Hello friends! I think I'm nearly recovered from GA now, so I am beginning to communicate with the rest of the world again.
Did you see these useful links related to General Assembly?
If you attended GA, give your feedback to the GA Planning Committee with this on-line survey (click the links underlined in blue throughout this message and this entire blog).
To check out audio recordings of programs available for purchase as MP3 playable files or on CDs, go to the "GA Learning Center" and click on the "Educational Content" tab. This is pretty cool, though requiring a few more clicks than I'd prefer. GA 2009 is there, too. You can purchase individual sessions or get the complete conference audio package.
Print and photo reporting, as well as on-demand video, transcripts, and workshop handouts are all available on UUA.org. See the breadth of on-line coverage, blog links, etc., at the GA live summary page. You can even hear Sen. Al Franken, who stopped by for an unscheduled visit and shared a heartfelt personal story that's worth listening to, or hearing again.
Business transacted in plenary sessions, including Social Justice Statements and Annual Reports to the General Assembly, can be found here. This includes the adopted Statement of Conscience on "Creating Peace." There's a link to the current Congregational Study/Action Issue on "Ethical Eating," too (or go there directly by clicking here). You'll find background and resources to help your congregation investigate Food and Environmental Justice through 2012.
Thursday, July 8, 2010
Monday, June 28, 2010
Winona LaDuke's Ware Lecture & Indigenous Issues
Winona LaDuke magnificently packed into < 1 hr all the issues we must address to survive as a planet, at least one populated with humans. Winona does this quite lyrically, tying all her factual points into one big circle of actions required. Did I say inspiring? She had that hall, under the dome designed with the inspiration of R. Buckminster Fuller’s geodesic principle of joined triangles, with 3 thousand UU’s all standing in awe of her passion for a society that looks far different from what you will read this AM in any Sunday paper. Winona is not content to talk about this. She wants action! Please go to the UUA web site and watch the podcast.
Winona has endorsed a UU effort to repudiate the Doctrine of Discovery and to endorse the UN Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous peoples. She spoke about the UN Declaration and the rights still not granted to Indigenous peoples in the UU UN Workshop. She talked about colonialism and conquest at the Ware lecture (based on the Doctrine of Discovery).
A flyer was distributed to those attending the lecture to take this invitation back to their congregations. Please go to the website: www.rd-ad.org for information and actions. Indigenous Peoples nation and worldwide are asking religious movements to do this. The Episcopals as a body repudiated the Doctrine of Discovery in 2009 and Quaker meetings and Quaker organizations are joining the cause. Tarpon Springs, FL UU congregation initiated a statement of conscience on the Doctrine of Discovery in early 2009. They are the first congregation to do so. Both of these, the Doctrine and the Declaration, make weekly appearances in Indian Country today. Both are vital to the cultural preservation of indigenous peoples.
Visit our website. Learn about these issues. Contact us for further information, or to read articles, connect with others who are working on them.
Winona has endorsed a UU effort to repudiate the Doctrine of Discovery and to endorse the UN Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous peoples. She spoke about the UN Declaration and the rights still not granted to Indigenous peoples in the UU UN Workshop. She talked about colonialism and conquest at the Ware lecture (based on the Doctrine of Discovery).
A flyer was distributed to those attending the lecture to take this invitation back to their congregations. Please go to the website: www.rd-ad.org for information and actions. Indigenous Peoples nation and worldwide are asking religious movements to do this. The Episcopals as a body repudiated the Doctrine of Discovery in 2009 and Quaker meetings and Quaker organizations are joining the cause. Tarpon Springs, FL UU congregation initiated a statement of conscience on the Doctrine of Discovery in early 2009. They are the first congregation to do so. Both of these, the Doctrine and the Declaration, make weekly appearances in Indian Country today. Both are vital to the cultural preservation of indigenous peoples.
Visit our website. Learn about these issues. Contact us for further information, or to read articles, connect with others who are working on them.
GA in Phoenix Process
Every UU member and friend would have enjoyed observing the process of a room full of thousands of UU’s carefully, respectfully listening to each other’s perspectives on how to best address the many layers of the immigration law in AZ and how that relates to our GA in Phoenix in 2012.
A movement was actively raising cash donations to pay fees related to pulling out. Last number I saw was $20,000 in individual contributions. People were quite adamant about not crossing the picket line and the need to boycott the state.
Then, some very articulate voices from AZ helped delegates to recognize the best approach was to come to AZ, but minimize normal GA activities to focus on social justice work in the community instead of holding lengthy plenary sessions. Apparently, that will be an off year when we are not considering which issue will become study/action issue for the following year, so easy to keep any meeting time to a minimum.
There was quite a bit of debate time spent adding and subtracting language that would limit “normal” GA meeting activities. To me, it was thrilling to watch a huge ship, of thousands of minds moving in one direction, shift quite abruptly to this new idea: continue to commit to AZ, but with the focus on actions to assist the people most oppressed by the immigration bill as currently written. This shift resulted from one or two articulate voices expressing quite passionately what UU’s could do with this as a focus. I was was moved to see this shift manifest, as moderator called for votes. First fairly evenly divided between for and against, but finally a forest of yellow cards go up at once, followed by a handful in final opposition to this solution seeking action vs. talking about it.
It was the most amazing development in what started as a very divisive conflict of positions. Before the vote there was a mini worship service where we centered ourselves to Stand on the Side of Love in our discussion and ultimate decision. Be proud to be a part of this marvelous association of people.
A movement was actively raising cash donations to pay fees related to pulling out. Last number I saw was $20,000 in individual contributions. People were quite adamant about not crossing the picket line and the need to boycott the state.
Then, some very articulate voices from AZ helped delegates to recognize the best approach was to come to AZ, but minimize normal GA activities to focus on social justice work in the community instead of holding lengthy plenary sessions. Apparently, that will be an off year when we are not considering which issue will become study/action issue for the following year, so easy to keep any meeting time to a minimum.
