Volume 1, No. 18                                                                                                        December 23, 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/en122309.htm where it has been posted as a web page.

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. 

Christmas Eve Services   Sunday’s activities   From the Ministers   We Care   Music Notes   Education for all Ages    Upcoming Sundays   Around the Church    Social Justice Council   Beyond Cedar Lane    Calendar

4:30 pm We enter the church in daylight and leave in darkness after the sunlight is gone. A 45-minute service, ideal for young children and everyone who loves to feel the excitement of Christmas in young children. Our Youth and Handbell Choirs will provide music for the service.

6:00 pm An hour service for older children and adults. We will light candles for children born or adopted this year. Our Youth and Handbell Choirs will provide music for the service.

10:30 pm Our adult choir practices for this service until 10:15 and you cannot enter our worship space to find a seat until they finish. But it is worth the wait! The Adult Choir, will present Benjamin Britten’s “Ceremony of Carols” and prelude music with harp, violin, handbells, and organ. We will sing carols with organ and harp accompaniment, have short readings, a short sermon and light candles.

50/50 Offering – A Wider Circle
Our Christmas offering this year will be shared with A Wider Circle in Bethesda.  AWC receives 250 calls each day.  As of December this year they have furnished the homes of 7,412 children and adults.  AWC also offers a Life Skills adult education program including: Nutrition, Stress Management, Resume Writing, Interviewing Skills, and Money Management.  The Catalogue of Philanthropy named AWC “one of the region’s finest small charities.”  Members of Cedar Lane are active volunteers at AWC.  Please give generously.

December 27, 2009
“Before and After”

Rev. Heather Janules and Susan Clark

Life is a series of transitions, shaped by one grand transition- birth to death.  As we pause on the threshold of the transition from one year to the next, this service will reflect on the many symbols of change in human life and how we can serve as “bridge people,” companioning one another from the places of “before” and “after.”

Music Notes: For this service we are grateful for the wonderful array of music that is being presented by several different ensembles.  Good King Wenceslas, as performed by the Youth Handbell Choir, offers a jazzy, rhythmic treatment of a classic Christmas carol (keep your ears perked for the drum beat in the middle of the song).  Our Children’s Choir sings in collaboration with guest cellist, Amanda Rees, to give us a reflective setting of the spiritual This Little Light of Mine.  During the Call to Worship the Youth Choir introduces a new Swahili Christmas song,  Habari Nzuri, which translates to “Good News!”  During the Offertory the Children’s Choir sings a rock-like setting of the birth of Jesus called Born, Born in Bethlehem, and the Youth Choir sings one of their all time favorites, Carol of the Bells.  Up in the loft the Adult Choir delivers a  jazz/Gospel infused interpretation of the spiritual Go Tell it On the Mountain, with solos from Susan Clark, Donna Simonton, and the entire bass section.  Thomas Guthrie’s organ postlude is based upon the familiar melody “Waltham,” which we know as I Heard the Bells on Christmas Day.

Special thanks to Miss Amanda Rees, her cello, and the wonderful contributions she has made to our Children’s and Youth ensembles this morning.

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 will be back on January 10!

IN THE LOUNGE ◊ Alliance Books ◊ Alternative Giving ◊ Environmental Task Force ◊ Social Justice Council Lounge Lizards ◊ UU Book Store- Bea­con Press and Skinner House Books-Now with Gift Corner candles ◊ We serve fair trade coffee, hot chocolate, and tea ◊

Volunteers for the Service:
Greeters: Al and Sarah Reese              
Ushers:    Joanne Evans, Mary Beth Nowinski, Marilynn Smith, and John Daniel
Coffee Server: Millie Mader
Audio: Bob Pechacek
Board Member at the Desk: Karen Lerner
The decorations were arranged by the Flower Committee.

Roger Fritts
As the sunset over the church grounds on the evening of December 23, we are ready for Christmas Eve services tomorrow. The parking lots and the paths have been cleared of snow. The candles are ready. The orders of service are being printed. The choirs have rehearsed. The weather forecasters say the next storm will not reach us until 9:00 A.M. Christmas morning. All that is missing is you. So do plan to join us at one or more of our services at 4:30 6:00 and 10:30 PM. 

