BUUF Sundays Archive 2007

BUUF 2007 Sunday Services Archive

January

Sunday, January 7, one service at 10 am

"A Fresh Start," The Rev. Elizabeth Greene

The beginning of the new year always brings resolutions about diets, exercise, relationships, old habits. Is this the way to make fresh starts happen? Bruce Dowlin, service coordinator. Cees Hoefnagels, music.

Sunday, January 14, two services at 9 and 11 am

"Racism, Classism: Who, Us?" The Rev. Elizabeth Greene

On this Martin Luther King weekend, Elizabeth will share last June's General Assembly Responsive Resolution on Racism and Classism, and explore how these sensitive subjects relate to us. Jo Wilsdorf, service coordinator. Bruce Dowlin, music.

Sunday, January 21, two services

"There and Back Again," Tom von Alten

We visit the literal and metaphorical waystations of a spiritual journey, in progress. Carol Wechselberger, service coordinator, Coston Frederick and Charlotte Tompkins, music.

Sunday, January 28, two services at 9 and 11 am

"BOT, GA and Other Mysteries," The Rev. Elizabeth Greene

Our minister is a member of the national Unitarian Universalist Board, and some of you may have wondered what goes on during those 3-day meetings in Boston. Come and be enlightened! Desiree Swain and Christine Hanzlik, service coordinators. Bruce McAllister and Charlotte Tompkins, music.


February

Sunday, February 4 one service at 10 am

"Filling the Void," The Rev. Elizabeth L. Greene

So many of us configure our lives so that we are full all the time: of activities, relationship, expectations. Are we trying to avoid looking at the empty spaces honored by some religious traditions? David Ward, service coordinator. Choir, directed by Carrie Bastian, music.

Sunday February 11, 2007, 9 am and 11 am

"Come, Come," The Rev. Elizabeth L. Greene

One of an irregular series of "reprise" sermons, Elizabeth will revisit a sermon about communication, community and forgiving ourselves and others. Gail Haldeman, service coordinator. Jo Douglas, Patti Raino, Charlotte Tompkins, music.

Sunday February 18, 2007, 9:30 am at Grove Hotel

"Affirming Faith: When Opposites Fall Away," the Rev. Alex Holt

Join UUs from around the Pacific NW District at the Grove Hotel for the closing worship of AGM. Open to all; see article inside for details of children and youth participation and Rev. Holt's sermon. Music from the AGM choir, led by Carrie Bastian and accompanied by Nuralima.

(NOTE: No Service at BUUF this Sunday!)

Sunday February 25, 2007 9 am and 11 am

"And on the Seventh Day..." The Rev. Elizabeth L. Greene

Do you know that the longest of the Ten Commandments is the one about honoring the Sabbath and keeping it holy? However we feel about that fact, what would it be like to honor a Sabbath every week? Jay and Carol Wechselberger, service coordinators. Amy Tompkins, McKenzie Bauer, Charlotte Tompkins, music.


March

March 2007 Sunday Services

Sunday, March 4 ONE SERVICE AT 10 AM, POTLUCK FOLLOWING

"Reverent Doubt," Rev. Elizabeth Greene

We Unitarian Universalists are known for our questioning, doubting, even skepticism. Is it possible to bring reverence to such attitudes? Bruce Dowlin, service coordinator. BUUF Choir, music. (Don't forget the One-Hour Choir!)

Sunday, March 11, 9 and 11am DAYLIGHT SAVINGS TIME!

"The Life and Times of Educating Our Children (Religiously)" Jennifer Thrall-Thomas, DRE and Rev. Elizabeth Greene

Jennifer and Elizabeth will reflect on significant developments in UU religious education, that foundationally important area so often relegated to the "lesser spheres" inhabited by women and children. CHILDREN'S DEDICATION—CONTACT JENNIFER IF YOU HAVE QUESTIONS. Don Schutte, service coordinator. Nuralima, music.

Sunday, March 18, 9 am and 11 am

"The Delicate Subject of Classism," Rev. Elizabeth Greene

Unitarian Universalists tend to be more highly educated than "average Americans" and also have a higher-than-average income. Are there ways we can include more people in the saving message of UUism? Gail Haldeman, service coordinator. Janelle Brown and Cees Hoefnagels, music.

Sunday, March 25, 9 am and 11 am

"Drumbeat for Darfur - Stop the Genocide, Rhonda Schaff"
UUSC Justice Sunday

Our congregation will stand together with UUSC and UU congregations across the country to speak out against the genocide in Darfur. The principles of Unitarian Universalism call upon us to work for justice in the face of this devastating crisis.

Christine Hanzlik, service coordinator. Bruce Dowlin, Joe Wechselberger, Tom von Alten music.


