Volume 1, No. 13                                                                                                       November 20, 2009

Hello, here is an ENews for the week.  If you have any interest in printing a copy of this please go to http://www.cedarlane.org/enarch09/en112009.pdf where it has been posted as a PDF.

This ENews has been bookmarked to allow fast access to sections.  To jump to the bookmarked sections please press control and click on the following to access these bookmarks.   Thanks, Sara sdeshler@cedarlane.org  

Sunday’s activities   From the Ministers   We Care   Music Notes   Education for all Ages    Upcoming Sundays   Pledge Drive Committee   Partner Church Committee   Planned Giving Committee   Around the Church    Social Justice Council   Beyond Cedar Lane    Calendar

November 22, 2009
“God Bless Everyone – No Exceptions!”
Rev. Susan Archer

The theme for this morning comes from one of my favorite bumper stickers.  It is the most dominant part of our Universalist heritage.  Despite so many recent and wonderful anti-oppression initiatives within our UU movement, I believe this is still one of our biggest challenges.  We will consider where we are moving, and where we are not.  We will look at both institutional challenges and personal ones.

10:10 Forum: Talk-back on the Morality of War. Express your opinion in an open Forum moderated by Marion Torchia on Dr. Paul Rasor’s Kiplinger Lecture, Saturday, November 21, on “When, If Ever, is the Use of Military Force Morally Justifiable?” Dr. Rasor will be on hand for the discussion.

Music Notes: We gather to celebrate the coming of Thanksgiving and the bounties we share.  This morning’s music is led by our youth ensembles.  Following the organ meditation the Youth Handbell Choir will ring two popular hymn tunes “For the Beauty of the Earth” and “Come, Ye Thankful People.”  In these arrangements we have the opportunity to hear the shimmering quality of the handbell choir as it approximates the sound of a vocal choir.  During the Call to Worship the Children’s Choir will sing about unity in Together as One.  The Youth Choir will sing a familiar and beloved three part canon, Alleluia, written by the Renaissance composer, William Boyce.  The Adult Choir steps into the contemporary arena with a new composition, My Spirit is Uncaged, from Paul Rardin, former Director of Choirs at Towson University.  The tenor of the work is spirited and upbeat, with the piano instilling an undercurrent of energy throughout.  The text comes from Walt Whitman’s memorable collection “Leaves of Grass.”

Welcome, Visitors to Cedar Lane. We invite you to stop by our Visitors Center in the Lounge service to say hello, find out more about Cedar Lane and Unitarian Universalism, sign up for our mailing list, and/or pick up pamphlets about our faith.

Bagels and Donuts Are Back! The You and UU (9^th grade) classes travel to Boston next March to learn about their UU roots. Support their pilgrimage by buying bagels and donuts.

IN THE LOUNGE ◊ Donuts and Bagels ◊ Environmental Task Force ◊ Holiday Craft Day ◊ Social Justice Council Lounge Lizards ◊ UU Book Store- Bea­con Press and Skinner House Books-Now with Gift Corner candles ◊ We serve fair trade coffee and tea ◊

Volunteers for the Service:
Greeters: 9 a.m.: Lesley and Eric Carlson                  11 a.m.: Al and Sarah Reese
Ushers:    9 a.m.: Michael Morse, Peter Salsbury, Mary Beth Nowinski, and Joanne Evans
            11 a.m. James Ogle, Nancy Janssen, Marilynn Smith, and Betsy Binckes
Coffee Servers: 10 a.m. Bonnie Tyler and Millie Mader            12 p.m. Lois Delaha
Audio: Rich Clark
Board Member at the Desk: noon Dusty Kreisberg
The flowers in the Sanctuary are given by Elizabeth and Michael Benefiel to celebrate the ordination of a new UU minister, Rebecca Benefiel Bijur at First Parish Church of Stow & Acton (Mass.) on November 21, 2009. The flowers were arranged by Lyn Peters. The flowers in the chapel were arranged by Lois Delaha.

Roger Fritts
The Unitarian Universalist minister Max Coots died last spring at the age of 81. He wrote a wonderful prayer comparing people to plants, mainly vegetables.  I invite you to consider using the prayer at your thanksgiving meal this year. And I invite you to consider which plant you are most like. 

Let us give thanks for a bounty of people.
For children who are our second planting, and though they grow like weeds and the wind too soon blows them away, may they forgive us our cultivation and fondly remember where their roots are.

