the present your january 2014 newsletter gift

Your Monthly Newsletter Gift January 2014 ♥ Volume 11 Issue 1

THE PRESENT

Unity of Surprise ♥ The Church of Practical Christianity ♥ Where Good Happens

Blessings & Bits By Reverend Billie Martini—Minister I’m writing this article the week before our Holly Jolly Christmas Music and Inspirational Program on December 8th. In ministry, it is very prudent to plan at least a quarter of the year in advance. While my heart wants to stay here in this Christmas moment, enjoying every second of it, my job and my sanity requires that I have my mind around January, February and March of 2014, with April thrown in for good measure, since it’s the month of Easter. Sigh

Yesterday, after reading a similar affirmation, I wrote the following for myself: “I will remove any borders and limitations from my thoughts, plans and actions. I prepare for the expansion of my Christ consciousness.” Little did I know, as I read the affirmation to Kathryn, that she would ask me if that will be our Unity of Surprise theme for 2014. And I wisely answered, “why not?” (I know Divine guidance when it’s presented.)

So our Unity of Surprise theme for 2014 is Expansion and the affirmation: “Let us remove borders and limitations from our thoughts, plans and actions. Let us prepare for the expansion of our Christ consciousness.”

When we expand our Christ consciousness or deepen into it, it shows up in our lives in wonderful ways. 2014 is a new year filled with pure potential. The invitation for us then is to take a look at expanding our thoughts, plans and actions to be all we are intended to be, all we came to earth to do. I’d like us all to contemplate the God qualities we have within us and then use these powers to expand into a bigger, grander experience of life and living.

Please join me in expanding here at Unity of Surprise, where Good Happens, where God Happens! Happy New Year!

Unity of Surprise Prayer for 2014 Beginning this year with you God in prayer, we open our whole being to Your loving presence. We seek to know, deepen, expand and experi-ence the Christ presence within us each day of 2014. We affirm divine guidance as we do Your will. Our prayers and affirmations prepare us for a year of goodness one day at a time.

We release any concerns about the well-being of our ministry into Your care and keeping and boldly step into 2014 letting our great big lights shine for all the world to see.

Interested in Giving Reiki? Sunday, January 5 at 11:30 AM Myrtle Fillmore Room Co-Coordinators: Reverend Marcia Gonyea, Reiki Master Phone: 623 328-5241 E-mail: [email protected] Barbara Kramer, Reiki Master Phone: 602 920-1119 E-mail: [email protected]

If you are trained in providing Reiki healing and want to hear more about how Unity is going to provide this service, come to an organizational meeting on Sunday, January 5 at 11:30 a.m. Pick up your snacks in the Grand Canyon Room after service and bring them to the Myrtle Room.

Call or email Barbara or Marty with any questions.

I am a power-filled light in the world.


Side by Side By Carolyn Sodini Serving on the Board for Unity of Surprise is a wonderful sacred service.

Have you ever considered being on the Board?

The qualifications are spelled out in the By-Laws and I’ll put them at the end of this article since looking up By-Laws can seem a tedious experi-ence!

Instead, I will give you my take on what is required and what it means to serve on the Board.

You will have to have time to attend monthly meetings (often on weekends) and an annual retreat, as well as attending Boot Camp and New Member classes. Besides being a member, you have to be over 21, or at least able to remember being 21! Maturity is required. A personal interview with Reverend Billie is part of the process.

Being Internet literate is important. Informal discussions and information, agendas, minutes, calendars from Reverend Billie are all managed by email. It saves a lot of time in conducting the business of the church for all of us.

The By-Laws request that you be a cheerful tither. I think of this as being a CARING tither. That means not only reaping the personal rewards of giving and receiving, but also understanding the responsi-bility for each of us to support our church, keep the A/C on, the rent paid, acknowledging necessary purchases, especially in updating technology, keeping the staff paid, and a myriad of those things it takes to maintain a family, in this case a church family. Being a part of the decision making for the church makes you realty appreciate that we are spiritual but also responsible. Eric Butter-worth, one of my personal favorite authors, talks about putting feet on our prayers. Acting in a spiritual way but acknowledging reality. That means also doing more than just maintaining, but

remembering the universal law of expansion which requires growth; in reality, as well as spirit.

But, most of all, it is such an important way to utilize your talents in serving this community. It is joyful service at its best. I have served on many boards, but this one is unique. There is a caring, lack of judgment, and criticism, an openness in discussion but without personal agendas. None of the board members I have had the privilege to serve with have had an “axe” to grind and are open to listening to the opinions of others. That is so refreshing.