There was quite a bit of debate time spent adding and subtracting language that would limit “normal” GA meeting activities. To me, it was thrilling to watch a huge ship, of thousands of minds moving in one direction, shift quite abruptly to this new idea: continue to commit to AZ, but with the focus on actions to assist the people most oppressed by the immigration bill as currently written. This shift resulted from one or two articulate voices expressing quite passionately what UU’s could do with this as a focus. I was was moved to see this shift manifest, as moderator called for votes. First fairly evenly divided between for and against, but finally a forest of yellow cards go up at once, followed by a handful in final opposition to this solution seeking action vs. talking about it.
It was the most amazing development in what started as a very divisive conflict of positions. Before the vote there was a mini worship service where we centered ourselves to Stand on the Side of Love in our discussion and ultimate decision. Be proud to be a part of this marvelous association of people.
Sunday, June 27, 2010
Tragedy in Transylvania
Much sadness in the UU world today, as we learned the tragic news of the murder of two children by, and the suicide of, a Unitarian minister in his Transylvanian church. We grieve for the loss of innocents, and for the torment and despair of our brother, passing all understanding. We grieve, and we hold this community in our hearts.
Saturday, June 26, 2010
Saturday afternoon, Plenary - Arizona
My first plenary was exciting, and yet confusing. I wasn’t entirely sure what was happening most of the time, but what I did know got me by. I got there around 5:15 or so, right at the beginning of the Arizona – Immigration movement. As I watched from the front of the hall, I was entranced by this form of debate I had yet to witness before today. Though I was annoyed by the amount of procedure questions throughout the entire thing (Seriously, guys? You don’t need to start several debates about whether or not you can have more time. You’re wasting time just by asking for more time.), the whole event was very amusing to watch.
I got lost several times, and I wasn't entirely sure what they were talking about half the time, but I did get the gist of it. Basically, some people thought we should go about GA 2012 in Arizona as normal, while others thought that GA business should be cancelled in favor of everyone still coming to Arizona but instead of regular meetings, they should boycott Arizona.
At least thats what I think was happening. They got off topic many times so it was hard to tell.
One of the people that stood out more than anyone else was a man who said something along the lines of "we should boycott Arizona, because of the people who cannot boycott: The people of Arizona."
Another was a woman who said something similar to "It is not okay to cross a picket line because of a normal General Assembly, we need to cross a picket line for a real protest."
Those two people almost made me cry. People were applauding like crazy and nodding along and I was just sitting there thinking, 'WOW. These guys ROCK!'
Finally, by the time everyone shared their thoughts (well, mostly...), time was up and at about 6:25 or so they took a vote, and guess what? The original motion carried! Which I think means we're going to Arizona for a protest, but dont hold me to that. I was a bit distracted through parts of it from the ceiling dripping water on me.
I got lost several times, and I wasn't entirely sure what they were talking about half the time, but I did get the gist of it. Basically, some people thought we should go about GA 2012 in Arizona as normal, while others thought that GA business should be cancelled in favor of everyone still coming to Arizona but instead of regular meetings, they should boycott Arizona.
At least thats what I think was happening. They got off topic many times so it was hard to tell.
One of the people that stood out more than anyone else was a man who said something along the lines of "we should boycott Arizona, because of the people who cannot boycott: The people of Arizona."
Another was a woman who said something similar to "It is not okay to cross a picket line because of a normal General Assembly, we need to cross a picket line for a real protest."
Those two people almost made me cry. People were applauding like crazy and nodding along and I was just sitting there thinking, 'WOW. These guys ROCK!'
Finally, by the time everyone shared their thoughts (well, mostly...), time was up and at about 6:25 or so they took a vote, and guess what? The original motion carried! Which I think means we're going to Arizona for a protest, but dont hold me to that. I was a bit distracted through parts of it from the ceiling dripping water on me.
Peter Morales addresses the Assembly - Saturday 6/26
Each year at GA, part of the Plenary agenda includes a report from the UUA President. Plenary includes seemingly unending reports that represent vital work of the Association, and I try to appreciate them in that spirit, over the long hours of presentation. But I actually scan through the business agenda and mark when the president is scheduled to speak, so I'm sure to arrive early and settle in to listen. Here's some of what I took in from Peter Morales this year.
Peter noted that while the UUA has been challenged with economic downturn (including a $4 million reduction in revenue this year), and steady decline in numbers of members, we still have bright spots in the stories of our congregations, including those hightlighted as "Breakthrough Congregations." The strength and vitality of our congregations remain in our people, and comes up through our congregations -- we are not a "top-down" faith. Peter is proud of our continuing social witness, particularly in the demonstrations around the country that we are Standing on the Side of Love with people of faith working for justice. Peter is proud of UUA curricula that have been released to assist congregations with religious education for all ages, and for leadership development and social justice consciousness. Peter also noted that the UUA recently moved its investment funds, including staff and minisers' retirement funds, from Fidelity when it refused to commit to socially responsible investing.
Peter is encouraged by the evolution of our UUA website, to make it more user-friendly and current. He's been delighted with the "Religion for Our Time" videos that have been featured on the website, telling the stories of Unitarian Universalism through the acts and presence of our congregations. He's proud that Beacon Press has published the King Legacy, entrusted to us by the family of the Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.
Peter spoke of his priority on developing initiatives to support congregational growth and vitality. One such effort will take advantage of the experience of our boldest, fastest growing congregations, in mentoring other congregations who are on the threshhold of growth and greater impact in their communities.
Peter reflected on our gratitude to the countless indivdual UUs whose leadership provides the strength of our faith, and presented a volunteer award to one whose long dedication and involvement has been exemplary. Peter also remains excited about the partnership of the UUA and UU Service Committee, which carries our work for justice and compassion around the world.