Let us gather at church in candle light to say some words to the close and holy darkness.  Then we will head home to nestle all snug in our beds.

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.

It is with sadness that we announce the death of Dr. Cal Perkins (Neighborhood 21) who died on Dec. 19^th from a lung infection. A Service in Celebration of His Life will be held on Tuesday, Jan 5^th at 12:00 noon at Cedar Lane. Our condolences are with his wife Jerry and their family.

Healing wishes are with Pat Wigginton (N7) as she undergoes surgery to treat ovarian cancer on the morning of Christmas Eve.

Our hearts go out to Margy Wright (N16) as she mourns the death of her brother Pat, who died after a long decline.

Our best wishes are also with John Massey (N12) who, after a brief stay at Holy Cross Hospital, has transferred to Genesis Rehab on Bel Pre Road in Aspen Hill. 

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 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 - Start the new year out with a sing-for-all.  Everyone is invited because we love to hear your voices!  The next gathering will be on Sunday, January 10 at 12:30 in the Chapel.  Hope to see you there!

Religious Education Notes

NO RE CLASSES on December 27.  Regular classes resume on January 3.

How will I know if RE is cancelled?
            In an emergency, if there will be no RE classes, members of the RE Council will contact teachers, teen assistants and room parents.  Room parents will call all families on their class list.  We know this means that some families will get multiple calls.  Please be patient!  If there is no power in the Cedar Lane buildings, we will cancel classes because of safety concerns.  There may still be an informal church service for those who happen to come anyway.  If you think there might be class cancellation, you can call the church office.  If there is no answer, the power is out and you can assume there are no RE classes.  We also will attempt to put information on the answer message and on the website.  Power issues could prevent that.  In the meantime, stay home, safe and warm, and make pancakes! 

Burning Wishes
            Children in Grades K-6 will be invited to add their "burning wishes" to our fire at Luke's Circle (by the playground) during our first Sunday of the new year, January 3.  Classes will be invited to bring paper on which they have drawn or written their burning wishes for the world in the year to come.  There will be a schedule so that groups will not all arrive at the same time.  Susan and others will be there to tend the fire and to lead a ceremony.   If there is too much wind or it's too wet for a fire, we will postpone this activity.  No separate chapel is planned for that day.

Teacher Renewal
            Teacher Renewal will be held Sunday, January 10, 4-7 p.m., for all teachers, assistants, and youth group leaders.  There will be a special program “The Power of Story,” with a wonderful outside facilitator, followed by light supper. Mark your calendar, you won’t want to miss it!

Parents of Children Up Through Grade 6
            Ever wonder how to respond to those really pesky questions, like "What is God?" or "Why did my cat die?" or "My friend says I am going to hell?" or so many more?  Do you ever wonder how to help your child or your family develop a sense of spirituality?  Is ritual something that would strengthen your family time together?  What kinds of faith learnings are appropriate at different stages of child development?  Come meet other parents for two sessions with our Minister of Religious Education, Susan Archer, on January 23 and 30, 9:30–11 a.m.  Register through Adult Programs, "Raising UU Kids: Parents as Resident Theologians and Spiritual Guides." Childcare available if requested one week in advance of program.

Youth Notes

Annual Ski Trip
The ski trip for our two youth groups, Youth (gr 7-8) and Senior (gr 9-12), will be February 26-28, 2010.  Forms are available at the church and on the website <www.cedarlane.org>.

Youth Activity Group (Grades 7 & 8)
Manna Food Packing, Tuesday, December 29!
We have a NEW plan for the evening since Manna Food has moved to a new location in Gaithersburg. We will be meeting for dinner at Zio’s Italian Restaurant, 9083 Gaither Road, at 5:30 p.m., or if students need a ride from church, let John know AND be at Cedar Lane by 4:45. Bring: $6 for food and drink; and a completed permission form. Packing should end about 8 p.m. and we’ll be back to church about 8:30 p.m. We always need lots of packers—join us and bring a buddy.  Hope to see you there!  Community Service forms will be available.
            The Youth Activity Group is open to 7^th and 8^th graders at Cedar Lane.  If you have any questions about the Group or its activities, contact John or Kim Clarkson.