April

Sunday, April 1, ONE SERVICE AT 10 AM, FOLLOWED BY POTLUCK

"A Merry Heart Doeth Good Like a Medicine," Rev. Elizabeth Greene

Elizabeth shares her take on the serious subject of humor. SPECIAL GUEST (no joke): Mr. Jim Ogle will share his theology of giving. David Ward, service coordinator. Michelle Coleman, Andy Pendley, Bob Wallace, music.

Sunday, April 8, 9am and 11am

"The Message of Hope," Rev. Elizabeth Greene and BUUF Choir, directed by Carrie Bastian

Come celebrate Resurrection and Spring! Elton Hall, service coordinator.

Sunday April 15, 9 am and 11 am

"More Than Nice," Rev. Elizabeth Greene

"Nice" is a controversial word, causing some people to feel nauseated and others to feel warm and fuzzy. What is it and how does it relate to spiritual matters? Gail Haldeman, service coordinator. Coston Frederick and Bruce Dowlin, music.

Sunday, April 22, 9 am and 11 am

"Reweaving the Web, Renewing Our Commitment, and Restoring the Balance," Sue Philley

Today's service will help us renew our commitment to the Seventh Unitarian Universalist Principle "Respect for the interdependent web of all existence of which we are a part." We will explore ways of thinking about living beings that can help restore balance (and perhaps mend) our endangered web. Carol and Jay Wechselberger, service coordinators. Bob Wallace, Lance Pitman, Nuralima, and Charlotte Tompkins, music.

Sunday, April 29, 9am and 11 am

"Bridging," Rev. Elizabeth Greene, our high school seniors, Religious Education Director Jennifer Thrall-Thomas

Each year, we have the blessed opportunity to hear what our high school seniors have to say to us, on the eve of their "going forth." Christine Hanzlik, service coordinator. Sue Langley, music.


May

Sunday, May 6, ONE SERVICE AT 10 AM

COMMITMENT SUNDAY, "Be the Beacon," Michael Durall

How might BUUF redefine the proverbial "good life" as different from the cultural norms? What are we called to do in this place and time, and what legacy do we leave our children? Mike calls generosity "one of life's great privileges." Come be inspired! Bruce Dowlin, service coordinator. BUUF Choir, directed by Carrie Bastian and accompanied by Nuralima, music.

Sunday, May 13, 9 am and 11 am

"Coming of Age," BUUF youth, Jennifer Thrall-Thomas, Rev. Elizabeth Greene

After eight months of reflecting together on theological and ethical matters-with peers and adults-our Coming of Age youth share their faith statements. Don Schutte, service coordinator. Charlotte Tompkins, music

Sunday, May 20, ONE SERVICE AT 10 am, ANNUAL MEETING FOLLOWING (light lunch provided by the Board)

"Another Year!" Rev. Elizabeth Greene

Elizabeth reflects on the year just passed; Jade Duffy delivers her Coming of Age talk; we reflect on passages of many sorts. Carol Wechselberger, service coordinator. Cees Hoefnagels and Janelle Brown, music.

Sunday, May 27, 9 am and 11 am

"My Path of Practice, " Wanda Jennings

Influenced by Edgar Cayce, Buddha, Richard Bach, Pollyanna, Bryan, synchronicity, friends and family, Wanda brings a positive attitude to life. Come learn of her spiritual path and her daily practice. Gail Haldeman, service coordinator. Bruce Dowlin, music.


June

Sunday, June 3, ONE SERVICE AT 10 AM, POTLUCK PICNIC FOLLOWING

"Flower Communion," Rev. Elizabeth Greene

Bring a flower to share, in one of our beloved rituals. Children over nursery age participate in the service. Music, choir. David Ward, service coordinator.

Sunday, June 10; 10 AM ONLY

"What is it We UUs Rally Around?" Sharon Barlow Palm

Jay and Carol Wechselberger, service coordinators

Sunday, June 17; 10AM ONLY

"Father's Day," Roger Sherman

Christine Hanzlik, service coordinator

Sunday, June 24; 10AM ONLY

"Faith in your own Individuality" by Frank Lloyd Wright, presentation and reflection by Dale Winke

Almost 50 years after his passing, Frank Lloyd Wright's shadow continues to eclipse the world of architecture. Wright was an individual spirit in the extreme. However, time and myth obscures the true nature of the individual. Using one of Frank Lloyd Wright's "Sunday Morning Talks" to his architectural apprentices at the Taliesin Fellowship in March 1953, we shall see how Unitarianism informed his architecture to make the world a better place. Jay and Carol Wechselberger, service coordinators.


July

Sunday, July 1, 2007, 10 am

"The Love of God," E. Coston Fredericks

Coston will read a sermon that was originally presented by one of BUUF's former ministers, J.W. Tompkins, on March 2, 1980. Christine Hanzlik, service coordinator. Bruce Dowlin, music.

Sunday, July 8, 2007, 10 a.m.

