Schedule

September 2012 – December 2012

  • 12/23/12. (Peace) Unitarian Universalist Church of Santa Clarita Valley, 10:30 am Worship:  Intergenerational Winter Holiday Service
  • 12/02/12. (Peace) Unitarian Universalist Church of Santa Clarita Valley, 10:30 am Worship:  TBD
  • 11/18/12. (Gratitude) Unitarian Universalist Church of Santa Clarita Valley, 10:30 am Worship:  In Awe & Gratitude!
  • 11/04/12. (Gratitude) Unitarian Universalist Church of Santa Clarita Valley, 10:30 am Worship:  TBD
  • 10/21/12. (Vocation) Unitarian Universalist Church of Santa Clarita Valley, 10:30 am Worship:  The Reformation Blues
  • 10/07/12. (Vocation) Unitarian Universalist Church of Santa Clarita Valley, 10:30 am Worship:  Living the Life You Love (including a Teacher Dedication Ceremony)
  • 09/16/12. (Unity) Unitarian Universalist Church of Santa Clarita Valley, 10:30 am Worship:  TBD “Invite-A-Friend Sunday” (followed by a New2UU session!)
  • 09/09/12. (Unity) Unitarian Universalist Church of Santa Clarita Valley, 10:30 am Worship:  United We Stand

September 2011-August 2012

  • 07/08/12. Unitarian Universalist Meeting of South Berkshire, MA, 10:30 am Worship: A Happy Coincidence
  • 06/22/12. UUA General Assembly, Phoenix, AZ. Workshop: The Reluctant Activist.
  • 06/10/12. Unitarian Universalist Church of Santa Clarita Valley, 10:30 am Worship: “Potpourri” service. Previously submitted questions on UU history, theology, values, activism, spirituality, ministry, etc. will be answered today!
  • 06/03/12. Unitarian Universalist Church of Santa Clarita Valley, 10:30 am Worship: TBD (on this year’s monthly themes)
  • 05/20/12 (Transcedence), Unitarian Universalist Church of Santa Clarita Valley, Worship: “The Great Turning”.  The social and environmental challenges facing this and future generations require a radical shift in our understandings of the world and our place in it.  Join us, as we explore the hopeful vision of what eco-feminist Joanna Macy calls The Great Turning.
  • 05/06/12 (Transcendence), Unitarian Universalist Church of Santa Clarita Valley, Worship: “Transcending Thoughts”.  Invite a friend for this celebration of the wisdom, the lives and poetry of American transcendentalists

MAY: submit your questions about UU history, theology, values, activism, spirituality, ministry, etc. to Rev. Stefanie or the Committee on Shared Ministry by 20th. Then come to the 06/10 worship service to hear responses at the Potpourri ervice!