Presidential addresses to the General Assembly are often an exercise in trying to cram mention of as many programs and accomplishments as possible into a very short period of time, while still conveying a sense of excitement and personal investment. This first annual report from Peter didn't vary much from the standard formula, but I was touched when Peter choked up as he thanked the Assembly for allowing him to serve as President.
Peter has some rough edges, maybe. But I admire his heart and his authenticity. I'm looking forward to seeing where he takes us.
Peter noted that while the UUA has been challenged with economic downturn (including a $4 million reduction in revenue this year), and steady decline in numbers of members, we still have bright spots in the stories of our congregations, including those hightlighted as "Breakthrough Congregations." The strength and vitality of our congregations remain in our people, and comes up through our congregations -- we are not a "top-down" faith. Peter is proud of our continuing social witness, particularly in the demonstrations around the country that we are Standing on the Side of Love with people of faith working for justice. Peter is proud of UUA curricula that have been released to assist congregations with religious education for all ages, and for leadership development and social justice consciousness. Peter also noted that the UUA recently moved its investment funds, including staff and minisers' retirement funds, from Fidelity when it refused to commit to socially responsible investing.
Peter is encouraged by the evolution of our UUA website, to make it more user-friendly and current. He's been delighted with the "Religion for Our Time" videos that have been featured on the website, telling the stories of Unitarian Universalism through the acts and presence of our congregations. He's proud that Beacon Press has published the King Legacy, entrusted to us by the family of the Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.
Peter spoke of his priority on developing initiatives to support congregational growth and vitality. One such effort will take advantage of the experience of our boldest, fastest growing congregations, in mentoring other congregations who are on the threshhold of growth and greater impact in their communities.
Peter reflected on our gratitude to the countless indivdual UUs whose leadership provides the strength of our faith, and presented a volunteer award to one whose long dedication and involvement has been exemplary. Peter also remains excited about the partnership of the UUA and UU Service Committee, which carries our work for justice and compassion around the world.
Presidential addresses to the General Assembly are often an exercise in trying to cram mention of as many programs and accomplishments as possible into a very short period of time, while still conveying a sense of excitement and personal investment. This first annual report from Peter didn't vary much from the standard formula, but I was touched when Peter choked up as he thanked the Assembly for allowing him to serve as President.
Peter has some rough edges, maybe. But I admire his heart and his authenticity. I'm looking forward to seeing where he takes us.
Friday Morning Worship
I have visions of puppets overtaking our chancels. I have visions of Story for All Ages being acted out by huge caricatures of our ancestors. I have visions of So imagine my delight during Friday morning worship at
If your congregation uses puppets in worship and/or religious education, please contact me.
Friday, June 25, 2010
Friday Night Dance - a night for all ages...but mostly young people
Friday night's dance, a supposedly 80's themed dance, was thoroughly enjoyable. Though the night started out with mostly people over the age of 35, the night quickly progressed to being a mostly youth and young adult evening. The dance floor quickly filled as the playlist switched from songs like Sweet Caroline by Neil Diamond, to more upbeat modern songs like Ke$ha's Tik Tok. Though that did not stop some adults who frequented the outskirts of the youth mob, dancing along and getting involved the UU way, with acceptance. Understandably as the teens and young adults got more and more into the whole high-school-dance feeling, the adults retreated further and further back to the other side of the room. Conversing with one another and enjoying the party feeling.
The dance floor was filled with proper behavior, and several songs that had well known dances to them, like the Macarena, Twist and Shout, YMCA and even Soulja Boy. These were hits as many adults got up and quickly joined in. The atmosphere was filled with a very pleasant feeling of community, happiness and body odor.
The dance floor was filled with proper behavior, and several songs that had well known dances to them, like the Macarena, Twist and Shout, YMCA and even Soulja Boy. These were hits as many adults got up and quickly joined in. The atmosphere was filled with a very pleasant feeling of community, happiness and body odor.
Thursday, June 24, 2010
Service of the Living Tradition - a younger perspective
Hi all,
Thursday night's Service was wonderful. As a 17 year old attending, I was in fact wary at first. I've never been a big fan of Services of any kind but between the songs and the woman (who's name I'm unaware of) speaking about her daughter and the Velveteen Rabbit, I felt strangely connected. When she brought up the childrens stories, I was at first bored. Many ministers have gone down that path (My mother included) so I thought to myself, "Oh dear, not again." But the way she spun it was entirely clever and very darling. I loved the parts about loving someone until their ugly and all loved out. It was a perfect service. And when they honored those ministers who died the past year? Tears everywhere in the audience. I even got a little wetness around the eyes. It was amazing.
So thats mine.
Wait for more updates coming soon!
Thursday night's Service was wonderful. As a 17 year old attending, I was in fact wary at first. I've never been a big fan of Services of any kind but between the songs and the woman (who's name I'm unaware of) speaking about her daughter and the Velveteen Rabbit, I felt strangely connected. When she brought up the childrens stories, I was at first bored. Many ministers have gone down that path (My mother included) so I thought to myself, "Oh dear, not again." But the way she spun it was entirely clever and very darling. I loved the parts about loving someone until their ugly and all loved out. It was a perfect service. And when they honored those ministers who died the past year? Tears everywhere in the audience. I even got a little wetness around the eyes. It was amazing.
So thats mine.
Wait for more updates coming soon!
Service of the Living Tradition
It's been quite a General Assembly for me so far! Tonight was the "Service of the Living Tradition" - a sweet event I look forward to every year I'm lucky enough to attend General Assembly.
We honor those who serve our congregations as ministers and professional religious leaders: We remember the Ministers who have died in the past year. We recognize the Ministers who are retiring. We congratulate the Ministers who have been granted final Fellowship after initial service to our faith. We welcome the Ministers who have just been given preliminary Fellowship, having met our standards of preparation and formation. And we celebrate those individuals who have achieved credentials as Religious Educators and Music Leaders.