You may think you don’t have the talents or experience for the Board, but we also cheerfully help new Board members to recognize their potential as well as their past talents. That means don’t underestimate yourself!

Take it into prayer if you are interested. Ask questions. Talk to other board members, past and present.

And here are the By-Law requirements:

1. Is at least twenty-one (21 years of age.)

2. Has been an active member of a Unity church for at least one year and of Unity of surprise since the spring membership.

3. Has the time and talent to serve effectively.

4. Endeavors to live in accord with the Jesus Christ principles of Love and Truth as taught by Unity.

5. Is a cheerful tither.

6. Is a sincere and continuing student of Unity and conversant with its teachings.

7. Is not a salaried employee of the church, or the spouse, parent, child or significant other of another Board member or salaried employee.

Reiki Sessions Now Available On Thursday Afternoons


Co-Coordinators: Reverend Marcia Gonyea, Reiki Master Phone: 623 328-5241 E-mail: [email protected] Barbara Kramer, Reiki Master Phone: 602 920-1119 E-mail: [email protected] Rev. Marcia Gonyea* and Barbara Kramer* will be offering 40 minute Reiki sessions every Thursday afternoon with appointments at 11:00, 12:00, 1:00, 2:00, and 3:00. In January, appointments are available on January 9, 16, 23, and 30. (*May be extended to other healers depending on interest to be determined at meeting on January 5. See page 2 for information on the meeting).

What is Reiki?

Reiki is universal energy that the practitioner flows through his/her hands to promote energy balanc-ing and opportunities for healing and meditation. Each session begins and ends with a silent Reiki prayer and ends with a silent gratitude prayer.

Appointments

Individual appoints are required. Call or email Reverend Marcia or Barbara (see above).

Love offering accepted.

Meditation Facilitator, Reverend Billie Tuesday’s from 11—Noon in the Sanctuary

The Faith Lift meditation group continues on Tuesday mornings at 11:00 a.m. Those who attend this group report calmer, more peaceful days. Join us and give the “silence” a chance to transform you.

Caregivers—Nourishing the Heart Group

Samantha D-Stump, Facilitator Alternate Mondays January 6th & 20th 11:00 AM—12:30 PM Myrtle Fillmore Room Caregivers Nourishing the Heart Group is a secular non-medical model with the emphasis on you as a Care Giver. Through friend-ship and sharing you will find that you are not alone and have the support of other’s who are walking the same path. Meeting dates for 2014 are January 6th and 20th at Unity Church of Surprise from 11:00 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. We can be found online at unityofsurprise.org through the Unity of Surprise office at (623) 214-3884.

Samantha Decker Stump, M.S., Family Life Education, Certified Grief Recovery Specialist

A love offering will be accepted and donated to Unity of Surprise.

Widows/Widowers Grief Support Group Alternate Mondays, January 6th & 20th 1:00—3:00 PM in the Myrtle Fillmore Room The Widow/Widower support group is free to attend and open to anyone who has suffered a loss of a significant relationship that is affecting their ability to find joy in their present life.

If you or someone you love is in grief reach out to them and let them know they are not alone and they are welcome at the Widow/Widower support group.

Samantha Decker Stump, M.S., Family Life Education, Certified Grief Recovery Specialist


Let’s Make Music By James Crowley—Music Director

Living Light Book Store Mary Jane Mendias, Team Leader The bookstore team wants to wish everyone a Happy, Healthy and Prosperous new year.

It is a goal of the bookstore to support each of you in your faith walk. The new year is already full of activities. The bookstore has planned four gift basket events, more book signings, and support for all of the new classes. Check in often and see all the new opportunities we have available to help you in expanding your faith.

Thank you so much for supporting Unity of Surprise with your purchases. We now are offering gift certificates to help with your gift giving. They can be used for books or many of the items in the store.

Early Bird Coffee Service Our barista’s are here to serve you delicious flavored coffee before and after the Worship Celebration. Join our barista’s, Dan, Vard, Marion, Lynda & Ralph. Inquire about how to become a barista. Training is available.

Come to church early and enjoy your favorite coffee drink and some good conversation. Our baristas are on duty each Sunday morning 9:00—9:35 am and again after the worship celebration.

You’ll find us located in the Lobby across from the Living Light Bookstore. Enjoy your beverage, socialize, or shop the bookstore. A love offering is accepted.

And so begins a brand new year! My goodness… 2014! It seems like

just yesterday that we were all preparing for the turn of the new century, Y2K, and even a new millennium. And that was fourteen years ago!