  • 04/15/12 (Transformation), Unitarian Universalist Church of Santa Clarita Valley, Worship: “Transforming Thoughts”.  Transforming one’s life and community takes a lot of courage and insight.  It involves a vision of something toward which to strive, as well as a willingness to apply resources in a spirit of trust and gratitude!  (on money as tool of transformation)
  • 04/08/12 (Transformation), Unitarian Universalist Church of Santa Clarita Valley, Worship: “Intergenerational Flower Communion Sunday”.  Invite friends of all ages to this special UU service celebrating Springtime stories of transformation and the beauty and transformative power of life’s diversity!  Bring along a cut flower for the Flower Communion.
  • 03/18/12 (Brokeness), Unitarian Universalist Church of Santa Clarita Valley, Worship: “There is a Balm”. The quest to heal that which feels broken within us, to face our imperfections or disappointments is a timeless one – reflected powerfully in poems, songs, silence and stories, proving that it is possible not only to survive but to thrive!(This service will be followed by a New2UU session open which is a requirement of membership but is open to all! Childcare provided)03/04/12 (Brokenness), Unitarian Universalist Church of Santa Clarita Valley, Worship: “Speaking of Sin”. While many religious traditions value and strive for perfection, it’s clear that human beings generally have a hard time living up to that standard! This service will explore the history and impact of “sin”, offering an empowering Unitarian Universalist perspective.
  • 02/25/12, Sydney, Australia. Circle of Love Ceremony for Sophie Rose Laufer Robertson.
  • 02/12/12, Unitarian Universalist Fellowship of Conejo Valley, Worship 9:15 & 11:00 am: “A Happy Coincidence”
  • 02/05/12 (Love), Unitarian Universalist Church of Santa Clarita Valley, Worship: “Ten Years and Counting”. Love and dedication gave birth to this congregation ten years ago, nurturing it, challenging and inspiring it, ever since. Come celebrate UUofSCV’s 10th birthday! Bring your stories of the past, your vision and blessings for the future.
  • 02/01/12, PSWD SFV Cluster Vespers, Unitarian Universalist Church of Studio City, Worship: “Celebrating Congregational Milestones”.
  • 01/22/12 (Justice), Unitarian Universalist Church of Santa Clarita Valley, Worship: “Beyond Just Us” - The who, what, when, where, how and why of Justice
  • 12/24/11, Unitarian Universalist Church of Santa Clarita Valley, 7:00 pm, Worship: Intergenerational UU Christmas Eve Candlelight Service
  • 12/04/11, Unitarian Universalist Church of Santa Clarita Valley. Worship: (Hope) “Occupy Hope”. This service invites reflection upon Hope, as it is generated through the songs, symbols and celebrations of the season; through stories both of acts of Divine and, especially these days, human.
  • 11/20/11,Unitarian Universalist Church of Santa Clarita Valley, Worship: (Faith) “Faithing Around the Deep Well”. Faith is most often spoken of as a Belief one either has or doesn’t have. What does it mean within the Unitarian Universalist context? What does it mean to you? Join us as we celebrate individual and collective “Faithing”! (This service will include a New Member Recognition Ceremony)
  • 11/13/11, Unitarian Universalist Fellowship of Kern County, Bakersfield, Worship: “In Praise of Faith”. UUs have a complicated relationship with Faith. What is it? What does it mean to be a People of Faith?
  • 11/06/11,Unitarian Universalist Church of Santa Clarita Valley, Worship: (Faith) “Creeds and other Deeds”. Unitarian Universalism is set apart as a “creed-less faith”. What’s the history around that and why is it important? This month’s theme of “Faith” inspires reflections on early Christian history as a way to better understand, claim and protect the gift of Unitarian Universalism.
  • 10/26/11, PSWD SFV Cluster Vespers, Sepulveda UU Society, North Hills, Worship: “When the Spirit Says Shirk”
  • 10/16/11, Unitarian Universalist Church of Santa Clarita Valley, Worship: (Death) The Apocalypse and You(u). Human imagination has long wrestled with the mysterious nature of time and the fact that we “only have so much of it” – inspiring a variety of religious responses (from fear to joyful anticipation) as well as blockbuster movies! What’s a UU to do?
  • 10/09/11, Pacific Unitarian Universalist Church, Palos Verdes, Worship: “Living with Dying”. “Living with Dying”. The seasonal changes we notice this time of year draw attention to the often much-less-visible, deeply personal experiences of change, loss and grief uniting us throughout time and space. All ages welcome for this thoughtful celebration of Life it is, was, and can be.
  • 10/08/11, Monte Vista Unitarian Universalist Church, Leadership Retreat
  • 10/02/11, Unitarian Universalist Church of Santa Clarita Valley, Worship: (Death) “Living with Dying”. The seasonal changes we notice this time of year draw attention to the often much-less-visible, deeply personal experiences of change, loss and grief uniting us throughout time and space. All ages welcome for this thoughtful celebration of Life it is, was, and can be.
  • 09/26/11, PSWD UU Minister’s Association, Welcoming Worship
  • 09/25/11, Unitarian Universalist Church of Santa Clarita Valley, Worship: Wade In the Water. Forgiveness heals both those who forgive and those who are forgiven. An important, frequently overlooked element of forgiveness has to do with our ability to forgive ourselves.09/25/11, Unitarian Universalist Church of Los Angeles, Ordination: Tera Little
  • 09/18/11, Unitarian Universalist Church of Santa Clarita Valley, Worship Host for Rev. Jim Grant: The Healing Of All Our Wounds. Forgiveness heals both those who forgive and those who are forgiven. An important, frequently overlooked element of forgiveness has to do with our ability to forgive ourselves.
  • 09/11/11, Unitarian Universalist Church of Santa Clarita Valley, Worship: Since 2001. Forgiveness is a common religious theme: a precious gift when received, a healing balm when granted, and quite often an extremely hard path to walk. On this tenth anniversary of the horrific events of 09/11 we explore aspects of such deeply personal journeys.