Kudos to those leaders currently serving in the Pacific Northwest (including B.C.) who we honored this evening:
Tandi Rogers, Credentialed Religious Educator - Masters Level
Eric Kaminetzky, Preliminary Fellowship (UU Ministry)
Julia McKay, Preliminary Fellowship
Tracy Springberry, Preliminary Fellowship
Antonia Won, Preliminary Fellowship
Rev. Carol McKinley, Final Fellowship
Rev. Marcia Scheckel, Final Fellowship
Rev. Heather Starr, Final Fellowship
Rev. Connie Yost, Final Fellowship
Thank you for your commitment to our congregations and to Unitarian Universalist ministries of many kinds!
We honor those who serve our congregations as ministers and professional religious leaders: We remember the Ministers who have died in the past year. We recognize the Ministers who are retiring. We congratulate the Ministers who have been granted final Fellowship after initial service to our faith. We welcome the Ministers who have just been given preliminary Fellowship, having met our standards of preparation and formation. And we celebrate those individuals who have achieved credentials as Religious Educators and Music Leaders.
Kudos to those leaders currently serving in the Pacific Northwest (including B.C.) who we honored this evening:
Tandi Rogers, Credentialed Religious Educator - Masters Level
Eric Kaminetzky, Preliminary Fellowship (UU Ministry)
Julia McKay, Preliminary Fellowship
Tracy Springberry, Preliminary Fellowship
Antonia Won, Preliminary Fellowship
Rev. Carol McKinley, Final Fellowship
Rev. Marcia Scheckel, Final Fellowship
Rev. Heather Starr, Final Fellowship
Rev. Connie Yost, Final Fellowship
Thank you for your commitment to our congregations and to Unitarian Universalist ministries of many kinds!
Thursday Afternoon
I *think* I'm accomplishing things. Turns out "governance" is the code word meaning "The UUA Trustees will be present and interested," and so far I've exchanged contact data with 3, in venues I otherwise wouldn't have thought to participate in. In trying to implement "policy governance," they need to learn a lot about requirements documentation, democratic process (policy governance is autocratic by design), and transparency in communications. Lewis Finney accepted some of my library list on these subjects.
In selecting a site for a convention, checking for cellphone reception and free email access should be more important, and with water going for a buck a glass at the "cafe," it'd be nice if the free water fountains in the hallways delivered more than a dribble. If I can *find* a water bottle here, I'll start carrying it.
Didn't run into any of our other bloggers at the District In-Gathering, but I did have to dive out of the room in a hurry at the end of the meeting. I'll be spending what spare time I can generate at the UU's for Poly Awareness booth in the Exhibition Hall if anyone wants to grab me.
In selecting a site for a convention, checking for cellphone reception and free email access should be more important, and with water going for a buck a glass at the "cafe," it'd be nice if the free water fountains in the hallways delivered more than a dribble. If I can *find* a water bottle here, I'll start carrying it.
Didn't run into any of our other bloggers at the District In-Gathering, but I did have to dive out of the room in a hurry at the end of the meeting. I'll be spending what spare time I can generate at the UU's for Poly Awareness booth in the Exhibition Hall if anyone wants to grab me.
Wednesday, June 23, 2010
PNW Youth Leadership at GA
First picture: Michael Han (University Unitarian Church) is the GA HUUPER (Hardcore UU Person Energized and Ready)
Second picture: Caleb Raible-Clark (University Unitarian Church) is the GA Youth Chaplain
Discussing Governance Changes *Before* the Vote
Dick Jackie had scheduled a lunch for Sunday to discuss the proposed governance changes, but as I read the schedule we'll be *voting* on those changes Saturday morning. I'd like to open a discussion on the subject this (Wednesday) evening, after the In-gathering that runs from 6:45pm to 7:30pm. We can meet at the In-Gathering.
Expecting the Unexpected
So it's Wednesday morning, and I'm real glad I allowed Tuesday for travel-recovery, though I'll spare you the details. I've gone through the Program Guide Janine referenced, also (with my web-design hat on) wondering why I wasn't able to find that link myself before she pointed it out. And I'm only triple-booked 3 times, which is not bad for a five-track convention.
My host has loaned me a bicycle, and having had the foresight to bring lights and a lock and the weather at 6am this morning having been marvelous, I may well use it -- *after* today, as I'm going to be travelling at about noon, at which time the weather forecast suggest hot and extremely muggy. Thursday through Saturday, though, stuff starts at 7am and goes 'til midnight, and 6am and 1am should have ideal biking weather.
I have a long history at making excellent progress at right angles to my intended direction, so I half-anticipate ending up doing something wonderful and completely outside of any existent plans. We'll see how it goes.
Monday, June 21, 2010
Tandi’s Tips to Make the Most of Your General Assembly Experience
Internet portal to all things GA: http://www.uua.org/events/generalassembly/
Unitarian Universalist Association of Congregations’ Blog: http://www.uuworld.org/news/ga/
• Before you go to General Assembly (GA), skim the Pacific Northwest District of congregations (www.pnwd.org under “Congregations”) or your own district. Find congregations that are similar in size, and make a list. At the General Assembly, seek out people from those congregations who are in similar leadership roles as you and compare notes. What is working well? What are challenges? What are possible solutions? Swap contact information and keep in touch. There is a message board at GA where you can post and receive messages to people.
• Even better – contact folks ahead of GA and arrange regular meetings (breakfasts?) to debrief the experience and start plotting collaboration and support once we’re back home.
• Be extra-friendly to the folks working the General Assembly – they are all volunteers and our UU brothers and sisters.
• Sing out at the Opening Worship and let the rush of celebrating with thousands of Unitarian Universalists from all over our continent sink into your bones. Let our collective energy feed your spirit. After each worship service ask what you liked best and how you can bring that nugget home to your own worship.
• Seek out district board members and your Unitarian Universalist Association of Congregations trustee and tell them what your greatest hopes are for our religion and your congregation. Our boards set the vision for our collective ministry with long range dreaming. Tell them what your priorities are.