With each new year comes the opportunity to begin everything brand new, regardless of what may have come to pass over the previous twelve months. Because, as we all know, it did not come to stay. This is what I love about our burning bowl service. It’s a chance to clean out the old and bring in the new in a peaceful and sacred man-ner. A chance to see what was wonderful in the old year, and maybe, what wasn’t so wonderful. But even so, these are all things from which we can learn and grow.

My sister had surgery last year, just a couple of weeks before Christmas, and it was a very stress-ful and worrisome time. But I know that she is a blessed child of God and, as such, she would be just fine and come through her surgery with flying colors. But that didn’t stop us from worrying. Now, we have a chance to start this year anew and begin building beautiful new memories and miracles that will last forever.

Regardless of what we may face in any given day, we must always remember that we are all children of God and that everything is holy and miraculous. I am learning to be thankful in all situations and to understand that I am a spiritual being who is in this world, but not of this world.

I love you all and I wish you nothing but the best and most prosperous and abundant 2014 you can possibly imagine. I know that’s what I am seeing for me and my family. Blessings to you all!

Let’s Make Music!

♫ ♫

♫

Volunteering is just people being with other people while something gets accom-plished. Put Unity of Surprise volunteering on your 2014 Goals and see how it impacts your life. Blessings in 2014 to all.

Dynamic Spiritual Women Unity Playful Sisters Valerie Griffin ~ Team Leader Video Presentation—“Sisters on Safari” Saturday, January 11th The fun begins at 9:30 AM Location TBA Come take an armchair vacation with the Unity Playful Sisters. You are welcome to invite guests.

Join us for coffee and donuts on Saturday, January 11, 2014 at 9:30 a.m. at our Unity Church for a video presentation, “Sisters on Safari”. Siblings, Patti Masters and Barbara Miller will present a DVD on their “Ultimate African Adven-ture” (which includes Botswana, Zambia and Zimbabwe) which they took in September & October 2013.

Their pictures tell the story of the animals they saw, the facilities they stayed in, a few unusual adven-tures, and some of the additional sightseeing they did in Johannesburg and Cape Town, South Africa. They will also comment on the planning and information they gathered prior to taking the trip. If you have any questions, call Patti at 623 889-1429.

This should be a very exciting and informative event as we vicariously live through Patti and Barbara’s once-in-a-lifetime travels. Please sign up at the Information Table or call Valerie Griffin at 623 328-9471. A love offering will be accepted.


Selfless Service By Carol Sarna—Volunteer Coordinator What has Volunteering at Unity of

Surprise done for me? I believe volunteering has made me feel more a part of the goings on in the church and made me feel like an integral part of the church family. Like any family, you spend more time with certain people because you know them better. Through volunteering and working in the Fellowship kitchen on Sundays, I’ve gotten to know people better, and know more people. Our church family is made up of such a diverse group of back-grounds. I have been amazed by all the things people have done or have been. It takes a while before those conversations come out of people. I’m convinced that without either volunteering or other teamwork events, I wouldn’t know all these things. As we get to know each other, we want to spend more time together socially, too. The social element just keeps growing and widening the circle of friends with like kind beliefs. It just makes life more fun!

Secondly, the feeling of fulfillment is right up there in importance. As we volunteer, we take pride in what we accomplish and how we make others happy...which makes us happy too. Making a Difference is such a fulfilling aspect of life.

Come join me in volunteering and experience this all on your own. At Unity of Surprise volunteering looks like “helping out the church” or “helping to keep the budget working” but in reality, volunteer-ing is this special way of taking on a project we are interested in and participating with others as we get to know each other and create new friend-ships. The teamwork being established gives you that feeling of belonging, too. The budget and helping the church are simply “side effects” of what we do.

So try on something new to you or even something you are good at, and Come Out and Play with US!


Tuesdays, January 14th By Appointment (Charles Room) Acupressure is the practice of applying hand or finger pressure to specific energetic or conductive points on the body. It helps to activate the body’s recuperative ability, assists in diminishing conges-tion and promotes vitality. This hands on work re-leases and strengthens the body’s energy system. It is especially helpful with stress related conditions. It is not meant to replace medical care although it can be an effective complementary therapy.

PJ is offering 20 minute sessions and because of the nature of the work an appointment with PJ is needed. Call PJ at (262) 203-0690 for a session.

A love offering is accepted and donated to Unity.