Let us give thanks;
For generous friends…with hearts…and smiles as bright as their blossoms;
For feisty friends, as tart as apples;
For continuous friends, who, like scallions and cucumbers, keep reminding us that we’ve had them;
For crotchety friends, sour as rhubarb and as indestructible;
For handsome friends, who are as gorgeous as eggplants and as elegant as a row of corn, and the others, as plain as potatoes and so good for you;
For funny friends, who are as silly as Brussel sprouts and as amusing as Jerusalem artichokes;
And serious friends as unpretentious as cabbages, as subtle as summer squash, as persistent as parsley, as delightful as dill, as endless as zucchini and who, like parsnips, can be counted on to see you through the winter;
For old friends, nodding like sunflowers in the evening-time, and young friends coming on as fast as radishes;
For loving friends, who wind around us like tendrils and hold us, despite our blights, wilts and witherings;
And finally, for those friends now gone, like gardens past that have been harvested, but who fed us in their times that we might have life thereafter.

For all these we give thanks.    

Amen.

Susan Archer
Sometimes, maybe even often, I think that I have the best job one could ever want!  I get to spend time with groups of all ages and stages and hear their wonderings, affirmations, enthusiasms and commitments.  Last Sunday I had one such experience with a class of 6^th graders, to talk about Unitarian Universalism.  Forty minutes isn’t much time to cover such a vast topic, but “covering” isn’t what it’s about with this young UUs. I loved their vivaciousness (mostly!) and appreciated their amazing analyses and great questions about religion.  At this stage in development, young people love to think about really hard questions (like, if God created everything, like some people say, then who created God?  Since we can’t seem t answer that, does that mean there is no God?  What was here before the universe?  Why would God allow evil?  And more . . .) These are questions young and older people have been thinking about for eons.  Sixth graders are really fun to be with because they tend to really want to settle on “an” answer to each question they raise (not as a group, but as individuals); developmentally, that is how they begin to hang onto opinions so they gradually step into the next stages of critical thinking which involves being open to changing one’s mind and holding opposing thoughts at the same moment.  It is a very exciting time of life.  I am glad I got to be with them and hear what they are thinking!

There is so much growing going on within this place called Cedar Lane.  In adult programs, social justice, worship . . . every group of children and adults.  I am blessed to be part of it.  At this time of Thanksgiving, I can’t help but think of the beginning words of one of my favorite hymns: “For all that is our life, we sing our thanks and praise; for all life is a gift which we are called to use, to build the common good.”

Happy Thanksgiving and much love to all of you, Susan. 

We Care: A Ministry of Community Support
The We Care program is a network led by volunteers who reach out to address short-term needs – food deliveries, rides to doctor’s appointments, a listening ear in the event of a loss. The Cedar Lane congregation is organized geographically by “neighborhoods”; each neighborhood has at least one chairperson to coordinate support. Look at your nametag or the map in the church office to find your neighborhood. 

We celebrate with Frank and Sharon Adler (N10) with the birth of their new grandchild, Leah Rose Irwin, born on October 22 in Winston-Salem, NC. 

It is with sadness that we share the news that long-time Cedar Lane member Frances Willoughby (N8) is critically ill and not expected to recover. We will keep the community updated as we learn more from her family. 

We rejoice with Jerri and Cal Perkins (N21), with the birth of their granddaughter, Katilyhn, born on November 18. 

Healing wishes are with Natalia Dunn, 2^nd grade daughter of Catherine and John Dunn (N11), who broke her leg. If you see her at church, wish her well! 

Should you know of a member of our community in personal need, you are encouraged to reach out to them. If you learn that this person wishes to receive a response from the church, please contact Heather Janules at x204 or hjanules@cedarlane.org. All ministers offer pastoral care to our members so you are also encouraged to contact any member of the ministerial team.

Concerts at Cedar Lane
Wow!  Steve Jones and his trio were a fabulous hit as they brought Cedar Lane alive with vintage sounds like “Route 66,” and Dave Brubeck’s “Take Five.”  Steve welcomed his brother, Peter, to sing their duet made famous in Europe, “Kilkelly, Ireland.”  Elise Bryant, director of Steve’s opera “Forgotten, The Murder at Ford Rouge Plant,” also made a cameo appearance singing the Doobie Brothers’ “Takin’ it to the Streets.”   

Concerts at Cedar Lane is gearing up for its benefit concert on January 16, 2010; an all Mozart program with orchestra, the Adult Choir, and special guest, Barbara Wing, performing Mozart’s Piano Concerto in A Major.  The performance is free and all donations will be gifted to John Kelly’s Children’s Hospital Campaign.  To learn more visit CedarLane.org and click on Concerts at Cedar Lane.

Ad Hoc Choir
The Choir will meet on Sunday, November 29 at 12:30 in the Chapel.  We’ll sing a few of the hymns that will occur during the December worship services.  Don’t worry about the sound of your voice.  Just come and enjoy the company and music of those around you.  Hope to see you there!