• Seek out U.U.A. of C. staff with your questions. Tell us what you need to build a vibrant, thriving religious community. During Plenary staff sit in a block to the front-left when facing the stage.
• Go to a workshop that speaks to a need in your congregation. Before you leave General Assembly, create a plan for how you will apply what you learned back in your home congregation.
• Go to a workshop that speaks to a personal passion or interest. Before you leave General Assembly, create a plan for how you will apply what you’ve learned back in your home congregation and/or your personal life.
• Keep some extra room in your suitcase for the wonderful Unitarian Universalist clothing and jewelry available in the display booth area. Everyone should have at least one piece of UU jewelry to wear.
• Keep the energy going! When you return to your congregation, schedule some coffee time with key folks to share what you learned. Give them copies of the hand-outs and your notes. Write an article for your congregation’s newsletter. Make yourself available at coffee hour for people who are interested. Seek out the next group of leaders who should go to General Assembly 2011 to represent your congregation and bring back inspiration, perspective, connections, and ideas to help your religious community be all that it can be.
Unitarian Universalist Association of Congregations’ Blog: http://www.uuworld.org/news/ga/
• Before you go to General Assembly (GA), skim the Pacific Northwest District of congregations (www.pnwd.org under “Congregations”) or your own district. Find congregations that are similar in size, and make a list. At the General Assembly, seek out people from those congregations who are in similar leadership roles as you and compare notes. What is working well? What are challenges? What are possible solutions? Swap contact information and keep in touch. There is a message board at GA where you can post and receive messages to people.
• Even better – contact folks ahead of GA and arrange regular meetings (breakfasts?) to debrief the experience and start plotting collaboration and support once we’re back home.
• Be extra-friendly to the folks working the General Assembly – they are all volunteers and our UU brothers and sisters.
• Sing out at the Opening Worship and let the rush of celebrating with thousands of Unitarian Universalists from all over our continent sink into your bones. Let our collective energy feed your spirit. After each worship service ask what you liked best and how you can bring that nugget home to your own worship.
• Seek out district board members and your Unitarian Universalist Association of Congregations trustee and tell them what your greatest hopes are for our religion and your congregation. Our boards set the vision for our collective ministry with long range dreaming. Tell them what your priorities are.
• Seek out U.U.A. of C. staff with your questions. Tell us what you need to build a vibrant, thriving religious community. During Plenary staff sit in a block to the front-left when facing the stage.
• Go to a workshop that speaks to a need in your congregation. Before you leave General Assembly, create a plan for how you will apply what you learned back in your home congregation.
• Go to a workshop that speaks to a personal passion or interest. Before you leave General Assembly, create a plan for how you will apply what you’ve learned back in your home congregation and/or your personal life.
• Keep some extra room in your suitcase for the wonderful Unitarian Universalist clothing and jewelry available in the display booth area. Everyone should have at least one piece of UU jewelry to wear.
• Keep the energy going! When you return to your congregation, schedule some coffee time with key folks to share what you learned. Give them copies of the hand-outs and your notes. Write an article for your congregation’s newsletter. Make yourself available at coffee hour for people who are interested. Seek out the next group of leaders who should go to General Assembly 2011 to represent your congregation and bring back inspiration, perspective, connections, and ideas to help your religious community be all that it can be.
Saturday, June 19, 2010
Invitation to Discussion of Proposed Governance Changes
During this year's General Assembly, you will be hearing a lot about some of the proposed changes to UUA Governance that are being proposed by the UUA Board. There are changes which would affect the election and terms of the President and Moderator, the size of the UUA Board, the nature, format, and frequency of General Assemblies, and the manner in which our Districts fit into this whole framework.
Members of the Pacific Northwest District Board invite you to a Discussion Group to get answers to your questions about these proposals and to invite your feedback on the merits of the different elements being considered. The group will meet in the Marquette Room of the Hilton Hotel on Sunday afternoon, June 27, from 1 pm to 2:15 pm (between two plenary sessions).
Please bring a lunch and join us!
Members of the Pacific Northwest District Board invite you to a Discussion Group to get answers to your questions about these proposals and to invite your feedback on the merits of the different elements being considered. The group will meet in the Marquette Room of the Hilton Hotel on Sunday afternoon, June 27, from 1 pm to 2:15 pm (between two plenary sessions).
Please bring a lunch and join us!
My bags are packed, I'm ready to go...
And for some reason while I was taking a nap in mid-packing, I had a very vivid dream of turning my suitcase into a nightstand. This is unusual for me; I usually do my dreaming while I'm awake. My head hits the pillow and *boom*, I'm out. I may not *stay* asleep, but *getting* there is easy.
This is going to be my first GA; I've been involved with UUism for just over a year. I did attend the PNWD meeting in Bellevue, and had a couple of good conversations with Peter Morales there, that I attempted to continue via email. I think I need to be a better correspondent.
What I'd asked Peter was "Are we, UU's, a People?" His answer was "No, we aren't, and I don't think we can become one," mentioning congregational polity as a main reason why. Given how often I've heard people around UUFC quote "We are a people of values, not creeds," it suggested to me I had asked the wrong question.
It seems obvious to me that UUism is both a religion and *some sort* of social entity; perhaps the word "People" isn't quite the right label for it, but we're a *something*, and we can name ourselves at our mutual conveniences.
Back on the religion aspect, Gretchen (my minister) had quoted a definition I had found very useful: "It comes from the Latin "religare," meaning "to tie together;" a religion ties all of life together." So we try to tie our lives together with our values; good so far.
So why do I need to tie my life together by my values in Minneapolis? I've attended *other* conventions and meetings before, but I doubt GA is going to bear much resemblance to a science fiction convention, Loving More retreat, stockholder's meeting, or Black Rose. It *is* suppose to be a business meeting, so I read up on all the issues and sent out an email to 30 other congregations (in 3 areas, PNW, Los Angeles, and greater Washington D.C.), saying roughly "Hi, I'm new here. I'd like to talk about the issues we're going to be working on at GA *before* we get there, could you put me in touch with your delegates, please?"