SEVA Workshop Tuesday, January 21st 1:00—4:00 PM, (Charles Fillmore Room) SEVA is now being offered as a 3 hour workshop for self care here at Unity. SEVA means selfless compassionate service. If you are a caregiver, don’t miss this opportunity to learn how you can use it on your partner. It provides relaxation. This SEVA workshop began on December 17 and will continue to be offered on the 3rd Tuesday of each month. (January 21st and February 18th) The class begins at1:00 p.m. and ends at 4:00 p.m. It is necessary to sign up on the sign up sheet in the lobby, for any handouts. Come join others in learning this beautiful treat-ment that is now being taught in all parts of the U.S. and throughout England, Canada and Europe. It was created by the teachers of Soul Lightening International. It is being taught by PJ Fischer, Certified Acupressure Practitioner and SEVA teacher. See you in the Charles Room.

Vision Board Workshop Marilyn Watkins Sunday, January 12th Noon—1:30 PM after the Worship Service in the Serenity Room We are entering the new year of 2014. Come set your intentions for this new year by creating a vision board. Let your intuition that comes from deep in your soul, guide you to choose pictures that represent what you want to bring into this new year. We all know how powerful visualizations can be. All materials will be provided and no art experience is necessary.

See the sample below of someone’s vision board.

Please sign up so we can plan to have materials for everyone.

A love offering for Unity will be accepted for the workshop.

Taught by Marilyn Watkins, M.A. Arts and Consciousness, JFK University

SEVA Acupressure PJ Fischer


When you read this, we will all be thinking about, or having already taken down all the beautiful Christmas decorations. I know, in order for us to let in the new, we have to release the old, but I love Christmas and when it all gets packed away, it feels bare for just a moment. Maybe that is a good thing, at least I am trying to convince myself.

The holidays at Unity of Surprise were fabulous. Starting with that yummy Thanksgiving dinner where we managed to gobble up everything. What great cooks we have in our membership. And kudos to Carol Anderson for cooking the turkeys and making the stuffing for such a huge group. My favorite picture post dinner were all the tables with empty serving dishes! And observing our hard working volunteers who decorated, set up, and cleaned up. It takes a village to do this and our gratitude is boundless. In addition to a great time and gratitude to all the cooks and bakers, we also had the generosity of Karen Whitmer and an anonymous donor who covered the expense of our caterer. We are truly blessed.

Our Sanctuary and church offices were decorat-ed so beautifully. That was a huge, two day pro-ject. Big thanks to Tamra Stark, our Beautification Team Leader, who led the hard workers. Among them Lonna, Keith, Jim, PJ, Donna and her sister, Linda, Frank, Vard, Patricia and more. Your efforts were appreciated more than we can say!

Ah, James and a wonderful Christmas program

with the Unity orchestra and Scott, Gloria and Beth. This upbeat program put smiles on all the faces who attended. We were standing room only. It was just a big WOW. It was also fun to see the Men of Unity serving as Ushers.

And then there was the Christmas Communion,

Christmas Eve Candle Service, Christmas Day in our PJ’s and all the wonderful lessons from Reverend Billie and “It’s A Wonderful Life” all month long. It took us beyond the movie and into our own lives and how we lead them. Aren’t we glad we live in Bedford Falls? Amen.

So many other events were on our schedule during the holidays. But for now, I want to just bask, one more time, in the glow of Christmas, the Unity

Family, the warm, greet-ing faces, the joy of the holidays. And as we look ahead to 2014, I

know all the decorations and symbols and holiness will remain in our hearts. Happy New Year and blessings to all of us.

Love, Carolyn Sodini

Spotlight on the Spirit of Unity By Carolyn Sodini


Co-Coordinators: Reverends Carol Beyer & Julia Leakey, Thursday, January 16 1:30—4:30 PM Myrtle Fillmore Room Our wonderful teacher, Clare Goldsberry will return this year to share her own Buddhist Philosophy. She will begin with the Indo-Aryan tradition dating back thousands of years. From there she will shed light upon the Vedic Scrip-tures, Vedanta, Hinduism (Upanishads), and ultimately Buddhism. She will explore the evolutionary process of Eastern philosophies, and then discuss the core of Buddhist practices, learning how to transform suffering into “The Path.”

Clare will keep you amazed with her knowledge of the Eastern philosophies. She will delve deeply into the transformation of these evolutionary religions. Remember, as we understand different religions, we come closer to understanding The Oneness and our own deepest knowing’s.

Blessings—hope you will join us.

Dr., Reverend Carol Beyer

Did You Know? Did you know that there are two bookcases in the Lobby with used books on the shelves of both, one spiritual, one secular?

The sign says that they are for sale and if you’d like to purchase them, you can. If you’d like to read them and return, you can do that too. And you can add to the bounty by donating your books for others to enjoy.

Happy Reading!

Reverend Felicia Searcy Presents: “5 Steps to Real Results” Saturday, January 18 10:00 AM—4:00 PM Grand Canyon Room Our Unity of Surprise Boot Camp will be held on Saturday, January 18 at 10:00 a.m.—4:00 p.m. in the Grand Canyon Room.

