 p.m. • Lev Ropes (303-278-0177; levropes@comcast.net) A gathering to foster the traditional art of storytelling for adults. Tell a polished story for fun, or a story that you’d like to polish up in front of a forgiving and friendly audience. Receive help from other tellers, or come to listen. All are welcome.

Thin Air: Tuesdays, 1 p.m. • Margaret Bakker (303-986-0769)An informal group of folks who wish to keep up their musical skills as well as have fun. Repertoire consists of traditional, folk, instrumental and vocal music. Please call for more details.

Understanding the Heart of Buddhism: 2nd & 4th Thursdays, 7 p.m. • Doug Anderson (dca-crm@hotmail.com; 720-474-6723) Meditation and discussion presented online by Rodney Smith, author of Lessons from the Dying, Stepping Out of Self-Deception and Awakening; founder of the Seattle Insight Meditation Society.

UU Liberal Christians: 1st & 3rd Tuesdays, 7 p.m. • Sara Lohaus (pslohaus@comcast.net; 303-432-3149) Connect with Christianity from a fresh, open-minded perspective. Dec. 2: Advent: Lighting the Darkness. Candlelight, readings and music in observance of this time of expectant waiting and preparation before Christmas. All are welcome!

UU Piecemakers: 3rd Fridays, 9:30 a.m. in members' homesEdna Mae Miller (303-989-4793) Work on personal projects as well as quilts donated to charities selected by the group.

WomenSpirit: 2nd Fridays, 7 p.m. • Kalin Baker (Kalin@KalinArtAndSpirit.com; 720-253-6561) A lively community of women 18+ who playfully reflect and share interactive programs based on participants’ interests.

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Calendar Highlights(full calendar available online at jeffersonunitarian.org/calendar)

Tuesday, Dec. 2 1:00pm MMG: Thin Air (Priestley rm.) 6:30pm MMG: Children’s Choir (Priestley rm.) 7:00pm LEAP: Non-Violent Communication (R6/7) 7:00pm LEAP: UU Liberal Christians Advent Service (chapel) 7:00pm SRC Meeting (M1/2) 7:00pm SRC: Housing & Poverty TF mtg. (M3/4) 7:15pm MMG: Radiance Choir (Priestley rm.)Wed., Dec. 3 1:00pm LEAP: Origins Book Group (M3/4) 6:15pm JUC Ringers (Priestley rm.) 7:30pm JUC Choir (sanc.)Thursday, Dec. 4 9:30am PCG: Issues in Aging (M1/2) 7:00pm LEAP: JUC Poetry Group (M3/4) 7:30pm LEAP: Blue Mountain Meditation Group (chapel)Friday, Dec. 5 9:00am Craft Faire (sanc., chapel, comm., kit.) 11:30am LEAP: Retirees’ Brown Bag Lunch (M3/4)Sat., Dec. 6 9:00am Craft Faire (sanc., comm., kit., chapel) 9:00am Quuilters Group (R3/4) 10:30am Green TF: Citizens Climate Lobby (M3/4) 1:00pm MMG: Handbell rehearsal (Priestley rm.)

