Congregation established 1836

Newsletter of the

First Unitarian Church, Alton, Illinois

www.firstuualton.org

Rev. Khleber Van Zandt, Minister

May 4^th

“Faith and Commitment”

Dr. Ronald Glossop, Professor Emeritus, Southern Illinois University at Edwardsville

Christianity, more than most religions, focuses on beliefs.  Do you believe that Jesus is the Son of God?  Do you believe that Jesus was resurrected?  Do you believe that prayers can be answered with miracles?  Do you believe in life-after-death?  Having come out of the Christian tradition, many UUs still tend to view religion as a matter of what one does or doesn't believe.  But shouldn't our religion be focused on our commitments rather than our beliefs?

May 11^th – Mothers’ Day Flower Communion

- an Intergenerational Service -

“Love is the Doctrine of this Church”

Rev. Khleber Van Zandt

In response to a special request, this Mother’s Day we will explore the meaning of love – love as a feeling, love as a biological imperative, love as doctrine of a worshipping community.  This is Flower Communion Sunday, so please consider bringing a few flowers to share during this annual ritual.

May 18^th

“Freely and Responsibly Searching”

Rev. Khleber Van Zandt

Our Fourth Principle says we will “affirm and promote a free and responsible search for truth and meaning.”  How do we know where to look?  How do we even know where to start?  Right here, right now, let’s get going together! .(Please remember the budget meeting after church!)

May 25^th

 “Scratching the Mirror”

Margret O’Neall, ministerial intern, Jefferson Unitarian Church, Golden, Colorado

We find mirrors throughout our lives: the ones that help us get dressed in the morning, the reflections we see of ourselves in the eyes of others, and the ones that reinforce the way we see the world.  Although the mirror is sometimes our honest friend, sometimes our mirrors influence our perceptions in ways that distort our understanding, making us less tolerant of the diversity around us.  Then perhaps it is time to scratch off the silvering and see the world as it really is.

Bio: Margret A. O’Neall is a long-time member of First Unitarian Church of St. Louis, and has served for three years as its Student Minister.  Since 2004, Margret has been studying for the UU ministry at Meadville-Lombard Theological School in Chicago, and on June 30 she will leave her position on the faculty of the Saint Louis University School of Public Health and relocate to Golden, Colorado to serve her ministerial internship at Jefferson Unitarian Church.

May 4 – Non-Theist / Humanist Roundtable discussion on Jerome Stone and Naturalism.

Discussion Leader:  John Herndon.

May 11 – DVD presentation – “Questions of Value”

May 18 – Forum:  Today will be a continuation of the

Discussion on "The Parts of Philosophy" with a focus on ethical theory.  When we have to decide what to do in difficult situations, on what basis can we decide?  There are three general views about things to
take into account.  The deontological view says that there are certain rules to be followed.  The teleological view says that one should consider the probable consequences.  The virtues view says that one should ask yourself, What kind of person would I be if I did
that?  Leader:  Ron Glossop

May 25 – A DVD Series: “From Jesus to Constantine: A History of Early Christianity.” 

Facilitator:  Khleber Van Zandt. 

A First Glance

Jim Elliott was one of the first people I met when I arrived at the Alton church, and I figured out right away that we were going to hit it off because he asks such probing questions.  On his way out of worship one Sunday last month, he issued this challenge, “What could we possibly learn from other faith traditions?”  Somewhat taken aback, I told him I’d think about it and send him an answer.  With his permission, here’s what I sent him recently:

Jim, thanks so much for the question.  When you ask these things of me, I get to stretch in unusual ways, so I appreciate it.

As far as our own UU tradition is concerned, I find it broad and deep enough that simply learning more about what we call “our” history and the flow of “our” ideas could keep me fully engaged over the long haul.

However, I do find wisdom in some of our neighbors’ traditions.  My Trinitarian Christian friends have taught me quite a lot, notably the idea that ‘God in three persons’ is far more about the dance of divinity than about esoteric theological constructions - which seems to me to lead directly to something we might learn from Hindu thought:  the idea that divinity manifests itself in all kinds of ways in all kinds of contexts to all kinds of people.

