January 2004

The Unitarian Universalist Fellowship At Easton, Maryland

7401 Ocean Gateway, PO Box 1162, Easton, Maryland 21601, 410-822-8103, www.uufeaston.org

Minister: Rev. James M. Bank, 301-633-4274 or 410-822-8103

Co-Presidents: Gail Woodall, 410-

820-8541, & Janet Pfeffer, 410-770-9540

Director of Religious Education: Mary Lou Keller, 410-763-6508

Music Director: Patty Rubin, 410-745-2000

Minister Emeritus: Daniel G. Higgins, Jr. D. Min., 410-745-3462

Newsletter Editor: Amy Eutsey, 410-820-7971

Two Sunday Services With Child Care, 9 & 11 a.m.

Sunday School, 11:00 a.m.

January Sermons

Jan. 4, “Meeting Neptune.” Like so many others, Jim has a card to prove it: He once met Neptune while crossing the Equator. Join us as he draws some conclusions from the experience.

Jan. 11, “George Doe.” A long-ago death and too much alcohol center this sermon that looks of friendships gone wrong, decisions poorly made, and the never-ending quest for a better way.

Jan. 18, “The Importance of Resolution and Agreement to Our UU Purposes and Principles.” Join guest speaker Stewart Levine for what will prove to be a fascinating discussion. His book, Getting to Resolution, entails an entirely new way to deal with conflict. His personal mission is to change the way our culture currently resolves conflicts: To become reliant on resolution and agreement for its business and personal relationships. Levine is a lawyer, management consultant, mediator, and trainer. His clients and students include American Express, Caterpillar, Chevron, ConAgra, General Motors, Oracle, and others. He has been a partner in two law firms and has served as Deputy Attorney General for the state of New Jersey.

Levine will be presenting a series of workshops for people in any kind of relationship at Evergreen Cove from January 16 to 17. Go to the Continued… page for more details.

Jan. 25, “Hidden Love.” This sermon is a tribute to gay and lesbian pride and a look at the problems some have with the idea. Come or stay for special Choir music at the 11 a.m. service.

Ministerial Musings

Jim Bank is in the church office Tuesdays and Wednesdays from 11:00 a.m. to at least 3:00 p.m., but often running into the evening hours. His e-mail address is jmbatmd@aol.com. His personal phone number is 301-633-4274. His home phone is 301-622-6431. Messages also can be left on the office line. Because of meetings and conferences, it is best to call ahead and make an appointment. Jim will be in town a third weekday as well for community events and to visit with members.

Gratitude

As the holiday season comes to a close, I find myself filled with a profound sense of gratitude at what I have been given. The wonderful notes and cards and efforts of so many that culminated in the vote of the congregation to call me as settled minister have been overwhelming. How could I do anything but accept!

Ministry is a difficult task. There are so many wants and needs, so many foci of interest and commitment, such a wealth of capabilities—sometimes congruent and sometimes disparate—that it is hard to decide what the best course is, how to relate, what to do first, when to reach out, and when to reach in. I’m sure that I will need to trust in the graciousness of all in understanding these difficulties. It is a grace I hope that I can return in kind because all of us find ourselves in occasional need of the open acceptance and understanding of others.

And here we are at the beginning of a new year. We are bonded together by our openness to a liberal faith, our high hopes for our Fellowship, and our compassion for the needs of our greater community. May we be a beacon to those about us, a comfort to each other, and sustenance to ourselves in all we do together.

Cathy and Sasha join me in wishing all of you a wonderful new year. See you in church Sunday!

Jim Bank

From the Co-Presidents

Joke: A Unitarian Universalist dies, and on the way to the afterlife encounters a sign with two options: “To Heaven” or “To a Discussion of Heaven.” The UU heads right to the discussion of heaven.

Sequel: On the way to the discussion, the Unitarian Universalist visits UUFE and discovers that no less than FIVE new committees and task forces are in the works. We gain a new member.