Thirty letter out, three responses back. On the one hand, a good response rate for cold-calling is 2%; my 10% is pretty good by that standard. On the other, if we are supposed to be a welcoming people and the response of 90% of our congregations is to blow off newcomers, we're not doing very well.
Of the three responses I got, one said "We don't have any delegates," and the other two, roughly paraphrased, said "Why are you letting work interfere with your vacation junket?"
Part of the reason I joined in the first place is that I *like* work. I'm chair of the Building and Grounds committee, I serve on the Program Council and Communications committees, I've proposed a project to our Environmental Action Council for cleaning up the Great Pacific Trash Patch, I'm working on creating a UU Kibbutz, and I'm trying to get our youth program to adopt a local pirate festival as a way of opening discussions on responsible rebellion. I don't *do* either vacations or junkets; my preferred method of resting is to switch projects and work on something different for a while. And every now and then my body overrules me on that and we Have A Nap, Right Now.
But the people who are going to Minneapolis for a vacation junket or 'spiritual experience' are as much Our People as I am. As New Kid On The Block, it is *not* my job to walk in the door and say to the assembled "You're doing it wrong." Having a spiritual experience is a fine thing to be doing; so is having a business meeting. *I* can't do both at once, but maybe some others of our people are more gifted in this regard than I am.
I'm not as good at short posts as I would like to be. I may have only just scratched the surface, but that's all an introduction is supposed to do. So how are *you* doing and what would you like me to do for you in Minneapolis?
This is going to be my first GA; I've been involved with UUism for just over a year. I did attend the PNWD meeting in Bellevue, and had a couple of good conversations with Peter Morales there, that I attempted to continue via email. I think I need to be a better correspondent.
What I'd asked Peter was "Are we, UU's, a People?" His answer was "No, we aren't, and I don't think we can become one," mentioning congregational polity as a main reason why. Given how often I've heard people around UUFC quote "We are a people of values, not creeds," it suggested to me I had asked the wrong question.
It seems obvious to me that UUism is both a religion and *some sort* of social entity; perhaps the word "People" isn't quite the right label for it, but we're a *something*, and we can name ourselves at our mutual conveniences.
Back on the religion aspect, Gretchen (my minister) had quoted a definition I had found very useful: "It comes from the Latin "religare," meaning "to tie together;" a religion ties all of life together." So we try to tie our lives together with our values; good so far.
So why do I need to tie my life together by my values in Minneapolis? I've attended *other* conventions and meetings before, but I doubt GA is going to bear much resemblance to a science fiction convention, Loving More retreat, stockholder's meeting, or Black Rose. It *is* suppose to be a business meeting, so I read up on all the issues and sent out an email to 30 other congregations (in 3 areas, PNW, Los Angeles, and greater Washington D.C.), saying roughly "Hi, I'm new here. I'd like to talk about the issues we're going to be working on at GA *before* we get there, could you put me in touch with your delegates, please?"
Thirty letter out, three responses back. On the one hand, a good response rate for cold-calling is 2%; my 10% is pretty good by that standard. On the other, if we are supposed to be a welcoming people and the response of 90% of our congregations is to blow off newcomers, we're not doing very well.
Of the three responses I got, one said "We don't have any delegates," and the other two, roughly paraphrased, said "Why are you letting work interfere with your vacation junket?"
Part of the reason I joined in the first place is that I *like* work. I'm chair of the Building and Grounds committee, I serve on the Program Council and Communications committees, I've proposed a project to our Environmental Action Council for cleaning up the Great Pacific Trash Patch, I'm working on creating a UU Kibbutz, and I'm trying to get our youth program to adopt a local pirate festival as a way of opening discussions on responsible rebellion. I don't *do* either vacations or junkets; my preferred method of resting is to switch projects and work on something different for a while. And every now and then my body overrules me on that and we Have A Nap, Right Now.
But the people who are going to Minneapolis for a vacation junket or 'spiritual experience' are as much Our People as I am. As New Kid On The Block, it is *not* my job to walk in the door and say to the assembled "You're doing it wrong." Having a spiritual experience is a fine thing to be doing; so is having a business meeting. *I* can't do both at once, but maybe some others of our people are more gifted in this regard than I am.
I'm not as good at short posts as I would like to be. I may have only just scratched the surface, but that's all an introduction is supposed to do. So how are *you* doing and what would you like me to do for you in Minneapolis?
Why even nonbelievers should read the Bible...
None of the kids in the UU youth Sunday School class I teach has read the Bible, although they know some of the more familiar stories (some wrongly) and are adamant about not believing it to be "true". Have you? Here is the list of reasons I think you should read it, even if you are a "nonbeliever":
1. To enhance your understanding of history and early ways of life. After all, the Old Testament is one of the oldest written records around.
2. To understand pervasive cultural and literary references to the Bible in western civilization. You'll miss the nuances in much of English literature if you haven't read what the authors assume you have.
3. To enhance your ability to communicate with Jews and Christians. As an educated person in a pluralistic society, you need to know where some of their values (and some of yours) come from.
4. To provide context for modern and current events. Rational self-interest doesn't explain everything that goes on in the Middle East.
5. To provide perspective on religious and ethical questions. They've been on people's minds for a long time.
6. To know what others believe and/or have found meaningful. Why have so many good and smart people taken these teachings seriously?
7. To decide for yourself if you believe what the Bible says, and whether you find literal or metaphorical wisdom therein.
Can you think of additional reasons?
If you google the question, you'll turn up a lot of fundamentalist Christian sites that assert that the Bible is the literal Word of God. They promise you salvation - an afterlife - if you read and believe the Bible, or at least the New Testament. Nothing comes up that echoes my list. Maybe UUs should rectify that and take a stand for literacy and for skeptical exegesis. Let's not let our younger generation be bound by ignorance.