"Finding spirituality while changing diapers," David Ward

David recounts his three-year odyssey as a stay-at-home father, while simultaneously plunging into religion for the first time as a Unitarian Universalist. All of this while living in the most conservative state in the union. An interesting journey, to say the least. Gail Haldeman, service coordinator. Susan Langley, music.

Sunday , July 15, 2007, 10 am

"Are We There Yet?" Kit Brown

On the road trip of life, there are rough patches, scenic overlooks, tourist traps, and sometimes, a few detours that lead to a destination you didn't expect but are glad you found.

Sunday, July 22, 2007, 10am

"Blessings and Blunders in Indian Country." Bruce and Sheryl Dowlin

Bruce and Sheryl will share their stories about working with and developing friendships with the Dakota, Hochunk and other tribal people in Minnesota over the last 20 years.

Carol Wechselberger, service coordinator.

Sunday, July 29, 10 a.m.

"Judging a Book by Its Cover," Don Schutte

Is it really possible to be non-judgmental? A look at how we jump to conclusions. David Ward, service coordinator. Susan Langley, music.


August

August 5, 2007, 10 am

"Taking it to the Next Level: Transformation, Growth and the Stages of Consciousness," Lynne Tolk

How have your ideas about the world and your relation to it changed over the years? And how might those ideas continue to evolve? Is there any pattern to it all? Let's explore the relevance of theories of consciousness and developmental psychology to our own lives. Bruce Dowlin, service coordinator.

August 12, 2007, 10 am

"Our Debt to Universalists," John Harms

Listen to long-time UU John Harms speak about our UU heritage and what we can learn from it. Bruce Dowlin, service coordinator.

August 19, 2007, 10 am

"Humanist Voices"

A dramatic reading by several members of BUUF's humanist group will highlight the contribution of humanist thinkers in our cultural (and religious)heritage. David Ward, service coordinator.

August 26, 2007, 10 am

"The Gospels of Judas and Mary Magdalene—What Do They Mean?" Elton Hall.

The Gospel of Mary Magdalene gives a prophetic place to Mary, and the recently discovered Gospel of Judas provides a radically different view of the alleged betrayal of Jesus. What did these texts mean for early Christians? Do they have a spiritual message for us today? Gail Haldeman, service coordinator. Susan Langley, music.


September

September 2, 2007, 10 am

"Choices That Matter - UUA's General Assembly (GA) in Portland"

Several people from our Fellowship journeyed to Portland in June to take part in GA, making choices that matter, living the democratic process, attending workshops and plenary sessions. Come hear all about it. Carol and Jay Wechselberger, service coordinators.

September 9, one service at 10 am, potluck following

"Traveling Souls," Rev. Elizabeth Greene

On this first Sunday of the program year—the year in which Elizabeth takes a sabbatical starting in January—she will muse about souls' care, whether traveling afar or at home. David Ward, service coordinator. Janelle Brown, Cees Hoefnagels and Charlotte Tompkins, music.

September 16, 9am & 11 am

"The Seasons' Turnings," Rev. Margaret Keip and Rev. Elizabeth Greene

Margaret Keip, a dear and valued colleague of Elizabeth's, will be "our" minister one weekend a month while Elizabeth is on sabbatical. She and Elizabeth will share a sermon about ministry, relationships, traveling and staying at home. Bruce Dowlin, service coordinator. Susan Langley, music.

September 23, 9 am & 11 am

"The Mindful Journey," Rev. Elizabeth Greene

Every so often, Elizabeth feels moved to remind herself and the congregation of that basic spiritual practice, mindfulness. This service will include some mindful practices, so come prepared for a little interactivity! Carol and Jay Wechselberger, service coordinators. Charlotte Tompkins, music.

September 30, 9 am & 11 am

"Boston Bound and Back," Boston trip participants, including youth, parents, chaperones and minister

Our junior high biennial summer "pilgrimage" to Boston always yields insight and fascinating anecdotes. Come hear how our youth, parents and minister got from this enriching experience. Gail Haldeman, service coordinator. Amy Tompkins, McKenzie Bauer, Cees Hoefnagels, music.


October

October 7, 2007 One service at 10 am

"Using the Seven Principles on the Journey," Rev. Elizabeth Greene

A reminder of how our principles, often seeming very abstract, can find themselves embodied in the passions and events of real life. David Ward, service coordinator. Eric Wallace and Charlotte Tompkins, music. (There will be a fire drill conducted during the service.

October 14, 2007 9 &11 am

"Collaboration on One of Life's Essential Tasks," Rev. Elizabeth Greene

What does the Congregational Care Team (formerly known as Pastoral Care Team) do, anyhow? What's the balance between giving and receiving? Mary Osterman, service coordinator. Bruce McAllister, Mary Schwartzman, music.