November 29- Gruppo Piccolo will make its first appearance of the year.  During this first Sunday of Advent the ensemble will sing Palestrina’s motet Alma Redemptoris Mater and, for a total change of pace, I Sing the Body Electric from the musical “Fame.” Hymns will include “For All That is Our Life” and ”Just as Long as I Have Breath.”

December 6 -  Kenneth Kreider and Aglaia Koras will perform the music of George Gershwin during the Prelude and Offertory.  The Adult Choir will sing Advent Message by Martin How and I Hear the Prophet Callin’.  The Congregation will sing “People Look East” and “Let Christmas Come.”

December 13 - The Intergenerational Handbell Choir will unveil a new set of instruments called “choir chimes.”  The chimes, which look like enormous tuning forks, produce a quiet, shimmering tone that carries throughout the Sanctuary.  The choir will ring Shalom Chavarim on the chimes to acknowledge the beginning of Hanukkah.  The choir will ring Advent Carol (Veni Emmanuel) during Call to Worship.  The Adult Choir will sing Watchman, Tell Us of the Night as the Anthem.  Hymns will include “O Come, O Come Emmanuel” and “Light One Candle.” 

Christmas Eve - sounds of harp and violin will permeate the air as The Adult Choir sings selections from Benjamin Britten’s hallmark composition, “A Ceremony of Carols.”  If you are a singer who particularly enjoys singing sounds of the season, contact Henry Sgrecci at hsgrecci@cedarlane.org and arrange to sing with the Choir on Christmas Eve.

Religious Education Notes

Holiday Craft Day
Saturday, December 5, 10 a.m.–2:30 p.m.  
Most beloved of all RE events!  People of all ages gather to make cookies, wreaths, and other favorites as well as try their hand at new crafts.  The emphasis is on having fun while creating gifts for those we care about.  Pre-registration is required. Cost: $10/person; $20/family. Some crafts require an additional materials fee and/or advance sign-up on the day of the event.  We strongly encourage early registration for this event!

All-Church Holiday Potluck
Whether or not you have children, please join us for a real taste of holiday cheer. Enjoy a short performance by our young ones (grades 1-7), “The Grinch Who Came to UUville,” and then stay for a great potluck!  Bring a dish to share, to serve 10–12 people, please drop it off in kitchen before the program. Cedar Lane will provide bread, salad, beverages and some entrees. Sign up by December 9, through the RE office 301-493-8300, x 207.  Last names A-K: salad or side dish; L-S: main dish (vegetarian dishes welcome); T-Z: dessert.  Play begins at 5 p.m., dinner at 5:45 p.m.

Family Calendar
December:

              5 (Sat.)10 a.m. –2:30 p.m.: Holiday Craft Day

              6 (Sun.)10 and noon: Chapel: St. Lucia’s Day by Grade 3

            12 (Sat.) 5–7 p.m.: Play, “The Grinch Who Came to UUville” and All-Church Potluck

            20 (Sun.) 9 and 11 a.m.: Intergenerational beginning in sanctuary; Haunting House children process;

                                    Last RE classes before break.

            24 (Thu.) Christmas Eve Services:

4:30 p.m.: Especially good for families with young children; about 45 minutes; no child
care available

6:00 p.m.: Especially good for families with children; about 60 minutes; includes candle-lighting for new children born or adopted; no child care available

10:30 p.m.: Especially good for adults and teens; about 90 minutes; no child care available

            27 (Sun.) 10:00 a.m.: One service only; no RE; no childcare.

The Magic of Short Films
The post-Thanksgiving Sunday Morning Forum offers two heart-warming short films about universal values, honesty and passing treasure to the next generation.  “The Face,” (23 minutes) is based on the Zen story, The Magic Seed. “The Letter Writer” (11 minutes) may intrigue you with how to send your compassion and encouragement over the miles, using ink, “on paper.”  POPCORN will be served. Sunday, November 29,  between services from 10:10 to 10:55 a.m. in the Chalice House.  Everyone is invited.

Family Triads
Family Triads were assigned in October.  However, if you missed the deadline, you may still send in your forms to the RE office.  We can’t guarantee that all will be assigned, but we will make new triads as we have enough families. 