September 2010 – August 2011

  • 08/27/11, Unitarian Universalist Church of Santa Clarita – Board Retreat
  • 07/10/11, Unitarian Universalists of South Berkshire, Great Barrington, MA. Worship: TBD
  • 06/26/11, Unitarian Universalist Church of Santa Clarita, Worship Support for speaker Sean Gabe
  • 06/12/11, Unitarian Universalist Church of Santa Clarita Valley, Worship: “Potpourri”. This special service is a creative response to an assortment of questions submitted by YOU! Find out what other folks are curious about, and how those questions might connect with your own.
  • 06/05/11, Unitarian Universalist Church of Santa Clarita Valley, Worship: “Sacred Spaces”. The world is filled with places designated as “sacred”. Some of them are visually stunning examples of human ingenuity or folly. Others are quite ordinary – recognizable only to few. What makes a place sacred, and why are such places important?
  • 05/21/11, Neighborhood UU Church, PSWD District Assembly, Workshop: “The Reluctant Activist” (see notes on workshop page)
  • 05/15/11, Unitarian Universalist Church of Santa Clarita Valley, Worship: “The Reluctant Activist”. Unitarian Universalists recognize and take seriously their responsibility to the wider world. And yet, balancing those needs with one’s personal life (time, finances, physical abilities, relationships, etc.) can be a real challenge. This service offers practical insights into this confounding dynamic, and encouragement towards authentic, meaningful and sustainable engagement with the world.
  • 05/11/11, Emerson UU Church of Canoga Park, SVF Cluster Valley Vespers Worship: Photo-Ministry. We hear a lot about congregational ministry, community ministry, youth ministry and social justice ministry. But what about the ministry that is deeply personal, manifesting in each moment, as a snap-shot of our values? That’s what this homily is about!
  • 05/08/11, Unitarian Universalist Community Church of Santa Monica, Worship: Family Matters (Mother’s Day)
  • 05/01/11, Unitarian Universalist Church of Santa Clarita Valley, Worship: Pondering Prayer. As part of the National Day of Prayer people of all Faiths will be joining together this week to pray on behalf of this nation and it’s leaders. While prayer has long been considered a potent spiritual practice in many religious traditions, understandings of “what it is”, “what it means”, and “what effect it has” can differ radically. What might it mean for you, as a Unitarian Universalist? (This service will include a welcome ceremony for UUofSCV’s newest members!)
  • 04/24/11, Unitarian Universalist Church of Santa Clarita Valley, Worship: Yearning for Renewal – A Flower Communion Service. Spring is all about renewal! During this special service all ages are invited to explore the ways in which different traditions express their yearning for renewal and what those expressions say about their value systems. This service will include a “Flower Communion” – so bring along a few cut flowers to represent the beauty of YOUR yearning!
  • 04/09/11, SFV Cluster Leadership Day: Honing Leadership Skills. Sepulveda UU Society, North Hills. 9:00 am – 1:00 pm
  • 04/03/11, Unitarian Universalist Church of Santa Clarita Valley, Worship: To Give and Receive. Membership in liberal religious community involves a willingness to understand and honor life’s gifts of reciprocity. Join us for this special service celebrating UUofSCV’s newest members and the spiritual practice of giving and receiving.
  • 03/13/11, Unitarian Universalist Church of Santa Clarita Valley, Worship: Family Matters. Family is less about “how” we’re connected genetically, than about “that” we’re connecting! Join us as we explore and rededicate ourselves to the gifts and challenges of family. Please be sure to attend the after-service Forum on behalf of this congregation as a place of spiritual enrichment for people of all ages. (Followed by a Forum on Religious Education)
  • 03/06/11, Unitarian Universalist Church of Santa Clarita Valley, Worship: “When Less is More”. The upcoming Christian season of Lent (beginning on Wednesday) invites a practice of mindfulness that can be truly enriching to Unitarian Universalists seeking to create space for spiritual depth in their individual and collectives lives.
  • 02/27/11, Unitarian Universalist Fellowship of Kern County, Bakersfield, CA. Worship: Family Matters. Family is less about “how” we’re connected genetically, than about “that” we’re connecting! Join us as we explore and rededicate ourselves to the gifts and challenges of family.
  • 02/20/11, Unitarian Universalist Church of Santa Clarita valley, Worship: Judging A Book. We can learn a lot from books and from people! This service is in honor of Black History Month and the UUofSCV Book Fair, offering insights into some of the lessons offered by popular African American authors. (3rd Sunday offering)
  • 02/13/11, Unitarian Universalist Church of Santa Monica, Installation of Rev. Rebecca Rajswasser Bijur
  • 02/06/11, Unitarian Universalist Church of Santa Clarita Valley, Worship: Friend In Deed. Friendship is one of the most complex (and often longest-lasting) kind of relationship we humans have. Invite your BFF, buddy, pal or chum for this celebration of Friendship!