The Boot Camp is held yearly as a way for current board and wisdom council members, prospective board members, staff, ministry team leaders and anyone else interested in a comprehensive Unity workshop experience to study, learn, laugh and grow together.

This year, Reverend Felicia Searcy will facilitate this interactive seminar and will help us start this year of expansion with inspiring ideas of how we can work together to create greater and greater good here at Unity of Surprise.

Please bring a brown bag for lunch, beverages will be provided.

As with all classes and events at Unity of Surprise, there is no charge, a love offering is accepted.

Dynamic Spiritual Education January Boot Camp Clare Goldsberry Reverend Felicia Searcy

As I love, I bring harmony to my world.

~~~~~~~~~~

I willingly accept my good. My life is in order.

Unity of Surprise ♥ The Church of Practical Christianity ♥ Where Good Happens Page 10

Being a Prayer Chaplain is a new experience for me, which leaves me

humble with the adventure of being worthy of this new position of trust. Before becoming a Prayer Chaplain, I was on the outside looking in at what I thought this position was all about. When I have a moment to be centered and quiet, I believe that I am good in being able to communicate with God and to ask for what I want; my weakness has always been being able to remain quiet and allow God to communicate with me after asking for what I wanted and to listen for the answer(s). Being aware of this ten-dency, I have been more aware of the power and blessings of remaining quiet and allowing my prayers to be answered. This was one of the thoughts that led me to become a Prayer Chaplain (practice makes perfect and I could really use the connection with the God that beats our hearts). What I have discovered in being a Prayer Chaplain is a brand new opportunity to truly listen even more than I ever thought possible. I have come to realize that my mind is jumping to a conclusion of what to pray for when a person is trusting me with the opportunity and privilege to be of service to them. I have quickly learned that this opportunity is also providing me the opportunity to be quiet and truly listen to what the person is asking for. Another motivation for me to become a Prayer Chaplain is my desire to have a heart and mind that is 100% unconditional love. Where there’s no room for personal judgments and opinions, a mind set that allows only the highest truth available which results in a life filled with joy, love, peace and prosperity. What this means to me is

Prayer Chaplain Corner By Joyce Hahn

that my mind set would need to be void of human thoughts and filled with the presence of our Creator. This may appear to be an impossible human goal, but that’s what I want for myself; and I feel that this is what each human being is searching for at their very core. Thank you for this opportunity. I promise to do my best, which means I will continue to perfect my ability to LISTEN.

Confidential Prayer Support Here to pray with you The Unity of Surprise High Watchers prayer team trusts in the creative, regenerating, transformative power of Divine Love.

Through God’s Wisdom, we immerse the dear ones for whom we pray in God’s absolute love. We see these beloved as perfect, whole and complete, limitless and free.

A Prayer Request box is located on the information counter in the lobby and also in the Sanctuary each Sunday.

Remember, God is always with you. All His blessings and goodness are yours by divine inheritance. God is the freeing transformative power within; infinite intelligence and wisdom, always your light and inspiration, healing and harmonizing in every way.

I am guided by inner wisdom.


Purls of Wisdom Crafter’s By Gayle Whitmer Friday, January 24th 10:00 AM—Noon (Charles Fillmore Room) 2014 is going to be another great year for PURLS OF WISDOM CRAFTER’S if it’s anything like the previous year. We donated many hats and lap blankets to the Salvation Army and Hospice of the Valley. I also learned of a new program set up by the Surprise Police Department and spoke with their Victim Advocate. They would love to receive the items we are making for the battered and abused victims and also the homeless. We don’t like to think of these things going on in our own community, however, with unemployment still very high, it is a reality. This is a great opportunity for Unity of Surprise to reach out into the community. We will continue to send our handmade gifts of love to these programs and would be happy to receive any yarn donations to keep our fingers moving. May 2014 be a very prosperous year to you all.