Youth Notes

Youth Activity Group Youth Activity Group (7th & 8th Grades)—Busy December
   We have had an active year so far and a busy December is coming up. Friday, December 11, is our next event to enjoy pizza/movie either at the church or we’ll go to the mall, eat in the food court, and see a movie.  If you know of a good movie soon to be released or a couple of good DVDs, give John a call with your recommendations.  Christmas is not far away and our Group members have again been asked to be ushers for the two Christmas Eve afternoon family services.  Our next date for Manna Food Packing is Tuesday, December 29.  Notices about these activities will be coming soon.
   The Youth Activity Group is open to 7th and 8th graders at Cedar Lane. If you have any questions about the Group or its activities, contact Susan Archer, John Daniel (301-946-5509) or Kim Clarkson (301-587-3051). 

Senior High Youth Group (SHYG)
For information on the Senior High Youth Group (grades 9-12) contact Archene Turner at 301-493-8300 x205, aturner@cedarlane.org or archene@gmail.com.

Details of activities and permission forms are on our website at www.cedarlane.org.

Upcoming Events:

December   6  Hang Out Time
      13   No SHAG – next meeting Jan. 10
      20  Christmas Lights at Brookside Gardens*
*Permission and Contract forms required.

 Young Adults (Ages 18-35)

    The UU Young Adults of Maryland (UUYAM) group plans activities for local UU Young Adults. Visit
http://groups.google.com/group/uuyam to join the UUYAM e-mail list and view schedule of upcoming events. For resources and information on Joseph Priestly District (JPD) Young Adult events, visit the JPD Young Adult Network at www.jpduuyan.org.
   Join other Young Adults for Brunch: Meet in the vestibule at the back of the sanctuary 15 minutes after the end of the 11 a.m. service. We will car pool to a local restaurant for lunch or brunch and fellowship.

Adult Programs Notes

While most of our fall Adult Program courses are finishing up before the holidays, there are two great classes coming up in January.

On Monday, January 4, “Intro to Facebook and YouTube” can help you understand the craze in social networking and information sharing on the web.  One session, 7:30 to 9:30 p.m. Pledgers $5/non-pledgers $10.

“Raising UU Kids: Parents as Resident Theologians and Spiritual Guides” with the Rev. Susan Davison Archer, will be held two Saturdays; January 23 and 30, from 9:30 to 11:00 a.m.  We will look at how children grow and what makes them feel connected to a large reality, and discussion on how to respond to questions about God, death, Jesus, ethics, and more. Adults $2. Childcare is available with one weeks notice; $5/session.

To register for Adult Programs: complete a registration card, write a check for any fees, and mail or bring them to the church c/o the RE office.  A full description of classes is in the Adult Programs Fall 2009 brochure.  The brochure and registration cards are available at the church and on the website at www.cedarlane.org.
 

Sunday Morning Forum
The Sunday Morning Forum meets between services from 10:10 to 10:55 a.m. in the Chalice House.  Everyone is invited.
   November 29:  The Magic of Short Films This post-Thanksgiving forum offers two heart-warming, short films about universal values, honesty and passing treasure to the next generation.  “The Face,” (23 minutes) is based on the Zen story, The Magic Seed. “The Letter Writer” (11 minutes) may intrigue you with how to send your compassion and encouragement over the miles, using ink, “on paper.”  POPCORN will be served.
   December 6:  USAID to International Public Health: Provision of Essential Medicines for Developing Countries with Erika A. Ronnow, Senior Research and Evaluation Advisor, USAID Funded Project.
   December 13: The first presidential impeachment, Andrew Johnson in 1868, threatened to become a second Civil War as Americans argued bitterly over the meaning of the war and the end of slavery. With soaring rhetoric, political horse trading, and cold cash, Johnson escaped removal from office by a single vote in the Senate.  Cedar Lane’s David O. Stewart will share the story of this constitutional train wreck from his new book, Impeached: The Trial of President Andrew Johnson and the Fight for Lincoln's Legacy.  Copies will be for sale and David will sign them.

November 29, 2009
“Sometimes it is Enough to Notice One Another”
Rev. Heather Janules

Drawing from a tradition begun by another UU minister and words from Robert Fulghum and Mary Oliver, three generations of Cedar Laners will respond to Oliver’s question: “What is it you plan to do with your one wild and precious life?”

November 29 Forum: The Magic of Short Films. This post-Thanksgiving forum offers two heart-warming short films about universal values, honesty, and passing treasure to the next generation.  The Face (23 mins.) is based on the Zen story, The Magic Seed. The Letter Writer (11 mins.) may intrigue you with how to send your compassion and encouragement over the miles, using ink, on paper! POPCORN will be served.

December 6, 2009
“What Would Jesus Buy?”
Rev. Roger Fritts

The sermon title is taken from a 2007 movie.  The sermon will explore the joys and the limits of shopping.  Can gift giving be a spiritual experience?

December 6 Forum: USAID to International Public Health: Provision of Essential Medicines for Developing Countries with Erika A. Ronnow, Senior Research and Evaluation Advisor, USAID Funded Project.