  • 01/30/11, Unitarian Universalist Fellowship of Kern County, Bakersfield, CA. Worship: Touchstone of Truth- In Celebration of Personal Integrity. Inter-personal relationships are as fraught with challenges as they are essential. What of the duty we owe to the “voice still and small” within? Join us as we take a closer look at the power of Covenant to heal and transform our individual lives and our communities.
  • 01/26/11, Sepulveda UU Church of Studio City, SVF Cluster Valley Vespers Worship: Let This Be A Sign. (On Covenant)
  • 01/23/11, Unitarian Universalist Church of Santa Clarita valley, Worship: And Justice for All…? Justice is commonly defined as a moral imperative, the state of being “fair”, “equal”, “impartial”, ”right”, “righteous” or “correct”. What’s involved in achieving that state, and how do we know it when we see it? Join us as we review concepts of justice through history and within the Unitarian Universalist context.
  • 01/15/11, Unitarian Universalist Church of Santa Clarita Valley, Learning Circle: Membership Integration. The path from curious passer-by to engaged, inspired, and committed UUofSCV member is paved with the careful anticipation and support of all those who are already on that path! Please RSVP to Rev. Stefanie by Jan. 9th to participate in this opportunity to strengthen and expand the gift of membership in this religious community.
  • 01/09/11, Unitarian Universalist Church of Santa Clarita Valley, Worship: Holy Habit. Our actions can either prevent or foster our spiritual growth. Start the new year with an exploration of the spiritual dimensions of “habits”. (Followed by a training for Spiritual Reflections Facilitators)
  • 12/19/10, Unitarian Universalist Church of Santa Clarita Valley, Worship: An Intergenerational Winter Holiday Service. Unitarian Universalism recognizes the wisdom and joy of the Jewish celebration of Chanukah, the Pagan celebration of Solstice, and the christian celebration of Christmas! (Third Sunday collection to benefit deBenneville Pines WATERWORKS Campaign)
  • 12/18/10, Malibu, CA, Solstice-by-the-Sea Celebration
  • 12/05/10, Unitarian Universalist Church of Santa Clarita Valley, Forum on Congregational Financial Health
  • 12/05/10, Unitarian Universalist Church of Santa Clarita Valley, Worship: The Soul of Money (Part II of Taboo Talk Series) Money has long been considered a divider of humanity, separating those who have it from those who don’t. It’s also been a means by which to express our highest values and make a difference in the world. Join us as we explore the spiritual side of money.
  • 11/21/10, Unitarian Universalist Church of Santa Clarita Valley, Worship: Creative Maladjustment (A UUSC “Guest at Your Table” service). Adjusting to life’s changing circumstances can be a powerful spiritual path. But what if “adjusting” is part of what’s keeping us, as individuals and as a species, from growing into our highest potential?
  • 11/07/10, Unitarian Universalist Church of Santa Clarita Valley, UU History Orientation
  • 11/07/10, Unitarian Universalist Church of Santa Clarita Valley, Worship: Reclaiming Passionate Moderation (First in the Taboo Talk series). Figuring out what is required of us as a religious people is tough, especially in a world marked by extremist perspectives. What’s the connection between religion and politics? What might the role of Unitarian Universalism be in navigating our freedoms and responsibilities?
  • 10/31/10, South Bay Unitarian Universalist Fellowship, Redondo Beach, Worship: Reclaiming Passionate Moderation
  • 10/27/10, Sepulveda UU Society, North Hills, SVF Cluster Valley Vespers Worship: Back to Basics. On the Protestant Reformation and today’s focus on political reform.
  • 10/24/10, Unitarian Universalist Church of Santa Clarita Valley, Identity Forum
  • 10/10/10, Sydney, Australia, Wedding: Jason Laufer & Robbie Robertson
  • 10/03/10, Unitarian Universalist Church of Santa Clarita Valley, Worship: On Winged Words I Fly
  • 09/29/10, UUMA Retreat, Mary & Joseph Retreat Center, Palos Verdes. Morning Worship
  • 09/26/10, Unitarian Universalist Church of Santa Paula, Worship: On Winged Words I Fly… Giving expression to our deepest thoughts and feelings is a universal yearning. So is being able to wander through the gardens and deserts of each other’s minds and hearts. Language (and technology) can either get in the way, or make it possible! Join us for an exploration of some of the vehicles for human expression.
  • 09/25/10, Sepulveda Unitarian Universalist Society, clergy participant in Memorial Service for Rev. Paul Sawyer (2 pm)
  • 09/19/10, Unitarian Universalist Church of Santa Clarita Valley, Worship: The Geography of Bliss: An Ingathering “Water Communion” Sunday. Join us, as we explore the varied landscapes of “happiness” and celebrate homecoming to this beloved community! Please bring along a few drops of water from a place or time that has inspired your happiness.
  • 09/05/10, Unitarian Universalist Church of Santa Clarita Valley, Worship: Who Am I & Who Are We? The yearning and struggle to figure out who we are as individuals, and as part of a greater whole, are timeless elements of human experience – and they are capable of inspiring a wide range of responses. As we enter into relationship with one another in this new church year, let’s explore the gifts and challenges of identity-building.