Lunch Bunch Ken & Bonnie Knapp Sunday, January 26th 12:30 PM (Meeting time) Join Ken & Bonnie Knapp on this popular outing to:

N.Y.P.D. Pizza 13980 W Bell Road in Surprise

Directions: SE on RH Johnson to W Meeker Blvd

RIGHT on Meeker , LEFT on US-60 (Grand), RIGHT on N. Litchfield Rd, then LEFT on N Litchfield Rd, RIGHT on Bell Rd. The Restaurant is on the RIGHT. If you reach N Sun Village Pky you’ve gone about 0.3 miles too far.

Tuesday, January 28th 1:30—3:30 PM (Charles Room) Our book for January is an old time favorite, How to Let God Help You by Myrtle Fillmore. Please come to the group with the book read and with a willingness to share your favorite chapter. Facilitated by Reverend Billie.

This book is available in the Living Light Book Store.

Mind, Body, Soul Study Groups ACIM—Friday’s from 1:30—3:00 PM in the Serenity

Room (Open) with Reverend Hal Lafler

Widow/Widow’s Grief Support—Every other Monday from 1—3 PM in the Myrtle Fillmore Room (Open) with Certified Grief Recovery Specialist, Samantha Decker Stump, M.S.

Caregiver’s Nourishing the Heart Group—Every other Monday from 11—12:30 PM in the Myrtle Fillmore Room (Open) with Certified Grief Recovery Specialist, Samantha Decker Stump, M.S.

Book Discussion Group Reverend Billie Martini

I am fully alive, restored and renewed.


Saturday, January 25 at 10:00 AM In the Charles Room Come celebrate your birthday with your Unity family. All those who were born in December and January will get together for a Birthday Brunch on January 25 at 10:00 a.m.

For those of you who have attended the Birthday Brunch in the past, you know what a great time this event is. If you were unable to attend last year, make it a priority this year. It’s lots of fun and a great way to meet people… and we have cake!

Did You Know? Did you know that on the way to the Grand Canyon Room there’s an information counter and an information book case?

The Information Counter has all you will ever need to know about the activities of the month at Unity of Surprise complete with sign up sheets and take home flyers. The information counter is reserved for church activities only.

The Information Book Case has information about things happening in the community at large or things our members and friends are involved in. Everyone is welcome to use these shelves for “non” church related activities and business cards.

Stay informed!

Just a Reminder Sunday lessons can be heard on pod cast. Go to our website www.unityofsurprise.org.

January Birthday’s

Reverend Susan Osborn ♫ January 2

Paula Wiest ♫ January 4

Colleen Grace ♫ January 6

Nancy Minister ♫ January 16

Nancy Grier ♫ January 17

Reverend Hal Lafler ♫ January 30

Birthday Appreciation

Each year Your birthday reminds me

That I really want to say

I’m very glad I know you;

I think of you each day.

I know you’ll enjoy your birthday,

All the pleasures it has in store,

And because I appreciate you,

I hope you have many more! By Joanna Fuchs

Birthday Celebration With Reverend Billie

Through imagination, I open to unlimited

possibilities. ~~~~~~~~

I am enthusiastic about life. ~~~~~~~~

I am filled with faith.


I am a gift to the world.

We’ll be meeting this month to plan the activities for 2014 which we consider “fun” raisers becoming “fund” raisers. We welcome any ideas. Please talk to any one of us after church on Sundays or by email.

We’d like you to make this prayer a prayer of prosperity for yourselves and Unity of Surprise this new year.

Prosperity Prayer Adopted and adapted from The Book of Silent Prayer, by Unity School 1944

God you are my mighty resource. I trust and believe in Your unfailing bounty, con-stantly increasing and multiplying in my thoughts and in my life through my ever expanding Christ Consciousness. Amen

Abundantly Yours, Rev. Denise Landes, [email protected] Robert Jacobson, [email protected] Reverend Billie Martini, [email protected] Mary Jane Mendias, [email protected] Al Shipley, [email protected]

Recovery Groups (Serenity Room)

Miracles Happen A.A.—Tuesday’s from 6—7 PM (Open Meeting)

11th Steppers A.A.—Wednesday’s from 4—5 PM (Open Meeting)