I started at about Junior High School age voluntarily to read the Bible at a pace of about a chapter a night. It took a long time to finish, but it was quite interesting and led to a lot of enlightening discussions with parents and Sunday School teachers, and to the benefits touted above.
What do you think? Should we encourage this kind of study? Do you have a better idea?
Friday, June 18, 2010
Indigenous Issues at GA
I'd like to introduce myself. I'm Beth Brownfield, member of the Bellingham Unitarian Fellowship since 2004, when we moved here from Minneapolis, MN.
I'm excited to return to a city and friends that I love, and for the opportunity to attend General Assembly once again. My particular interest in GA this year is the Ware Lecture given by Winona La Duke, a personal friend of mine, who I worked with over many years. Winona is the first Native American to give the Ware Lecture. She delivers hard messages, but in a way where one is left empowered rather than defensive. Winona is a non-stop activist. Her mission in life is to protect the earth. She works mainly with tribal nations throughout North American, but also lectures extensively at conferences and symposiums.
Besides the Ware Lecture, Winona will be on a panel sponsored by the UU UN Office (Friday, June 25, 4:30 - 5:45). The title of the workshop is: "Global Blueprint for Cultural Survival: Indigenous Peoples' Rights". The workshop will focus on the United Nations Declaration of the Rights of Indigenous Peoples that is seen as a tool to ensure the survival of Native cultures worldwide. (This declaration was endorsed by over 140 countries, 11 abstained, and the U.S., Canada, New Zealand, and Australia all voted NO on it. Since then New Zealand, Australia and Canada have moved towards formal endorsement. The U.S. is now taking comments on the State Department's website and may revisit their decision later this summer.) In this same workshop Winona will especially emphasize how climate change is effecting Native Peoples.
I personally have a strong commitment to help build bridges between native and non native communities and have worked as a volunteer in this effort since the late 70s. At the Ware lecture Dave Weiman (Peoria UU Church) and I are launching an initiative to engage UU congregations nationwide in working with Native Peoples to repudiate the Doctrine of Discovery, and to endorse the UN Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples. Our flyer can be found on our website. It will be distributed by the ushers when they hand out the program for the evening.
Please visit our website for the details. Winona will speak about both the Doctrine of Discovery and the UN Declaration at both the UU UN workshop, and the Ware Lecture. The web address is: www.rd-ad.org. I'll be bringing this effort back to PNWD in the fall.
Minneapolis here we come! For those of you who are going to GA for the first time you will find it a smorgasbord of delights and stimulation. It is an amazing opportunity to hang out with thousands of UUs, put one's heads together on issues, laugh, cry, debate and converse ! For those of you who are staying put and reading the postings, you will be able to stream some of the major events on the UUA website sometime in the near future. Beth Brownfield Bellingham, WA
I'm excited to return to a city and friends that I love, and for the opportunity to attend General Assembly once again. My particular interest in GA this year is the Ware Lecture given by Winona La Duke, a personal friend of mine, who I worked with over many years. Winona is the first Native American to give the Ware Lecture. She delivers hard messages, but in a way where one is left empowered rather than defensive. Winona is a non-stop activist. Her mission in life is to protect the earth. She works mainly with tribal nations throughout North American, but also lectures extensively at conferences and symposiums.
Besides the Ware Lecture, Winona will be on a panel sponsored by the UU UN Office (Friday, June 25, 4:30 - 5:45). The title of the workshop is: "Global Blueprint for Cultural Survival: Indigenous Peoples' Rights". The workshop will focus on the United Nations Declaration of the Rights of Indigenous Peoples that is seen as a tool to ensure the survival of Native cultures worldwide. (This declaration was endorsed by over 140 countries, 11 abstained, and the U.S., Canada, New Zealand, and Australia all voted NO on it. Since then New Zealand, Australia and Canada have moved towards formal endorsement. The U.S. is now taking comments on the State Department's website and may revisit their decision later this summer.) In this same workshop Winona will especially emphasize how climate change is effecting Native Peoples.
I personally have a strong commitment to help build bridges between native and non native communities and have worked as a volunteer in this effort since the late 70s. At the Ware lecture Dave Weiman (Peoria UU Church) and I are launching an initiative to engage UU congregations nationwide in working with Native Peoples to repudiate the Doctrine of Discovery, and to endorse the UN Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples. Our flyer can be found on our website. It will be distributed by the ushers when they hand out the program for the evening.
Please visit our website for the details. Winona will speak about both the Doctrine of Discovery and the UN Declaration at both the UU UN workshop, and the Ware Lecture. The web address is: www.rd-ad.org. I'll be bringing this effort back to PNWD in the fall.
Minneapolis here we come! For those of you who are going to GA for the first time you will find it a smorgasbord of delights and stimulation. It is an amazing opportunity to hang out with thousands of UUs, put one's heads together on issues, laugh, cry, debate and converse ! For those of you who are staying put and reading the postings, you will be able to stream some of the major events on the UUA website sometime in the near future. Beth Brownfield Bellingham, WA
Tuesday, June 15, 2010
Ready for GA?
If you're attending General Assembly 2010 in Minneapolis -- NEXT WEEK!! -- then you are probably receiving the monthly updates from the GA office with the latest developments and hints for making the most of your GA experience. The June update arrived in my email inbox this afternoon, and brought advice on airport transportation, told me the first issue of the GA Banner (daily newsletter) is already available on-line, and told me there's still time to volunteer with the GA service project to support Hope Community. And, I got lots of links to more information on GA -- blogs, Facebook, Twitter, audio podcast... and much more.
If you didn't receive that little newsletter, you can check out the latest news at the official GA Blog (subscribe to that one, too, if you like) or the regular old GA website.
Here are two places to connect with PNWD at GA, when you arrive and before you leave:
Speaking of schedules, have you discovered the "My Schedule" feature at the GA website? It's searchable and easily browse-able, and you can create and print your own tailored program itinerary! Priceless.