September 2009 – August 2010:

  • PSWIRL 2010 (August 23-28). Theme Speaker: “There But For The Grace Of…” With so much pain in the world, how can we move from gratitude (and/or guilt) at our own good fortune – to generous engagement with justice making? If you recognize the first step as “not looking away”, please join us for this inspiring, healing, and empowering exploration of some of the harsher realities of our shared existence.
  • 06/27/10, Unitarian Universalist Church of Verdugo Hills, Worship Associate for Speaker Evan Gerstmann on the subject of Marriage Equality
  • 06/20/10, Unitarian Universalist Church of Verdugo Hills, Worship: A Father of Nations. Bring along a photo or memento of your father (or other important male role model) as we look at the legacy of the man who is said to be the father of Judaism, Christianity and Islam.
  • 06/13/10 Unitarian Universalist Church of Verdugo Hills, Worship: Spirituali-Tease. The quest for spiritual growth and enrichment can seem quite elusive! And yet, most forms of spiritual practice fall into a few basic categories found in various religious traditions. Join us as we take a closer look at these spiritually transformational paths.
  • 06/06/10, First Unitarian Church of Los Angeles, Worship: Spirituali-Tease. The quest for spiritual growth and enrichment can seem quite elusive! And yet, most forms of spiritual practice fall into a few basic categories found in various religious traditions. In the wake of last weekend’s nation-wide immigration reform mobilization in Phoenix, join us as we take a closer look at the relationship between these spiritually transformational paths and what they can mean to us.
  • 05/23/10, Unitarian Universalist Church of Verdugo Hills, Worship: On Winged Words I Fly! Giving expression to our deepest thoughts and feelings is a universal yearning. So is being able to wander through the gardens and deserts of each other’s minds and hearts. Language can either get in the way, or make it possible! Join us on Pentecost Sunday for an exploration of the role of language, and other vehicles for human expression.

This service will be followed by a whirlwind tour of the history that has shaped Unitarian Universalism! (All are welcome!)

  • 05/19/10, Studio City, CA. SVF Cluster Valley Vespers Worship: Redeeming Change. Inspired by an unlikely source, this pastoral homily explores the dichotomy of change: the fact that we fear it, even as we appreciate our ability/responsibility to instigate it. It suggests that there is a relationship between change and redemption, and that the latter is achieved as we learn to link change with compassion, forgiveness, and trust (whether change is thrust upon us, or self-stylized).
  • 05/16/10, Unitarian Universalist Fellowship of Kern County, Bakersfield, Worship: On Winged Words I Fly! Giving expression to our deepest thoughts and feelings is a universal yearning. So is being able to wander through the gardens and deserts of each other’s minds and hearts. Language can either get in the way, or make it possible! Join us for an exploration of the role of language, and other vehicles for human expression.
  • 05/09/10, Unitarian Univeralist Church of Verdugo Hills, Worship: Of Mothers & Others. The faces of motherhood are wide and varied, but the challenges moms face are universal! Bring along a photo or memento of your mother (or anyone who has ever mothered you) for this cross-cultural celebration of motherhood (and of those who make it possible).
  • 04/18/10, Unitarian Universalist Church of Verdugo Hills, Worship: The Home Tree: Earth Day Lessons from Pandora. The ancient Greek story of Pandora explains the existence of evil in the world, as well as why hope seems so inaccessible. As we celebrate the upcoming 40th anniversary of Earth Day, what can James Cameron’s film Avatar, set on the planet Pandora, teach us about evil and hope in relation to our own home planet?