Why I pledge………………………Ardene Shafer

The simple answer is that I want to.  I was raised in an extremely fundamentalist, right wing religious home and while I did not end up believing the tenets of my early religious life, I did learn some important lessons about generosity.  My parents never made a lot of money but they were very generous with the little they had.  My father tithed at an astonishing 10% of his income and gave to other causes as well.  We never heard lectures about being generous or giving to the church. My parents just simply demonstrated their generosity in their everyday life.  They both volunteered for various causes and also at the church and they gave their money to supplement their volunteer time. That’s how I feel about Cedar Lane. I don’t feel it is my obligation or duty to give to Cedar Lane; it is my privilege and a true expression of my spiritual life. I give because I want to.

Do you have a pledge story you would like to share?  Please send it to me at srs.ars@gmail.com and I will be responsible for submitting it to the newsletter.

Partner Church Committee News – Travel to India Opportunity with Fairfax UU Congregation

Did you know that that other area UU churches have partnerships not only in Transylvania (the “roots” of the Unitarian tradition) but also sponsor partnerships and provide other sources of support for UU communities around the globe (the “wings” of the UU faith)?  For example, there are small but well-established and growing UU communities in India, the Philippines, and now even in Africa.     

Are you interested in traveling to India with fellow UUs from the area?  The Fairfax UU Congregation is planning a trip to visit their partner church community in Puriang, located in the Kashi Hill region of northeastern India in early February.  If you are interested in exploring India and the Kashi Hills (and possibly learning about additional partnership opportunities), contact Dick Van Duizend soon at van1000@rcn.com or 703-536-3476 (trip plans are being made final).

Endowment Month

It is again the time of the year that we ask you to support the Endowment Funds of our church. The original Cedar Lane Endowment Fund was formally established in 1983 and it has been as successful as the original planners had hoped. Since 2000 the church has been able to use income generated by this fund to pay for a variety of capital and other long range projects.

Two additional endowment funds have been established. The Memory Fund began in 1999 and is already generating funds to help maintain our beautiful gardens and property.  The Social Justice Endowment Fund, which was established in 2007, will eventually help support social justice actions undertaken by the congregation. 

There are two ways to offer your support. The first is by writing a check or donating stock today to one or more of the funds. The other is to establish a legacy by including the Cedar Lane Endowment funds in your will. Most of the largest contributions we have received came to us as bequests and they will have a positive impact on Cedar Lane for generations to come. This is an easy process so don’t delay. Please contact me or see our website (cedarlane.org) for additional information.

When making a donation please indicate which of the three funds should be the beneficiary of the money. Thank you for your generosity. 

Jay Schneider

Chair of the Planned Giving Committee

Donations Wanted for R.E. Class Sunday
This Sunday Nov. 22 the Haunting House class will be making small Care Packages to take to a homeless center for distribution to people who are homeless or in need.  We need small toiletries (shampoo, soap, razors, toothpaste, etc.), socks or gloves, and small individual snacks.  If members of the congregation have items they would like to donate they could bring them to our room Sunday morning or perhaps leave them with the RE administrator Saturday.

THANKSGIVING Food Drive
Please bring food items in a recycled material bag to be collected at the beginning of the intergenerational services in the sanctuary November 22 at 9 and 11 a.m. Please bring food items based on your last name as outlined below. Please choose low-sodium, whole wheat, low-sugar, and organic products whenever possible. Your contributions will be added to food from other UU congregations collected by All Souls Church, Unitarian. Your contributions are a tangible way to help seven different organizations in Columbia Heights. The Senior High Youth Group will be assisting in this year’s food drive.

Last Name                 Food Items

A and B                       Grits, Maseca, cornmeal, Bisquick, canned soup, canned fruits, vegetables and beans

C, D, and E                 Fresh onions, celery, carrots, apples, oranges, and potatoes

F, G, and H                 Canned fruits, vegetables and beans, canned soups, dried pasta and pasta sauces

I, J, K and L               Cranberry sauce, stuffing mix, rice, beans, and cookies

M, N, and O               Fresh onions, celery, carrots, apples, oranges, and potatoes

P, Q, and R                 Grits, Maseca, cornmeal, Bisquick, dried pasta, and pasta sauces

S, T, and U                 Peanut butter, stuffing mix, cranberry sauce, canned soups, cookies

V, W, X, Y,                  Cookies, hot chocolate, teas, coffee

and Z

Congregational Discussion on Cell Tower
The second, and last, congregational discussion on the proposed CLUUC cell phone tower will be held after the second service this Sunday, November 22.  It will start at 12:15 and last about one and a half hours.