Spring Discussions and Doings

The Financial Planning Task Force is developing a 5-year budget projection for UUFE that takes into account projected staffing and building expansion along with other expenses and income sources to maintain our structure and enrich our programs. The 5-year plan will provide a schedule for projecting and regulating cash flow as well as a foundation for fiscal confidence as we move forward. Janet Pfeffer chairs this committee with money mavens Nancy Dimond, Dick Doughty, Beth Jones, George McManus, Nancy Orr, Chan Swallow, Edie Swallow, and Bob Woodall. Let Janet know if you’d like to pull up a calculator.

The new Committee on Ministry will provide an avenue for all members to work on maintaining and strengthening the quality of all aspects of professional and lay ministry at UUFE. This committee will serve as an impartial observer of congregational life, not advocating particular policies or issues on behalf of members or the minister. Members of the committee, along with Jim Bank, are Barbara Doughty, Dan Higgins, Del Joiner, and Laura Winne. Please approach any of these fine people with observations, reactions, and thoughts related to our common goals.

At least five members of UUFE will take part in Healthy Congregation Workshops on the second Saturdays in March, April, May, and June. The invitation to the workshops states that the purpose is “to provide leaders with the in-depth training to understand the congregational system in which they live and operate and how the emotional processes hinder or advance the congregation’s mission.” The workshops will focus on (a) systems thinking, anxiety in a congregation, and self-differentiation; (b) the effects of chronic anxiety in a relationship system; (c) what leaders need to do to be effective healthy role models in the system; and (d) building good relationships in healthy congregations. Thus far, Nancy Krueger, Bob Woodall, and Gail Woodall have signed on; please let Gail know if you might be interested in attending.

Beth Jones and Nancy Orr are overseeing the combined efforts of the Capital Campaign Committee and the Annual Canvass Committee. Every member and friend of our congregation will be involved in a joint campaign this spring to gather pledges for the UUFE 2004–2005 fiscal year and for our 3-year building expansion campaign. Amy Eutsey, Ann Jacobs, Del Joiner, Dave Manning, Kat Stork, Julie Striegel, Chan Swallow, Edie Swallow, Jane Terebey, and Mary Young are among those who are already involved in the super-campaign. Talk with Beth or Nancy about how you fit in as we celebrate, feast, and pledge.

Over the next few months the Board will be creating a Long Range Planning Task Force. This group will involve the congregation in capturing our dreams for the next 5 years and incorporate the work of the Financial Planning Task Force. The resulting plan also will be part of our application to the Joseph Priestley District Chalice Lighters grant to request funding for building expansion.

Gail and I suspect that, in many ways, it’s going to be a heavenly spring.

Janet Pfeffer

Gatherings

Spanish–English Potluck, Jan. 6

Please join us the first Tuesday of each month at 6 p.m. for a Spanish–English potluck dinner at the UUFE (Rt. 50, across from the Easton High School football field). We have had a nice turnout each month. Even if you don’t speak Spanish, or you want to learn some basic phrases, this is a great way to reach out to other cultures. Participants may converse in Spanish or English, and food may be ethnic or any favorite dish. The group is free and open to all. Please bring a main dish, bread, beverage, or dessert. A Spanish–English dictionary is a good idea! Call Julie Striegel (410-820-5902) for more information or just show up! Hasta la vista!

Men’s Lunch Bunch, Jan. 7 & 21

Men from the Fellowship gather promptly at 11:30 a.m. at the Easton Airport Cafe.

Women’s Luncheon, Jan. 8

Mason’s is the place again. Please call Anne Lemp (410-822-9370) if you plan to come so she can reserve a table. But don’t hesitate to come at the last moment; we can always squeeze in another.

Dinner and a Movie Night, Jan. 9

This month’s movie is “Whale Rider,” a contemporary story of love, rejection, and triumph as a young Maori girl fights to fulfill a destiny her grandfather refuses to recognize. Please bring a dish from the sea. Showtime is 6:30 p.m.