In support of our Worship Library, this service will be followed by an opportunity to review and learn about some of the many resources from which Unitarian Universalists are free to draw. Bring along your favorite book of prose or poetry to share!

  • 04/04/10, Unitarian Univeralist Church of Verdugo Hills, Worship: Yearning for Renewal (Flower Communion). Join us on Easter Sunday, as we explore the ways in which various traditions express their yearning for renewal. This service will include a Flower Communion – so bring along a cut flower to represent the beauty of YOUR yearning!
  • 03/28/10, Unitarian Universalist Church of Verdugo HIlls, Worship: An Eye for an Eye. The death penalty is a time-honored tradition, often defended through religious sacred texts. This service provides insight into various interfaith responses, both pro & con, addressing the cost of the death penalty – both in terms of financial expenditure, and in terms of our collective humanity.
  • 03/27/10, Sepulveda Unitarian Universalist Society, Workshop: SFV Cluster Lay Leaders’ Idea Factory – POSTPONED
  • 03/21/10, Unitarian Universalist Fellowship of Kern County (Bakersfield, CA), Worship: Waging Peace The yearning for peace is political, religious and deeply personal. Join us as we consider what’s involved in reaching for this ideal.
  • 03/14/10, Unitarian Universalist Church of Verdugo Hills, Worship: The Soul of Money. Money has long been considered a divider of humanity, separating those who have it from those who don’t. It’s also been a means by which to express our highest values and make a difference the world (consider the funds raised for UUSC’s relief efforts in Haiti). Join us as we explore the spiritual side of money.
  • 02/28/10, Unitarian Universalist Church of Verdugo Hills, Worship: Celebrating Community. At our December Family Night, a ribbon was tied to one of the booklets of holiday songs passed around. One of our members received that booklet and, as such, won the right to select a sermon topic near and dear to her heart! Don’t miss this creative and collaborative celebration of community.
  • 02/27/10, Unitarian Universalist Church of Santa Paula, PSWD Leadership Day, Two Workshops: The Why, the How, and the What’s If’s of 1. Right Relationship and of 2. Membership Integration
  • 02/17/10, La Cresenta, CA. PSWD San Fernando Valley Cluster Vespers, Worship: Shifting Gears. How might the Christian observance of Lent, and particularly of “sacrifice”, empower us in our individual lives and our communities?
  • 02/14/10, Unitarian Universalist Church of Verdugo Hills, Worship: The G-Word (on God)
  • 02/07/10, Unitarian Universalist Church of Kern County (Bakersfield, CA), Worship: A Happy Coincidence. The desire to experience and share happiness is universal, giving shape to the journey of our lives. But how do we find it, recognize it, and channel it in positive ways when there seem to be so many obstacles?
  • 01/10/10, Unitarian Universalist Church of Verdugo HIlls. Worship: Waging Peace (inspired by the theology of Reinhold Niebuhr and President Obama’s recent acceptance of the Nobel Peace Prize). The yearning for peace is political, religious and deeply personal. Join us as we consider what’s involves in reaching for this ideal.
  • 12/24/09, Unitarian Universalist Church of Verdugo Hills. Worship: Christmas Eve Candlelight Service. Join us for this special evening of music and readings woven together in celebration of love and hope renewed each year through the story of Christmas.
  • 12/20/09, Unitarian Universalist Church of Verdugo Hills. Worship: winter holidays. Unitarian Universalism recognizes the wisdom and joy of the Pagan celebration of Solstice, the Jewish celebration of Chanukah, and the Christian celebration of Christmas!
  • 12/06/09, Unitarian Universalist Church of Verdugo Hills. Learning Circle: This I Believe Forum. Who are you? What experiences have given shape to your life and beliefs? How often do you get to share those stories or hear them from those who sit beside you in our sanctuary? Pick up a This I Believe questionnaire today, and plan to join us for this special opportunity to learn from and grow in appreciation of one another.