Senior High Youth Group (SHYG) (Grades 9–12)
            The next Hang Out is Sunday, January 3, 12:20 p.m., Chalice House.
            The SHAG (Senior High Action Group) meeting will be Sunday, January 10, at 12:20 p.m. in the Chalice House.  This is our time for parents and teens to come together and plan our spring activities. Hope everyone can join us!
            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.
* Permission slip required. Download the flyer from the Senior High page on the Cedar Lane website.

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.

Adult Programs

Labyrinth
      The New Year’s Eve Candlelight Labyrinth Walk will be held Thursday, December 31, from 6 to 9 p.m. Please wear socks.  There is no charge, but donations are appreciated. For more information, contact Chris Mauro at 703-847-5820 or chris.mauro@baesystems.com.
      The annual Silent Retreat will be held from 7 p.m. Friday, January 8, to 6 p.m. Saturday, January 9, led by the Reverend Ellen Swinford. It will begin with an ingathering service and end with reflections and refreshments. The labyrinth will be available during the entire event.  Fast if you like, or bring your own food.  Participants may sleep over at church or return in the morning.  Registration is required by calling 301-493-8300 x207.  For more information call Miriam Pemberton at 301-495-3429.

Sunday Morning Forum
      January 3: "Ethical Eating: Personal in Nature, Global in Reach" with the Cedar Lane Ethical Eating Study Group. The current UUA focus on ethical eating comes at a time when many of us are wondering what more we can do to help our planet and its people. Several positive changes that each of us can make relate to food.  Why does food matter?  Come hear the ideas of the Cedar Lane Ethical Eating Study Group.  They also want to hear yours.  This issue is being studied throughout the denomination and in 2011 will be drafted as the Statement of Conscience to be voted on at the UU General Assembly that year.

Welcome Workshop
      There is a “Welcome Workshop” coming up on Saturday, January 9, with a class and lunch. It is especially for new members, although visitors and current members are invited to attend as well.  The class is led by the ministers as an interactive forum to learn about Unitarian Universalism, our spiritual community, how we operate, what we offer, and ways to get engaged.  It is also an opportunity for us to learn about you and for you to meet other new members. It will be offered four times per year.  The next one will be March 20.  Register through Adult Programs.

Winter/Spring Adult Programs
            Look for the new brochure in your mail the second week in January!  Registration for programs will be held after worship services on January 24 and 31.

January 3, 2009
“What Gives Life Meaning”
Rev. Roger Fritts
A New Year. A time to recall what is really important.

January 3 Forum: “Ethical Eating: Personal in Nature, Global in Reach” with the Cedar Lane Ethical Eating Study Group. The current UUA focus on ethical eating comes at a time when many of us are wondering what more we can do to help our planet and its people. Several positive changes that each of us can make relate to food. Why does food matter? Come hear the ideas of the Cedar Lane Ethical Eating Study Group. They also want to hear yours. This issue is being studied throughout the denomination and in 2011 will be drafted as the Statement of Conscience to be voted on at the UU General Assembly that year.

January 10, 2009
“The Prophetic Tradition”
Rev. Roger Fritts
Moses was a politician. Buddha was a prince. Mohammed was a business and military leader. Jesus was a leader of the oppressed. Gandhi led a revolution. As inheritors of these prophetic traditions, what is our role in the world today?

January 10 Forum: “All about the National Organization of Women (NOW)” with CLUUC member Terry O'Neill, President, feminist attorney, former law professor, and social justice activist.

Grieving a Loved One Through the Holidays Rescheduled to SUNDAY, January 3
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 20 at 12:30 p.m. 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.

Cup Washers Needed
Cup washers are needed after both services. It is quick and easy. It will be greatly appreciated if everyone takes a turn to help out.  Please sign up at http://spreadsheets.google.com/ccc?key=rgPgty2b6jZ2RSyOFhSb-4w or let Molly Hauck know if you can do it. mollyhauck@gmail.com

Last Chance: Beacon House Gifts for Children and Youth: Bring new and unwrapped gifts, new sweaters, coats, hats, gloves, socks and scarves for kids and teens through 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.  We will continue to collect through January 3^rd., please bring your contributions to the office.