This is your chance to ask questions and voice your opinions on the cell tower issue.  The Board of Trustees will use your questions and comments to help gauge the sentiment of the congregation on the issue.

The discussion will start with some pictures and diagrams of the church grounds and neighborhood showing the location and appearance of the proposed cell tower.  These will be followed by discussions of the impact of a tower on the church grounds, of the financial issue, and of the health issue.  The meeting will be moderated by Debbie Goodwin. The questions and comments will be fielded by members of the cell tower study group.

If you cannot attend this meeting you can send your comments to the study group by e-mail at celltower@cedarlane.org.  They will be posted on the study group’s page in the church website.

CELL TOWER APPROVAL/DISAPPROVAL PROCESS

After the congregational discussion on Nov. 22, the church’s nearest neighbors will be informed of the cell tower proposal.  We will handle their responses in the best neighborly way and inform the Board of Trustees of their sentiments.  In its December meeting the Board will entertain a motion to approve continuing the cell tower process.  The Board will vote according to its perception of the sentiments of the congregation and the neighbors.  If the Board does not approve the motion, the cell tower process is terminated.  If it approves the motion, a date will be set, presumably in January, for a congregational meeting to vote on whether or not the congregation wants the cell tower process to continue.  A ‘no’ vote terminates the process.  A ‘yes’ vote means we start contract negotiations with the carrier.  After a contract is agreed upon it will be returned to the Board of Trustees for final approval.

Again, attend Sunday’s meeting and e-mail us at celltower@cedarlane.org.

At Cedar Lane Unitarian Universalist Church
Saturday, December 5, 2009
10:00 a.m. – 2:30 p.m.

Activities: This family-friendly event is for all ages and abilities. Spend a day with family and friends making great homemade holiday crafts that can be used in your own home or given as gifts. At noon, everyone takes a break for holiday music and refreshments.

Cost: The fee covers the cost of refreshments, the majority of crafts, and priceless fun with the family making wreaths, cookies, candles, gingerbread houses, and much more!
·        $10 per person or
·        $20 per family

·        For a few “special crafts,” an extra $3 ticket is required and can be bought the day of the event.

Registration: Pre-registration is required and can be done in the R.E. office or in the Lounge after services on:
·        Sunday November 22

Insider Hints:
·        Come on time on Dec. 5 – slots for the most popular crafts fill up first
·        Bring dollar bills to buy some “special craft” tickets on the day of the event,
       $3 per ticket
·        Pack a picnic and a blanket to sit on during the music performance at noon
·        Don’t forget a box or large bag to take your treasures home

Wanted: Evergreen Clippings: We could use more evergreen clippings for the wreaths. Please bring them outside the lower level door now. On Holiday Craft Day, bring them upstairs, just outside the lounge. Thanks!

Information: Feel free to contact us with questions or if you want to be a Craft Day helper

·        Chris Black at christineireneblack@hotmail.com or 301-774-0518

·        Celia Nathan at celia_nathan@yahoo.com or 301-326-5886

Beacon House Gifts for Children and Youth: Bring new and unwrapped gifts to church to share with children and teens at Beacon House.  These are kids who will likely not receive much else during the holidays.  It is great to involve your young ones in this process.  Donations of gift wrap are also welcome.  There will be donation sites on Sundays both upstairs by the front door and downstairs in the Administration area.

Grieving a Loved One Through the Holidays
At their best, the winter holidays are joyous times with family and other companions. However, the death of a loved one can make the holiday season a difficult time of grief and renewed sadness.

On December 13 AND 20 at 12:30 pm in the Chapel, there will be a gathering of those who wish to share their thoughts and feelings about the people they miss this holiday season.

Perhaps the death was recent. Perhaps the loss happened long ago. Whomever you miss this December, you are invited to remember them in community. This gathering is not group therapy but a time to merely share what comes up for us in this season of festivities and to listen to one another’s experiences. All are welcome. The gathering will be facilitated by Heather Janules, the Minister for Pastoral Care. Each gathering is a stand-alone event so you may attend either one or both. If you have any questions or concerns or if you plan to attend, please contact Heather at x204 or hjanules@cedarlane.org.

December 20, 5 p.m.
Winter Solstice Vespers Service

Members of the Journeywomen and Living By Heart II Connection Circles.
Carol Ireland, Harpsichord
Margaret Turner, Alto and Tenor Recorders
The winter solstice marks the longest night of the year and the start of the lengthening days. Come join a vespers celebration with music, accompanied by readings of the mystery of darkness and the joy of light. Following the service, seasonal refreshments will be served. (no dinner). Optional donations for Beacon House will be accepted – hats, scarves, mittens, unwrapped toys, or cash.