October 21, 9 am & 11 am

"The Divine Feminine in Buddhist Practice"—Tony DeAngelis

"Like the other great world axial religions, Buddhism has been dominated by patriarchal belief structures. This talk will examine why the study of the Divine Feminine in Buddhist practice is essential for a deeper understanding of Buddhist practice. We will attempt to unite the head of Buddhist practice with its heart." Carol and Jay Wechselberger, service coordinators. Jo Douglas and Patti Raino, music.

October 28, 2007 9 &11 am

"Life After Epiphany," Rev. Elizabeth Greene

There's the old saying, "After enlightenment, the laundry." Does it have any relevance to Unitarian Universalists, we who don't think much about enlightenment? Gail Haldeman, service coordinator. Bruce Dowlin, music.


November

Nov. 4, One service at 10 am, followed by Potluck

 "Framing Our Cultural History," Drew Dellinger

Drew is a storyteller, musician and engaging interpreter of culture. After attending his Saturday workshop, we will want to hear more in this Sunday service. Bruce Dowlin, service coordinator. Choir, directed by Carrie Bastian and accompanied by Susan Langley, music.

Nov. 11, 9am & 11am

"Comrades in Arms," Rev. Elizabeth Greene

In this time of our country's involvement in yet another "little" war, Elizabeth will celebrate Veteran's Day by reflecting on what it means to be comrades to one another. David Ward, service coordinator. Susan Langley, music.

Nov. 18, 2007, 9am & 11am

"Deep and Abiding Connections" Partner Church Committee and Rev. Elizabeth Greene

An exploration of the challenges and rewards of partnership between the BUUF and the Unitarian Congregation in Mészkõ, Transylvania. Come learn how a journey to our partner village transforms the traveler. Jay and Carol Wechselberger, service coordinator. Charlotte Tompkins and Bob Wallace, music.

Nov. 25, 2007, 9 am & 11 am

"The Jesus Seminar: The Search for the Historical Jesus," Steve Scanlin.

He is a local attorney, member of the Veterans for Peace and a recent participant (along with two members of our congregation) in the Jesus Seminar in Oregon. He is also the Moderator of the Central Pacific Conference of the United Church of Christ. Bruce Dowlin, service coordinator.


December

Sunday, December 2, one service 10am, followed by potluck

"Deck the Halls," Children's Religious Education classes, assisted by teachers and adult volunteers

This year the theme of the festive annual intergenerational service is "A Season of Lights." Come prepared to enjoy our children and youth share their thoughts and voices. David Ward, service coordinator. Cees Hoefnagels, music.

Sunday, December 9, 9 and 11am

"Sabbatical Time," Rev. Elizabeth Greene

Our minister, Elizabeth Greene, will begin a six-month sabbatical on January 14, 2008. This morning, she will speak of what an "extended Sabbath" means, and tell us of her plans. Mark Zimmerman, service coordinator. Amy Tompkins and McKenzie Bauer, music.

Sunday, December 16, 9 and 11am

"Peace, Darkness and Winter," Rev. Elizabeth Greene

As we approach the darkest night of the year, Elizabeth and the choir will remind us that it is good to slow down, appreciate the necessary darkness, and find the inner peace that can lead to greater harmony in the world. Tony DeAngelis, service coordinator. Buuf Choir, music; Carrie Bastian, director, Susan Langley, accompanist.

Friday, December 21, one service at 7 pm

"Winter Solstice Celebration," led by The Rev. Elizabeth Greene and the ever-faithful Solstice Team

This annual favorite is a reflective service celebrating light's return and pondering what we want to leave in the darkness and what bring into the light. About an hour long, it very appropriate for children who can sit relatively quietly for that long. BRING HOLIDAY GOODIES FOR THE FESTIVE PARTY AFTERWARD!

Sunday, December 23, 9 and 11 am

"The Blessed Sound of Silence," Rev. Elizabeth Greene

Elizabeth continues the tradition of a Quaker-style meeting on the Sunday before Christmas. After a reading, chalice lighting, simple song and brief explanation, we sit in silence for about 45 minutes, emulating the excellent practice of our sisters and brothers in the Friends tradition.  Carol and Jay Wechselberger, service coordinators.

Monday, December 24, one service at 7 pm

Traditional Christmas Eve Service, Rev. Elizabeth Greene

Carols, traditional reading from the book of Luke plus contemporary readings, a Christmas homily by Elizabeth—capped by the lovely tradition of going outside, lighting candles, singing "Silent Night." Children under 10 who are comfortable behaving worshipfully are welcome to join us, as are all children over 10 (comfortable behaving worshipfully, of course). There will a program for children under 10 who choose not to attend the service.

Sunday, December 30, 9 and 11am

"Look Back, Look Forward," Nancy Harms

"Peace is not something you wish for it's something you make, something you do, something you are, and something you give away."— Robert Fulghum. David Ward, service coordinator.

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