Don't forget your congregation's banner! The Banner Parade during opening ceremonies on Wednesday night is quite a spectacle. If your congregation doesn't have a banner or banner pole, click HERE for information on how to make these.
So - what are YOU most looking forward to at GA? A particular workshop or speaker? A specific social witness event or study/action issue? A particular discussion or vote in Plenary? Let's hear about it - I'm ready to read someone else's words on this blog!
If you didn't receive that little newsletter, you can check out the latest news at the official GA Blog (subscribe to that one, too, if you like) or the regular old GA website.
Here are two places to connect with PNWD at GA, when you arrive and before you leave:
- Regional Ingathering, Wednesday 6/23, 6:45-7:30 PM, Convention Center 208 A-D. We'll be joining our Pacific Western neighbors this year!
- PNWD Leaders Discussion, Sunday 6/27, 1:00 - 2:00 PM, Hilton Marquette II. Debrief your GA experience with the PNWD Board - in particular, we'll focus on governance changes and proposals, and what that means to our district.
Speaking of schedules, have you discovered the "My Schedule" feature at the GA website? It's searchable and easily browse-able, and you can create and print your own tailored program itinerary! Priceless.
Don't forget your congregation's banner! The Banner Parade during opening ceremonies on Wednesday night is quite a spectacle. If your congregation doesn't have a banner or banner pole, click HERE for information on how to make these.
So - what are YOU most looking forward to at GA? A particular workshop or speaker? A specific social witness event or study/action issue? A particular discussion or vote in Plenary? Let's hear about it - I'm ready to read someone else's words on this blog!
Sunday, May 30, 2010
GA 2012 Relocation/ AZ Boycott
Hopefully, you've heard that the UUA Board of Trustees has voted to bring a resolution to GA delegates this year asking for direction to the GA Planning Committee to immediately re-locate our 2012 General Assembly currently scheduled for Phoenix, AZ. See the full text at Business Resolution on Phoenix General Assembly 2012.
This is not just a "feel good" action of solidarity - the resolution calls for member congregations to cover the cost of cancellation, which could exceed $600,000. In addition, the resolution also calls for a pledge "to generate an equal or greater amount to fund ongoing efforts to Stand on the Side of Love in Arizona." These are serious costs, over and above congregational pledges to UUA Annual Program Fund (APF).
Are we ready to put our money where our convictions are?
Interestingly, UU Religious Professionals in Arizona have issued a statement in opposition to the boycott and relocation of GA 2012. See their prespectives at the UUA Pacific Southwest district website. There is even a "Facebook" page collecting "fans" of this opposing view: Keep GA In Arizona 2012 (note that you may need to be a Facebook member to access that link). A summary argument is well made at the Rev. John Cullinan's blog, Returning - see "Why A General Assembly Boycott of Arizona Is Not an Option."
I've found valuable resources about this issue at the May 5 issue of UU World on-line, with plenty of links to related stories. In these weeks rolling up to GA 2010 in Minneapolis, I hope our congregational delegates will stay right on top of this discussion. The conversation and vote on this resolution might be one of the most intense and important at GA.
This is not just a "feel good" action of solidarity - the resolution calls for member congregations to cover the cost of cancellation, which could exceed $600,000. In addition, the resolution also calls for a pledge "to generate an equal or greater amount to fund ongoing efforts to Stand on the Side of Love in Arizona." These are serious costs, over and above congregational pledges to UUA Annual Program Fund (APF).
Are we ready to put our money where our convictions are?
Interestingly, UU Religious Professionals in Arizona have issued a statement in opposition to the boycott and relocation of GA 2012. See their prespectives at the UUA Pacific Southwest district website. There is even a "Facebook" page collecting "fans" of this opposing view: Keep GA In Arizona 2012 (note that you may need to be a Facebook member to access that link). A summary argument is well made at the Rev. John Cullinan's blog, Returning - see "Why A General Assembly Boycott of Arizona Is Not an Option."
I've found valuable resources about this issue at the May 5 issue of UU World on-line, with plenty of links to related stories. In these weeks rolling up to GA 2010 in Minneapolis, I hope our congregational delegates will stay right on top of this discussion. The conversation and vote on this resolution might be one of the most intense and important at GA.
Saturday, May 29, 2010
Get ready to blog GA 2010!
Ready for General Assembly 2010? This blog -- activated for GA 2009 in Salt Lake City -- is intended to be your companion, and a connection to UUs "back home."
Use this space to translate your experience into something useful for UU life back home. Did a presenter give you a helpful list of better practices? Did you come away with a big question to think about? Did you glean a book recommendation? Did a conversation or decision in Plenary blow you away?
Do tell! Inquiring UU minds want to know.
In these days leading up to GA 2010, we'll be posting bulletins about GA planning and issue developments, suggestions for workshops and events to attend, Q&A about GA logistics so first-timers can glean tips from experienced delegates and attendees.
We'll post a link on the home page of PNWD.org, so your congregation, colleagues, family and friends can keep up with the latest news. Signing up as a "follower" of this blog will trigger notification when a new post is available.
SEE YOU IN MINNEAPOLIS!
Use this space to translate your experience into something useful for UU life back home. Did a presenter give you a helpful list of better practices? Did you come away with a big question to think about? Did you glean a book recommendation? Did a conversation or decision in Plenary blow you away?
Do tell! Inquiring UU minds want to know.
In these days leading up to GA 2010, we'll be posting bulletins about GA planning and issue developments, suggestions for workshops and events to attend, Q&A about GA logistics so first-timers can glean tips from experienced delegates and attendees.
We'll post a link on the home page of PNWD.org, so your congregation, colleagues, family and friends can keep up with the latest news. Signing up as a "follower" of this blog will trigger notification when a new post is available.
SEE YOU IN MINNEAPOLIS!
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