Sunday, Dec. 7 9:15/11am Reverberating Wonder w/Wendy Williams 12:15pm 50-Year Member celebration (R3/4) 12:15pm Young Adult Ministry mtg. (R6/7) 12:15pm MMG: Family Band rehearsal (Priestley rm.) 12:30pm LOV!: Cooking event (kit., comm.) 4:00pm Evergreen Campus: Reverberating Wonder w/Wendy Williams 5:00pm LEAP: ¡Charla! (M3/4) 5:00pm LEAP: Buddhist Sangha Service (chapel) 6:30pm SRC: I Heart Christmas Concert (sanc., comm., kit)Monday, Dec. 8 9:15am LEAP: Dream Study (M1/2) 3:00pm Newsletter Deadline 6:00pm MMG: Golden Bells rehearsal (Priestley rm.) 6:30pm Small Group - Beal (M1/2) 7:00pm Worship Ministry Team (R6/7) 7:00pm Evergreen Campus: Holiday Healing Service 7:00pm MMG: Bell Ensemble rehearsal (Priestley rm.) 7:30pm LEAP: Great Books Discussion Group (M3/4)Tuesday, Dec. 9 10:00am Green TF: Citizen’s Climate Lobby mtg. (M1/2) 1:00pm MMG: Thin Air (Priestley rm.) 2:00pm Small Group - Rountree (M1/2) 6:00pm B&C: ToGather Meal (south commons, kit) 6:30pm MMG: Children’s Choir (Priestley rm.) 7:00pm Holiday Healing Service (chapel) 7:00pm EETF: Foodies Book Group (M3/4) 7:00pm LEAP: Men’s Group w/Bishop (Mitchell rm.) 7:00pm MMG: Orchestra rehearsal (sanc.) 7:00pm SRC: UUSC TF mtg. (M1/2) 7:00pm Small Groups (R6/7; R3/4; M5) 7:15pm MMG: Radiance Choir (Priestley rm.) 7:30pm Small Group - Granquist (chapel)Wed., Dec. 10 5:15pm Perpetual Peace mtg. (M3/4) 6:15pm JUC Ringers (Priestley rm.) 7:00pm Small Group - Swahnberg (M1/2) 7:30pm JUC Choir (sanc.)Thurs., Dec. 11 9:00am Pastoral Care Group mtg. (M1/2) 6:30pm Board of Trustees mtg. (M3/4) 7:00pm LEAP: Undertanding the Heart of Buddhism (chapel)Friday, Dec. 12 7:00pm LEAP: Bridge Group (MGR, M3/4) 7:00pm LEAP: WomenSpirit (chapel)Sat., Dec. 13 9:00am Path to Membership (chapel, comm., kit.) 1:00pm MMG: Handbell rehearsal (Priestley rm.) 4:30pm Holiday Music Service

• Rev. Wendy Williams, Senior MinisterMon., Tues., Thurs., Fri. • 10 a.m. - 3 p.m.

• Rev. Keith Arnold, Minister of MusicTuesday–Friday • 11 a.m. - 4 p.m.

• Rev. Eric Banner, Assistant MinisterTuesday–Friday • 9:30 a.m. - 4 p.m.

• Ashley Johnson, Director of Religious Education

Mon., Tues., Wed., Fri. • 10 a.m. - 2 p.m.

Staff will generally be available according to the schedule above, but it is always wise to call ahead!

Office Hours Monday – Friday • 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Tuesday – Thursday • 6:30 to 9:30 p.m.Sunday • 8:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.

The JUC CrierThis newsletter of the Jefferson

Unitarian Church is delivered electronically to all members and pledging friends. First class mail delivery is available upon request to the church office (303-279-5282; office@jeffersonunitarian.org).

Upon request, visitors may be added to the email list or receive four (4) complimentary issues, after which they may continue receiving the newsletter by notifying the church office. E-mail ronabradley@jeffersonunitarian.org to submit an article.

Editor: Rona BradleyNext deadline: 3 p.m., Mon., Dec. 8Next publication date: Mon., Dec. 15

Sunday Morning AnnouncementsIf you would like your JUC event to be

announced via our order of service and/or weekly email notice, please submit 75 words or less to Rona Bradley (ronabradley@jeffersonunitarian.org) by Wednesday at 9 a.m. on the week you’d like your announcement to appear.

Weekly Attendance

Nov. 23 9:15 210 RE: 37 (11 adults) 11 210 RE: 32 (8 adults)

Nov. 30 9:15 156 RE: 32 (12 adults) 11 171 RE: 50 (18 adults)

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Holiday Poinsettia FundFor years, it has been a tradition for

many of us to memorialize a loved one or to celebrate a milestone by donating to the holiday poinsettia fund. These special flowers are used to decorate the sanctuary and chapel throughout our widely attended holiday services. If there is a person or event you wish to remember this year, please consider a donation. Donations will be listed in our holiday orders of service. You may make a donation at the office: drop by or mail it along with the information you would like included. Thank you in advance for making JUC a beautiful place during the holidays.

I Heart Xmas Concert and Sing-Along!Sunday, December 7 • 6:30 p.m.

Can we hear a fa-la-la-la-la??? Start warming up your voice for the 6th annual I Heart Xmas concert and sing-along!We’ll wait all the way until the first Sunday in December to properly get into the spirit. Your hosts, the EverHopefuls, will be joined by the fabulous Fisher girls (Harmony, Cadence and Aria), the Golden Bells, a trio featuring Melissa Monforti and Sarah Billerbeck, and JUC friends Bettman and Halpin. You’ll hear holidays songs both traditional and new, sing along with some of your old favorites, and hear endearing holiday stories and poetry from our favorite actor, Marion Rex. You’ll also have the chance to do your heart some good by donating to JUC’s scholarship program for high school students in Guatemala. All this, plus cookies and hot cider from the UUSC task force, plus good fellowship — what could be better?! Bring kids, bring neighbors, bring yourself and bring your voice for I Heart Xmas!