Gifts of Warmth

Bring new sweaters, coats, hats, gloves, socks or scarves to put near our tree at the intergenerational beginning of the worship service on December 20.  These will also go to kids and teens through Beacon House.

Lighting Candles for New Babies on Christmas Eve
Once again we will be lighting candles for children or grandchildren of members and attenders of our congregation.  This will take place during the 6:00 p.m. service only.  Please let us know of children born or adopted since December 25, 2008.  Call the church (301-493-8300) and leave the information with the receptionist or RE Office (x207).  Please provide: the child’s full name, date of birth and/or adoption, and the name(s) of parents, grandparents (if they are Cedar Laners) and siblings.

Labyrinth Silent Retreat
The Labyrinth Committee’s annual Silent Retreat will take place this year from 7 p.m. on Friday, January 8, 2010 to 6 p.m. January 9, at the church.  We will begin with an ingathering ceremony and end with reflections and refreshments.  In between we will walk our labyrinth, read, write, meditate, take walks, do whatever the spirit moves us to do. Some participants fast, some bring their own food.  Some bring a sleeping bag, others go home to sleep and return in the morning. The Reverend Heather Janules will lead the ceremonies and be available during the rest of the time.  It’s wonderful (for those who like this sort of thing!) so please consider joining us. $15 for members; $20 for non-members. Call Miriam Pemberton, 301-495-3429 with questions.

A photo exhibit of Al Nakba (The Catastrophe) is being displayed during November in the outer foyer of the church.  The exhibit is a story of the Palestinians, 1948 to 2009, produced by Friends of Sabeel Canada.

Drivers and volunteers needed for Annual Thanksgiving Food Drive, Sunday, Nov. 22
Join Cedar Lane's youth group bringing the food collected at Cedar Lane on Sunday, Nov. 22 to All Souls Church and stay to help sort it , etc.  This is a great meaningful one-time activity!  We'll gather after each service.  ?s: nancyjanssen@peoplepc.com (301.588.1488). 

50/50 Collection for Housing Unlimited, Inc.  (HUI) – November 22
            The Social Justice Council received a very impressive presentation from HUI, a local nonprofit organization which is celebrating its15th year of operation.  HUI‘s mission is to provide independent housing and community integration for very low income adults with psychiatric disabilities in Montgomery County. The focus of HUI is to promote the self-sufficiency and independence of its tenants and to remove the stigma often associated with their illness.
            HUI’s facilities are located in all parts of the County and currently serve 123 persons in 41 apartments, townhouses, and single-family homes.  All the units are convenient to public transportation, retail shops, and employment.  Despite the tough economy, HUI acquired five new homes this year.  They currently have a waiting list of over 250 individuals who wish to participate in their programs.  Please give generously.

CEDAR LANE WORK TRIP TO NEW ORLEANS, JAN 30-FEB 5 – Learn more THIS SUNDAY, Nov 22 at 12:30 in the Chapel.
Come join Cedar Laners and Rebuilding Together – Montgomery County in a work trip in New Orleans. All skill levels welcome and needed! This year’s trip will include worship at First Unitarian Church of New Orleans, a self-guided tour plus guided conversations about the impact of race and class on life and the recovery in New Orleans. Travel grants are available to help off-set the costs of transportation, room and board. To learn more, attend an information session on Sunday, Nov 22^nd at 12:30 in the Chapel, led by Mike Burski, a member of the Social Justice Council and a multi-year veteran of Rebuilding Together work trips. Contact Mike (mga1960@earthlink.net) or Heather Janules (hjanules@cedarlane.org) with questions. If you cannot attend due to the Cell Tower discussion but are interested and want more information, please contact Mike and/or Heather.

UUA Focus on Ethical Eating
The Ethical Eating Study Group is underway, but new members are always welcome.  Our goals are to study the issues, share what we learn, and act on this information. 

The Study Group was formed partly due to the urging of the UUA but also due to our own interests in exploring the far reaching effects of our food choices.  Each of us defines “ethical eating” a little differently.  What does it mean to you?  Join us at our next meetings on December 3, 10 and 17 at 7:30 p.m.  For information contact Donna Runyan, 301-493-8463, jndrunyan@msn.com.

Free Movie:  “Food, Inc.”
The Environmental Task Force will show the movie “Food, Inc.” in the Sanctuary on Friday evening, December 11.  This thought provoking documentary deconstructs the corporate food industry in America.  Alex Beauchamp from Food and Water Watch will introduce the film and answer questions afterwards.  Come at 6:45 p.m. for a vegetarian potluck.  Bring food to share.  The movie begins at 7:30 p.m.  RSVP to Charlotte Brewer (301-656-0467, jarvischarlot@aol.com) so we know how many to expect.  We need people to wash dishes after the movie.  Please let Charlotte know if you can help.