New Gathering!

Knitting, Etc., Jan. 17

Now gathering on the third Saturday of each month is a group for knitters and other needle crafters. Come to UUFE at 10 a.m. and knit; talk; share a cup of coffee, tea, or cocoa; and enjoy the camaraderie of those who share your passion. Beginners are welcome. No need to notify us ahead of time, but questions can be directed to Janet Pfeffer or Gail Woodall. Over time, perhaps this will be a good place to share ideas, patterns, tools, and extra yarns.

Vegetarian Potluck, Jan. 20

Join us the third Tuesday of each month at 6 p.m. for vegetarian fare and discussion. We highlight seasonal vegetables, or you can bring salad, bread, or dessert. The theme this month is holiday favorites. There’s always lots of good food, so stop by and sample our cooking. Also, tell your vegetarian friends about our group. Even if you aren’t vegetarian, you will enjoy the food and company, guaranteed! Call Dana Keller (410-763-6508) for more info.

New Gathering!

Young Adults Group, Jan. 20

Adults 18 to 35 years of age are encouraged to get together monthly to converse and perhaps plan events to attend together. Join an all-ages group first for the Vegetarian Potluck, then stay and see what develops, or just show up at 7 p.m. In this small community, this could be a great opportunity to meet like-minded people in an informal atmosphere. Call Mary Lou Keller for details.

Pens & Paper Potluck, Jan. 27

We have a lot of writing talent in our midst, and it grows best when supported. After a quick potluck meal, starting at 6 p.m., we will settle the children down with a video while we writers compare notes and encourage each other. Bring a dish, something you have written and would like to share, or just an ear and some kind words. See Mary Lou for details or just show up.

New Date and Time…

Book Discussion Group, Jan. 29, 11:30 a.m.

The changes are to accommodate some of our readers who will be away the preceding week. This gives you another week to read the widely acclaimed novel, Atonement, by Ian McEwan, which we will discuss, using a discussion guide. Anyday Books in Easton may still have a few copies left. If you don’t get it read, come anyway with your bag lunch. The kettle will be boiling.

Chinese New Year, Feb. 1

Back by popular demand! We will celebrate a festive Lunar New Year but with a new twist. Join us at noon for this brief, but action-packed occasion!

Children’s Religious Education

Saying YES!

When I was a child I moved frequently, living in Argentina twice and attending high school in Switzerland. Every time my father was asked to move his growing family to a foreign country, he called a family meeting and asked all seven children for our opinions. I remember a sense of excitement and optimism that we were gong to have wonderful adventures together. We had complete faith that our parents would keep us safe and provide us with everything we needed to do well in our new environment. We always said YES, with gusto (well, until romances got in the way for several of my brothers…). The only hard part was saying good-bye to our friends and family that we were leaving.

I find myself having similar feelings now. Dana and I have an opportunity to move south this coming summer. Dana has left his job and started consulting. He has also written a book. We will both be looking for full-time employment in Florida, where Dana has family in Sarasota. As a bit of background: Because of an early divorce, Dana did not see his biological father for 33 years, and would now like to support him and his stepmother through some difficult health issues they face. He also has half-siblings he barely knows, and their interesting new families have been very welcoming to us. We have always wanted to live where there is more sunshine, and we feel compelled to move south now that we have more resources and freedom. Sarasota is lovely and has an active UU community, as do many of the cities along the Gulf Coast of Florida. Both our sons will be in college, and they still have my father and other family nearby as well as steady girlfriends. I am excited and optimistic about the adventures ahead, and I have faith in our ability to succeed. I am saying YES, with gusto.