~Steef & Chris Sealy, Bob & Dea Brayden, Bill Mangham, The EverHopefuls

First Friday Open Mic Resumes in DecemberWe know, we know, it’s late this year….but there’s so much

happening at JUC that Friday, December 5, is our first chance to start the 7th season of JUC’s monthly open mic. Come early to check out the Craft Faire, then join us for our adventure in music at 7 p.m. in the chapel. Performers must arrive by 6:50. Admission is free. Child care provided, beer and wine for a modest donation, and there’s always chocolate!

Friday, Dec. 5 • 9 a.m. to 9 p.m.Saturday, Dec. 6 • 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Children’s Activities and Children’s Market: Sat., Dec. 6 •10 a.m. to noon

Handmade crafts include jewelry, candles, pottery, art prints, collectibles, sachets, soaps and much more. Bake sale includes delectable homemade treats, and First Friday Open Mic provides entertainment Friday evening! Don’t miss this fun annual event! Contact: Martin Garnar (720-560-6004; martingarnar@gmail.com).

Chr istmas Eve ServicesWednesday, December 24

Star of WonderIn Evergreen:

4 p.m. Candlelight Service suitable for families

In Golden:4 p.m. “Candlelight” Service

for families with young children

5:30 p.m. Candlelight Service suitable for families with older children

8 p.m. Traditional Candlelight Service (Music starts at 7:30 p.m.)

10 p.m. Meditative Candlelight Service

Special Christmas Eve Plate Collection: All donations collected during Christmas Eve services will be given to local charities. Details to follow in the next edition of The JUC Crier.

Donations of cookies or other holiday treats to share are welcome after the 4, 5:30 and 8 p.m. services!

Nursery care available during the 4 and 5:30 p.m. services.

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Winter Solstice Celebration Sunday, Dec. 21 • 7 p.m. • chapel

Join your community in celebrating the return of the Sun! We’ll sing songs and hear stories of the season. During this family friendly, participatory service, our children will demonstrate what the Solstice is. We will decorate tokens of our intentions for the coming year, and tie them onto our Solstice Wheel. To close the service, we will burn the Wheel to release our intentions to the Universe, and to symbolize the fiery return of the Sun. This is an eclectic UU service, not a traditional pagan Yule, but we will honor the pre-Christian origins of the season. Please bring holiday goodies to share during the social time after the service. Contacts: Pat Emery (stardustpat@gmail.com) and Kalin Baker (kalin@kalinartandspirit.com).

Community EvEnt

Community Carol SingFri., Dec. 19 • 6 p.m. Potluck Supper • 7 p.m. Carol Singing

First Unitarian Society of Denver (1400 Lafayette St., Denver)

‘Tis the holiday season – time to join together and sing! For the potluck supper, we’ll provide chili and drinks, you bring the side dishes. Carol singing will be accompanied by our majestic Hook & Hastings pipe organ, plus our adorable Children’s Choir. Bring your family and friends. Everyone is warmly welcome to this joyous holiday celebration.

New Year’s Eve Concert with WestbrookWednesday, Dec. 31 • 7 p.m.

Ring in the new year! Experience the unique jazz/funk/blues ensemble, Westbrook (featuring Julia Wilson) and enjoy dancing, drinks, appetizers and a champagne toast.

Tickets available at westsidelivepresents.org or in the JUC office. $25 pre sale / $30 day of show

Chr istmas Day Potluck Dinner at JUCThursday, Dec. 25 • Gather at 3 p.m. • Dinner at 4 p.m.

Make festive dinner and fellowship part of your holiday plan this year. Gather with JUC friends on Christmas day for a community potluck meal. All who plan to attend are asked to be sure to sign up so we know you are coming and to let us know what dish you’ll bring. Sign up at the Sign Up Site. There is no deadline since the meal will be 100% potluck. Contact: Sue Parilla (303-279-5282; sueparilla@jeffersonunitarian.org).