  • 12/06/09, Unitarian Universalist Church of Verdugo Hills. Worship: Expecting the Dawn in the Season of Darkness. The winter months can be a challenging time of year, despite or sometimes even because of, the expectation for merry-making. Join us as we gently explore the shadow side of this season, and the wisdom and solace that can be found in its various opportunities for celebration!
  • 11/22/09, Unitarian Universalist Church of Verdugo Hills. Worship: Food, Again? Traditional Thanksgiving feasts were set within the context of long-awaited, hard-won seasonal abundance. How has our relationship to food changed since then? And how can we engage with the Thanksgiving holiday healthfully, ethically and in a spirit of gratitude?
  • 11/08/09, Unitarian Universalist Church of Verdugo Hills. Workshop: Mission Review-Our UU Glue. We know what unites us as Unitarian Universalists – our covenant to affirm and promote the Principles and Purposes created and periodically revised by our member congregations. But what unites us as members of UUCVH? If you answered “our mission”, you’re right! But its ability to unite and guide us into the future depends upon our full understanding and ownership of that mission. So, please join us in the social hall after the worship service, to see what the new UUCVH Mission (crafted by our leadership team and approved by our Board) can mean to you!
  • 11/08/09, Unitarian Universalist Church of Verdugo Hills. Worship: Grandmother’s Counsel. Modern society’s social and environmental ills may well be countered through the wisdom of Native American spirituality. Join us, as we explore stories of hope offered by indigenous women.
  • 10/28/09, Canoga Park, CA. PSWD Valley Vespers. Worship: Enough is Enough (on self-care)
  • 10/25/09, Unitarian Universalist Church of Verdugo Hills, CA. Worship: UU History in a Nutshell. Ever wonder about the connection between Unitarian Universalism and Christianity? Or how it is that there is so much diversity in our congregations? Or where our Principles and Purposes came from? Join us as we explore the gift of UU history in shaping our living tradition
  • 10/18/09, Sepulveda Unitarian Universlist Society, North Hills, CA. Worship: A Happy Coincidence… The desire to experience and share happiness is universal, giving shape to the journey of our lives. But how do we find it, recognize it, and channel it in positive ways when there seem to be so many obstacles?
  • 10/04/09, Unitarian Universalist Church of Verdugo Hills, CA. Worship: The Stories We Tell. Every moment of our lives can be experienced and described in an endless number of ways. What difference does it make what stories we tell?
  • 09/27/09, Unitarian Universalist Church of Verdugo Hills, CA. Workshop: Worship Support
  • 09/27/09, Unitarian Universalist Church of Verdugo Hills, CA. Worship: Getting Real. In Judaic tradition this season marks the beginning of a new year, an opportunity to take stock of where and who we are, and to renew our individual and collective commitments to right relationship. Join us, as we begin a new year of shared ministry together, strengthened through covenant.
  • 09/13/09, Unitarian Universalist Church of Verdugo Hills, CA. Worship: The Geography of Joy (A Water Communion Service). The desire to experience and share happiness is universal, giving shape to the journey of our lives – and it’s often found in the least likely places! Join us as we explore the varied landscapes of happiness and celebrate homecoming to this beloved community. Please bring along a few drops of water from a place that has inspired your happiness.

September 2008 – August 2009

  • 08/28 & 29/09, Sepulveda UU Society, North Hills, CA. 2009-2010 Board Retreat Facilitation
  • 08/10-13/09, Adaptive Leadership Workshop, Boston, MA. Participant.
  • 06/22/09, 3:15 pm. UUMA Good Officers Training, General Assembly, Salt Lake City, UT. (Marriott Hotel, Room: Snowbird). Workshop Panelist: Addiction Recognition and Support. Co-facilitated with Rev. Beth Johnson
  • 06/18/09, 2:00 pm. Step Up On Second, Santa Monica, CA. Human Intimacy Focus Group: On Endings
  • 06/02/09, 6:00 pm. Silvercrest Residence – Salvation Army. Presentation on behalf of Step Up On Second: Community Building
  • 05/31/09, 4:00 pm. UU Fellowship of Laguna Beach. Ordination of Kent Doss: Offering the Right Hand of Fellowship
  • 05/30/09, 7:00 pm. Venice, CA. Ceremony of Union: Allan & Swires
  • 05/26/09, 7:00 pm. West Hollywood, CA. D