So, although we have enjoyed these 7 years in Easton, it seems like the world is telling us it is time to move on. The only hard part is saying good-bye to friends and family. We have made many deep connections here, which will make leaving difficult. I am especially aware of the strong bonds I have formed with most of the children and want to be sensitive to the different level of impact my leaving will have on them. But I know there are many caring adults in their lives who will quickly make up for my absence, and they are somewhat used to “teachers” being transient. We have a strong and vibrant village here to help raise our children, and it is full of talent, so I have faith the RE programs will continue to prosper. Someone great will say yes to the job of DRE.

The one benefit is that you will have a friendly place to visit, wherever we end up.

Peace, Mary Lou

Heifer Project a Success! More To Come…

We gathered almost $400 for the Heifer Project this holiday season! This is enough to buy a water buffalo and a llama for villages in the neediest parts of the world. Thanks to all the generous donors and to the children for their efforts. In January, we will start another Heifer Project concept—Read to Feed—where children read books and adults pledge a small amount for each book read in the 2 months of the project. Stay tuned for details during Sunday morning announcements.

Multicultural Homeschool Outreach, Japan

On Tuesday, January 20, from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m., we will invite area homeschoolers to join us in an exploration of the fascinating country of Japan. The children will enjoy arts and crafts, music, stories, and Japanese cuisine, with the Lunar New Year being highlighted. Please let Mary Lou know if you have something special you could offer this program.

Parent Meeting, Jan. 11

This month, we will talk about how we got through the holidays and what worked best. Bring a child-friendly potluck item and join us in the RE wing from 12:30 to 2:00 p.m.

Youth Overnight, Jan. 23–24

From 5 p.m. Friday to 2 p.m. Saturday, the teens will take over the building for the night, so be prepared for some major clutter if you stop by. We could use another couple of chaperones to spend the night or some portion of the time with us. Let Mary Lou or Eric Striegel know if you can make it.

Youth Group

Youth group meets weekly for supportive conversation, CupNoodles, and coordinating of events. Our group is open to all youth ages 14 to 19, so if you know someone who could benefit from a liberal, positive peer group send them over on Thursdays from 5:30 to 6:30 p.m. on the RE porch. This month there will be an overnight, and we will attend a CON in February. Eric Striegel, Tom Anovick, and Mary Lou Keller are the youth advisors, and we could use another woman to round out the group. Let Mary Lou know if you are interested.

Joys and Concerns

Once again, we celebrate the joys and share the concerns that our members and friends have experienced during the past month.

We continue to share the concern of Amy and Dwayne Eutsey for the health of Amy’s parents. A recent chat with old member/friends, who now live in Portland, revealed that Nelson Marshall had suffered a stroke but seems to be making a fine recovery, and Grace was reported to be feeling her old self following a bout with a serious stomach ulcer. Nancy Orr has shared her concern for a favorite nephew who is critically ill. Our hopes and prayers go out to each of you.

Ella Janssen, with the help of Len’s good care, is recovering nicely from spinal surgery, and we hear she is beginning to get out and about. Hope to see you soon, Ella! Happily, we celebrated our large UU presence at the ecumenical Thanksgiving Service at the Synagogue. It was good to share the meaningful service and the fellowship that followed with so many of our friends in the community. We look forward to the return of Cathy Miller who has been in California receiving further training in “process acupressure.”

Welcome New Members

We wish to extend a warm welcome to new members:

Leah Sinderman

Frank and Lois Greenburg

A Word From Joe Thome

Joe assures us that he intends to face his long struggle to recovery from a stroke this past September. He recently phoned Karl Lemp and asked that word go out to his many friends at UUFE that he is MOST grateful for the cards and letters people have been sending. Because he can only write with his left hand presently, he won’t be able to acknowledge and thank those who have written, but he has not forgotten them and hopes that they will continue to remember him. He wishes happy holidays to all! Please contact the Fellowship for Joe’s address and phone number.