Winter Solstice Vespers Service
Rescheduled to Sunday, January 3, 5 p.m.

Members of the Journeywomen and Living By Heart II Connection Circles.
Music Provided by
Carol Ireland, Harpsichord
Margaret Turner, Blockflote

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. 

Welcome Workshop
There is a “Welcome Workshop” coming up on Saturday, January 9, with a class and lunch. It is especially for new members, although visitors and current members are invited to attend as well.  The class is led by the ministers as an interactive forum to learn about Unitarian Universalism, our spiritual community, how we operate, what we offer, and ways to get engaged.  It is also an opportunity for us to learn about you and for you to meet other new members. It will be offered four times per year.  The next one will be March 20.  Register through Adult Programs.

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 Ellen Swinford 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.

Save the date! The next Afghan dinner and silent auction to sponsor couples literacy in Afghanistan will be at the church on Saturday evening, January 23. Details to follow. For more information, contact Annette Scarpitta, 301-493-8566.

Time is running out! Representatives of the International Concerns Coalition (formerly Global Task Force) will be selling alternative gifts this Sunday in the lounge after each service. Make a donation in your giftee's name and benefit your choice of Cedar-Laner- affiliated projects.

New Year’s Resolution: Make Time for Social Justice!
The Social Justice Council (SJC) invites Cedar Laners of all ages to share how you will give time to create a more just and peaceful world.  SJC will be collecting information about how individuals, families, and groups in the congregation plan to be involved in service, advocacy, or other social justice activities between January and March. Of course, we hope this is just a start and that you’ll stay involved for the whole year!  How many of us can get involved? How many hours can we commit? Please stop by the SJC table beginning in January and share your plans with us.

Need some ideas? Come to the Social Justice Fair in the lounge on Sunday, January 10, 9am-1pm. The following groups will be available to inform and inspire you: A Wider Circle, Kakenya Center, Community Based Shelter/Bethesda Men’s Shelter, Friends of Chernobyl  Centers US, Rebuilding Together, Kabultec, Ethical Eating Study Group, Peacemakers, Martha’s Table, 7^th Grade RE Clothing Drive for the Congo, Housing Unlimited, Partner Church Committee, CLARITY, Environmental Task Force, LGBT Task Force,  Action in Montgomery, Unitarian Universalists for Social Justice, Unitarian Universalist Service Committee. There are a few slots left. Email betsy@devlin-foltz.com if you’d like to organize a table.

What Is It And Where To Buy Fair Trade Certified™ Products.
The Fair Trade Certified™ Label guarantees consumers that strict economic, social and environmental criteria were met in the production and trade of an agricultural product. Fair Trade Certification is currently available in the U.S. for coffee, tea and herbs, cocoa and chocolate, fresh fruit, flowers, sugar, rice, and vanilla. TransFair USA licenses companies to display the Fair Trade Certified label on products that meet strict international Fair Trade standards.

Below is a search engine that connects you to retailers selling Fair Trade Certified™ products in our local area.  http://www.transfairusa.org/content/WhereToBuy/

Fridays, January 8, 15, 22, 29, 7-10 pm.  "Films That Make You Think" are showing along with popcorn, discussion, and socializing at River Road Unitarian Universalist Congregation.  Films are typically well-done but little-known, independent, and some foreign, that present interesting issues for discussion. Come to as many as you would like. 6301 River Road, Bethesda, MD. www.rruuc.org 301 229-0400. $2 for popcorn, no fee for movie.

30^th Annual Women’s Legislative Briefing
Sunday, January 31, 2010 12:30 – 5 p.m.
University of Maryland, Shady Grove Campus Building II
9630 Gudelsky Drive, Rockville, Maryland

Pre-registration is required. General Admission fee is $10. For more information, please contact the Montgomery County Commission for Women at 240-777-8330 or www.montgomerycountymd.gov/cfw.

Calendar
Week of Friday, December 25 2009– Sunday, January 3, 2010

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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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