B.B. 164 A.A.—Thursday’s from 6:30—7:30 PM (Closed Meeting)

2-Gether We Can Make It—Al-Anon—Friday’s from 11—12 PM (Open Meeting)

Saturday Morning A.A.—8:30—9:30 AM (Women’s Closed A.A. meeting)

Prosperity Team

Monday, February 24 - Thursday, February 27 At the Embassy Suites in La Quinta, CA Theme: “Evolution-ize Your Ministry”

Keynote Presenter—Reverend Michael Dowd Keynote Musician—Faith Rivera Reverend Billie, Vice President of the SW Unity Region wants everyone to know that they are welcome. The conference, in addition to being exciting, inspiring and renewing is a great way to connect with other Unity people in Southern CA., Utah, a part of New Mexico and Arizona. And rep-resentatives from Unity School and Unity Worldwide Ministries give updates about the Unity Movement.

Brochures are available on the Information Counter.

Unity Playful Sisters Goes to Stardust Theater “Fox on the Fairway” Sunday, February 2nd, at 2:00 PM For all you theater goers who have requested we do a group outing to our local performances again… we have an opportunity to attend “Fox on the Fairway” on Sunday, February 2nd at 2 p.m. at Stardust Theater (across the street from Unity Church). If anyone wants to go out to eat after church prior to the performance, we will carpool to Carrie’s Café on Camino del Sol. “Fox on the Fairway” is a farce highlighting love, life and golf—not necessarily in that order. Please contact Valerie Griffin at 623 328-9471 and/or sign up at the Information Table. It is very important that you include your phone number so I can purchase the right amount of tickets in advance. Tickets are $7.00 per person.

Southwest Region of Unity Churches—2014 Conference


Minister

Reverend Billie Martini

Minister E-mail: [email protected]

Call Reverend Billie if you would like prayer, a home or hospital visit, or spiritual counseling. She is also availa-

ble for baptisms, christenings, memorial or funeral services, weddings, office or home blessings.

Music Director

James Crowley

[email protected]

Administrator

Kathryn Clouther

Church E-mail

[email protected]

Volunteer Coordinator

Carol Sarna

(623) 255-4965

E-mail

[email protected]

Church Main Telephone Number

(623) 214-3884

Church Fax

(623) 214-5223

Reverend Billie Martini—Option 1

Kathryn & General Information—Option 2

Prayer & Inspiration—Option 3

Office Hours

Monday—Thursday

9:30—5:00 PM

Closed on Friday for classes.

Church Website & Facebook

www.unityofsurprise.org & Unity of Surprise

Tuesday Whispers

Connect mid-week with an inspiration e-mail message. To sign up, e-mail Reverend Billie at

[email protected].

Men of Unity Dan Robison

For Your Reference Contact Information

Another month is behind us. We’re becoming busier in the activities of our wonderful church. We are also slowly growing in membership which is exciting as we’re getting to know each other better and meeting new friends. It’s fun to be part of this exceptional group of men.

On Dec. 8 the Men of Unity were the ushers for the full house Christmas Music extravaganza. It was fun watching tall Jim looking over the sanctuary and pointing out empty chairs the rest of us couldn’t see. I think when the service began we only had six chairs unoccupied. We have decided that we will ask Reverend Billie if we can do this at least once a quarter.

Our first Men of Unity breakfast was well received by the seven men who were able to come at the early hour of 7:30 a.m. A couple men said they hadn’t seen a beautiful sunrise in a long time and that alone was worth the effort. We have decided that we will have our breakfast social meetings the last Tuesday of every month at 8:00 a.m. at Mimo’s Bistro in the Sun City West Recreation Center on RH Johnson Blvd. A reminder will be sent out via e-mail to all men who have provided me with their e-mail addresses. You don’t have to be a member of Men of Unity nor the church to attend.

The next meeting of the Men of Unity will be Sunday, January 5th at 11:30 after the friendship sharing. We will meet in the Serenity Room.

Happy New Year to you all.

Dan Robison Team Leader 623 523-1642 [email protected]

Sunday Service 10 AM

Happy New Year

1

11th Steppers A.A. 4:00—5:00 PM

(Open) (Serenity Room)

Big Book Study A.A. (Closed) 6:30-7:30 PM

(Myrtle Room)

2 B.B. 164 A.A. 6:30—7:30 pm

(Closed Meeting)