Adult Religious Education

Jan. 14, “Improvisational Creation With the Arts.” There are certain qualities that all arts share: contrast, repetition, texture, etc. By applying these qualities in our daily lives, we can find the keys to life creation that open all doors. Leader: Sue Loweree

Jan. 21, “…And Justice for All?” The UUA has asked all UU congregations nationwide to take a stand on the U.S. Patriot Act. Join us as we examine this act and its impact on American society. Leader: George McManus

Jan. 28, “Conversations With God.” Based on the book of the same name, tonight’s discussion will focus on the “big picture” search for answers to questions about God, life, and right and wrong. Leader: Ann Jacobs

Music Notes

Choir Calendar

Choir rehearsals are every Thursday evening from 7 to 8:30 p.m. Sunday morning rehearsals for the month of January are 10:30 to 10:45 a.m. on the 11th and 18th and 10:10 to 10:45 a.m. on the 25th (special Choir music Sunday). There is no Choir on the 4th.

Two Mondays a Month!

Song Circle, Jan. 19 & 26

For January, Song Circle dates are Monday, Jan. 9, from 6 to 9 p.m., starting with a potluck dinner in honor of Martin Luther King, Jr., and Monday, Jan. 26, from 7 to 9 p.m., the regular last-Monday-of-the-month gathering. Starting in 2004, the Song Circle will meet twice a month on the middle and the last Monday from 7 to 9 p.m. On Monday holidays, we will start an hour sooner with a potluck supper. Sometimes we might meet on other Monday evenings just for the heck of it!

Drumming Circle, Jan. 23

Join us at 7 p.m. on the third Friday of the month for drumming circle. Some of the drummers have been taking lessons and are getting to be good leaders, so join us if you want to learn or just have fun. There are always extra instruments. Note: Anyone who has a drum or percussion instrument to donate, please call Debra Hathaway (410-770-9057) or bring it to the group.

Summary of the September 2003 Board Meeting

Minister’s Report

Jim Bank presented a letter of acceptance for the position of settled minister. His report focused on the upcoming holiday as well as on plans for an installation ceremony, with his preference being on the grounds of the Fellowship. The Board accepted the letter and report.

DRE Report

Mary Lou Keller informed the Board that she will be resigning in June 2004 and relocating due to her husband’s job situation. She reported on the full schedule of activities of the past 3 months, with an average attendance of 19 children on Sundays. A search committee for a new DRE will be convened early in 2004, with Mary Lou providing guidance for the process.

Financial Report

George McManus reported a balance of $14,522 in the checking account. Janet Pfeffer reported that the Financial Planning Task Force is meeting Thursday at 6:00 p.m. Gene Goll provided an update on the copier and requested that we have a plan for when the current copier dies. Nancy Dimond brought up a procedural issue regarding the disposition of surpluses at the end of the year, whether to leave the money in the checking account or to put part of it in the Capital Campaign. The Financial Planning Task Force will make a recommendation to the Board about the disposition of surplus funds.

Building Expansion

Dick Doughty reported that the group considerations include the implications of not having enough money to do the total plan, with the preference to build the entire shell but leave some of the interior unfinished. The Financial Planning Task Force is doing a cash flow analysis regarding mortgages and debt service. The UUA advises that the mortgage should not exceed 25% of the operating budget. A strategy is being developed, including some very positive discussions with Talbot Bank. The option to borrow money from members as in the past also will be considered. Stephen Meehan inquired about using alternative and nontraditional building techniques, natural energy, and recycled products and indicated that grants are available for this. Dick provided some scenarios on various types of mortgage options, with the mortgage payment included in the annual operating budget plus a $250,000 downpayment from the Capital Campaign.

New Business

Committee on Ministry. This committee will be reactivated. The process for selecting members involves Jim and the Board, each recommending four people then agreeing on four from the list. The committee will be announced at the next Board meeting.

UUA Certification Recommendation. Edie Swallow and Gail Woodall explained what this involves: The number of active members in the UUFE determines the number of delegates the Fellowship has to General Assembly; the Fellowship is required to pay $60 per member to the UUA. Lists were reviewed, including members who have made no contribution of record and members who have had no participation. Jon Hayes and Carla Cherry will be removed from the member roster, making the total number of members 105.