Are you working on a social justice issue? Would you like to? Share your passion and invite others to join you at
Cedar Lane’s Social Justice Fair
Sunday, Jan 10, 2010

The Social Justice Council (SJC) will flood the lounge with justice after both services on Sunday, January 10. Help us create ways for Cedar Laners to make a better world.

Cedar Laners will be invited to commit to a certain number of hours of social justice work between January and March. (We don’t want to discourage activity before and after that, of course, just want to concentrate our efforts to build momentum as 2010 begins!) We hope to provide lots of inspiring opportunities. You can help by setting up a table with:
· Information about an issue you are working on or care about
· A range of ways people can get involved including any or all of the following:

·     A one-time event you or your group organizes at a specific time/place
·     Things people can do on their own time
·     Activities for families with young children (this is particularly important!)
·     Service learning opportunities for high school students (this too!)
·     An invitation to come to your group’s next meeting, or join you to start a new group
·     Service (stream clean ups, nursing home visits…), advocacy (letter writing, lobbying…), organizing (door knocking, phone calling…), and/or fundraising activities
·     Any other creative ideas you have!

You can reserve table space by stopping by the Social Justice Council table in the lounge or emailing to betsy@devlin-foltz.com Non-profit organizations not (yet!) active at Cedar Lane are welcome. (We ask that outside organizations have a Cedar Lane “sponsor” i.e. someone who thinks it’s a good idea and can serve as a point of contact.)

GREEN TIPS
Environmental Task Force

Buy locally grown products!  Whether you are purchasing food, plants, or building materials, this practice reduces the amount of energy used by transporting products long distances.  Visit Maryland’s Best, a Maryland Department of Agriculture web site, for a statewide listing of sources for locally grown products.

from Councilwoman Nancy Floreen

Click on this link for an extensive list of green products recommended by Mother Jones Magazine:
http://motherjones.greenhome.com/products/yard_and_garden/compost_bins/

Palestinian Embroidery Pre-Holiday Sale TONIGHT and TOMORROW
Friday, November 20 (5 - 8 p.m.) and Saturday November 21 (10 a.m. - 2 p.m.)
Westmoreland Congregational United Church of Christ at 1 Westmoreland Circle in Bethesda, is holding a sale of beautiful embroidery from Palestinian refugee camps in Gaza, the West Bank, Jordan, Lebanon and Syria. Gift items include handbags, shawls, table runners, cases for jewelry, eyeglasses and cell phones, and much more.

Community Quilt Show at Green Acres School: 25 Years of Traditional & Art Quilts
On Saturday, November 21 from 10 a.m. – 6 p.m. and Sunday, November 22 from 11 a.m. – 4 p.m., an extensive collection of community quilts will be on display at Green Acres School in Rockville, MD.  The Quilt Show was organized in honor of the school's 75th anniversary and in memory of Ginny Spevak --the teacher who established the tradition of quilting at Green Acres. For additional information about this event and/or for directions to the school, visit www.greenacres.org.

A Dialogue on Race and Ethnicity TOMORROW
UUSJ and ADORE Joint Program at UUCR, Sat., November 21, 8:30 a.m.—1 p.m.  UU Church of Rockville 100 Welsh Park Dr. Rockville, MD 20850
            Plan to attend this free program. A Dialogue on Race and Ethnicity presents David Slavin, speaking on “Inequality, White Privilege, and Social Control in the US:  a historical perspective.” There will be  a follow-up workshop with David Slavin and workshops showcasing regional social justice award winners on Don’t Ask/Don’t Tell and Accompaniers in Guatemala and a workshop on Reaching Out to Become a Public Congregation based on the UU article by Michael Durrall. Contact UUSJ at 301-588-1951 or info@uusj.org.

CLUUC Choir Will Participate in a program of music, theater, and a plea for a just peace between Israelis and Palestinians

Sunday, December 6, 2 p.m. – 6 p.m.
The Sixth and I Historic Synagogue

Refreshments will follow the program. Advanced ticket sales $15, at the door  $18, Seniors and Under-25 $10. Order tickets from www.yesmep.org . Sponsored by Yes We Can: Middle East Peace

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Cedar Lane Unitarian Universalist Church
9601 Cedar Lane, Bethesda, Maryland 20814-4099
Tel: 301-493-8300    Fax: 301-897-5713
e-mail: office@CedarLane.org
Sunday Services at 9 and 11 a.m.
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