(Serenity Room)

3 Al-Anon Group 11:00—12:00 PM (Serenity Room)

ACIM 1:30—3:00 PM

Reverend Hal Lafler

(Serenity Room)

4 Sat. AM A.A.

(Closed—Women) 8:30—9:30 AM

(Serenity Room)

5 This Great Big Light

of Mine

Birthday & Anniversary

Men of Unity 11:30 - Serenity Room

Reiki Meeting 11:30 AM in the (Myrtle Room)

6 Caregivers

Nourishing the Heart Group

11:00 AM—12:30 PM Samantha D-Stump Widow/Widowers

Support Group Samantha D-Stump

1:00—3:00 PM (Myrtle Room)

7 Faith Lift

11:00—Noon Reverend Billie

(Sanctuary)

8 11th Steppers A.A.

4:00—5:00 PM (Open)

(Serenity Room) ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Big Book Study A.A.

(Closed Meeting) 6:30-7:30 PM

(Myrtle Room)

9 B.B. 164 A.A. 6:30—7:30 pm

(Closed Meeting) (Serenity Room)

Reiki Session Rev. Marcia Gonyea

By Appt. 623.328.5241

10 Al-Anon Group 11:00—12:00 PM

(Serenity Room)

ACIM 1:30—3:00 PM

Reverend Hal Lafler

(Serenity Room)

11 Sat. AM A.A.


(Serenity Room)

Unity Playful Sisters “Sisters on Safari”

Slide Show of trip to South Africa

9:30 AM-Room TBA

12 Faith like a

Mustard Seed

Vision Board Workshop

Marilyn Watkins, MA Arts & consciousness

Noon—1:30 PM (Serenity Room)

13 Caregivers





14 Faith Lift

11:00—Noon

(Sanctuary)

SEVA 1-4 PM w/PJ Fischer

By Appointment Only

(Charles Room)


4:00—5:00 PM (Open)

(Serenity Room)

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ Big Book Study

A.A. (Closed Meeting)

6:30-7:30 PM (Myrtle Room)

16

B.B. 164 A.A. 6:30—7:30 pm

(Serenity Room)

Dynamic Women of Unity Spiritual Education

“The Development of Buddhist Philosophy”

(Myrtle Room)

Reiki Session Barbara Kramer

By Appt.—602.920.1119

17 Al-Anon Group 11:00—12:00 PM (Serenity Room)

ACIM 1:30—3:00 PM

Reverend Hal Lafler

(Serenity Room)

18 Sat. AM A.A.


(Serenity Room)

Boot Camp 10 AM—4 PM

Rev. Felicia Searcy

(Charles Room)

19 Bear Witness to

the Truth

Rev. Felicia Searcy Guest Speaker

“Do Greater Things

Workshop”

Noon—3:00 PM

20 Caregivers




1:00—3:00 PM

(Myrtle Room)

21 Faith Lift

11:00—Noon Reverend Billie

Facilitator (Sanctuary)

SEVA Class 1-4 PM w/PJ Fischer

Learn How To Perform SEVA on

Yourself (Charles Room)


4:00—5:00 PM (Open)

(Serenity Room)

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ Big Book Study

A.A. (Closed Meeting)

6:30-7:30 PM (Myrtle Room)

23

B.B. 164 A.A. 6:30—7:30 PM


Reiki Session

Rev. Marcia Gonyea By Appt.

623.328.5241

24

Al-Anon Group 11—12 PM

(Serenity Room)

ACIM 1:30—3:00 PM

Reverend Hal Lafler

(Serenity Room)

25 Sat. AM A.A.


(Serenity Room)

Birthday Brunch Dec. & Jan. Birthdays

10:00 a.m. in the (Charles Room)

26

My Unity Tool Box

Lunch Bunch 12:30

Move It Hiking Group 12:30

27 Caregivers





28 Faith Lift

11:00—Noon (Sanctuary)

(

Book Discussion Group

1:30—3:30 PM

(Charles Room)


4:00—5:00 PM (Open)

(Serenity Room)

Big Book Study A.A.

(Closed Meeting) 6:30-7:30 PM

(Myrtle Room)

30 B.B. 164 A.A. 6:30—7:30 pm


Reiki Session

Barbara Kramer By Appt.

623.602.920.1119

31 Purl’s of Wisdom

Craft Group 10-noon (Charles Rm)

Al-Anon Group 11—12 PM

(Serenity Room)

ACIM 1:30—3:00 PM

(Serenity Room)

Sign Up Sheets Located at the

Information Counter in the

Lobby

Sunday Monday Tuesday Wednesday Thursday Friday Saturday

Unity of Surprise 14495 W RH Johnson Blvd

Sun City West, AZ 85375-5671 unityofsurprise.org

[email protected] Phone: (623) 214-3884

Fax: (623) 214-5223

U.S. Postage Paid Sun City, AZ

Permit No. 339 Nonprofit Organization

Board of Trustees Carolyn Sodini—President Jan Karns—Vice President Sandra Helm—Secretary

Reverend Denise Landes—Treasurer Joyce Hahn—Discernmentarian

Vard Miller—Special Events Coordinator

Wisdom Council Pat Shipley

Reverend Marcia Gonyea

2014 Theme ♥ Expansion 10:00 AM Service

January 5

“This Great Big Light of Mine”


January 12

“Faith like a Mustard Seed”


January 19

“Bear Witness to the Truth” Guest Speaker

Reverend Felicia Searcy

January 26

“My Unity Tool Box”


UNITY OF SURPRISE ♥ WHERE GOOD HAPPENS

Unity Worldwide Ministries ♥ Affiliated with Unity ♥ Publishers of the Daily Word Member of the International New Thought Alliance

the present your january 2014 newsletter gift

Documents

unity of surprise prayer

unity of surprise theme

present unity of surprise

christ consciousness

year of goodness

christ presence

reiki master phone

happy new year