Preparation of Ministerial Letter of Agreement. It is necessary to redefine the relationship of Jim to the UUFE. Nancy will provide the letter for review at the January Board meeting. Also the Board will need to consider the impact on FY 2004 budget. For 2003, nothing changes. The Board acknowledged Jim’s offer to remain three-quarter time for the rest of FY 2003.

Installation Ceremony. A task force to plan this event will include Ann Jacobs, with Patty Joiner as the Board liaison and Jim organizing the installation. Expenses will include travel expenses for the guest minister to install Jim, dinner for local and out-of-town individuals, and a rented tent on the footprint of the new building per Jim’s preference. The event will be planned for late April or early May, with publicity in the Star Democrat and local hospitality provided by members. Janet will provide Patty with a budget based on what is in the current operating budget for the minister search, taking into account the cost of moving expenses for the Bank family. Other suggestions include inviting Barbara and asking David Stevens to photograph the event.

Etcetera

Healthy Congregation Workshops

Saturdays: Mar. 13, Apr. 10, May 8, and Jun. 12

10 a.m. to 4 p.m.

We need a team of at least five persons to register for this series of 4 full-day workshops to be offered one Saturday a month this spring. The location is yet to be announced. There is no upper limit on attendance, so everyone is welcome. The fee is $90 for the entire series. Contact Gail Woodall if you are interested
in attending.

Thank You, Deck-the-Hallers

The Worship Committee thanks the following people for our lovely Christmas decorations: Anne and Karl Lemp for our Christmas tree, Carol Kabler and Nancy Orr for the greenery in the windows, Jean Rhian for the donation of the Christmas flower arrangement in memory of her parents, and the children for their snowflakes. The committee also invites members of the congregation to donate flowers for our Sunday services in memory of loved ones. To do this, please contact Cynthia Quast (410-819-8679).

Workshops for People in Any Kind of Relationship

With Stewart Levine

On January 16 and 17, California-based author, trainer, and facilitator Stewart Levine will be at Evergreen Cove to offer creative workshops for people in any kind of relationship—personal or professional!

When you start any new project or relationship, you need the tools to create a roadmap of what you want to accomplish and how to get there. Managing by Agreement teaches you how to create covenantal relationships based on shared commitment to ideas, issues, values, goals, and processes. Covenant is a key ingredient for having a “family” at work as well as at home, and family is the source of the richness and fulfillment we seek. If you’re deep in conflict, The New MBA provides a conversational process to resolution. The ability to resolve conflict and form relationships that work affects the core of every personal relationship and every organizational function, whether it be teaming, managing, partnering, customer servicing, etc.

In the workshops, participants will learn how to use agreements for results, not protection; create agreements with results for oneself; normalize conflict; respond, rather than react; turn conflict into collaboration; and use fundamental life skills never learned in school!

All of these things will result in improved vitality, more satisfying relationships at work and at home, greater levels of productivity, higher income and earning potential, and less fear of dealing with others! To register, call 410-819-3395, or for more information, visit www.ResolutionWorks.org.

Offerings

The New MBA—Managing By Agreement

Friday, January 16, 9 a.m.–4 p.m.

For Businesses and Professionals

Investment: $95

Lecture

Living By Agreement: Reducing Stress, Improving Satisfaction and Results

Friday, January 16, 7:30 p.m.

An entertaining, educational evening that shows you how to create satisfying relationships, careers, and more in your life!

Investment: $15

Couples/Partners Renewal

Resolving Conflict and Living By Agreement

Saturday, January 17, 10 a.m.–6 p.m.

Couples are invited to come together to understand ways in which each person’s unarticulated agreements can be brought into awareness, expressed, and used to bring a sense of renewal to the relationship.

Investment: $129/couple