Jewish tradition is full of the importance of relationship within the family or tribe, which can be problematic, of course, when worked out too literally in the world.  But it can also be indicative that relationship is at the root of identity.  I often tell our UU&You! orientation classes that the Jewish story of the Exodus is foundational for us, too, and gets to the root of who we are:  people too often bound in slavery to one need or another, who find hope through community and the possibility of freedom through divine activity in the world.

And others: from Catholicism, we might learn how to speak to the many mysteries of existence.  From neo-paganism, we might learn to value a deeper connection to the natural world. From the Jains, we might learn to walk more gently on our paths.  From Muslims, we might learn the worth of constant devotion to spiritual practice.  From contemplatives of all stripes, we might learn that the struggle continues even when we sit still for long periods.

All religions are mixtures of tradition, especially ours.  I am optimistic enough to hope we can keep mixing until we get it right, and pessimistic enough to believe that we won’t.  In other words, the journey will be its own reward if we can remain open to it. 

And really, aren’t those the values we say we treasure most highly - open-mindedness and open-heartedness toward others?  (I find us to seldom be as good at it as we like too think, but that’s a whole ‘nother discussion …)

Thanks for the question, and see you in church,

Mark Your Calendars:

       A Quick Guide to this Month’s Happenings

“In Our Own Voice”

National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) Presentation at church hosted by the

Social Justice Committee

All members and friends of the church are encouraged to attend this program.  It will be open to the public. 

When:  Tuesday evening May 20^th at church.

Time:  The Program will be from 6:30 to 8:30 pm.  A light supper will be served from 5:45 to 6:15 pm.

Childcare:  Will be provided – but let us know the number and ages of children coming.

RSVP:  We need to know how many people to plan for.  Either sign up at church or send an email to church@firstuualton.org or leave a message at church 618-462-2462

NOTE:  The NAMI presentation is not appropriate for children who are under the age of 14.  However high school youth are welcome to attend.

NAMI of Madison County http://madisoncty.nami.org is dedicated to improving the lives of individuals and families who are affected by mental illness. 

The program presenters are two trained NAMI members successfully living with mental illness who tell their stories, accompanied by a DVD program.  They will talk about “dark days, acceptance, treatment, coping skills, successes, hopes and dreams.”  There will also be a time for question and answers.

Most of us have someone in our lives – a family member or friend – who has been affected by a mental disorder.  According to statistics from the National Institute of Mental Health, an estimated 26.2 percent of Americans ages 18 and older – about 1 in 4 adults – suffer from a diagnosable mental disorder in any given year.  When applied to current U.S. census numbers this percentage translates to 57.7 million people.  In addition, the main burden of illness is concentrated in a smaller proportion – about 6 percent, or 1 in 17 – who suffer from a serious mental illness (SMI), defined as a diagnosable, persistent mental illness markedly impairing one’s ability to function in social or work situations.

As a caring congregation we need to learn how to minister to individuals and families whose lives are challenged by the effects of mental illness.  This program will help us on that journey.

Are you wondering how to use your talents and skills in service to the church and to the larger community?

On two Sundays in May you’ll have the opportunity to walk around the Kate Wuerker Room and look at displays put up by the various committees to find one (or even two) that look like a match for your interests.

Since 1836 this church has been keep active and vital through the efforts of its volunteers.  Now it’s your chance to take a role in making a difference.

Find Out Where Your Pledge Dollars Go –

Come to a Special All Church Budget Meeting on May 18^th

On May 18^th following church, the Board will host an all-church discussion of the proposed budget for the 2008-2009 fiscal year.  The goal is to give everyone an opportunity to discuss in detail the budget and raise any questions, concerns, or brilliant insights in advance of the Annual Meeting.  The Board will ask church members to vote on the budget at the Annual Meeting, on June 1^st.  The annual meeting, which had been scheduled for May 18^th is moved to June 1^st.  Hopefully, scheduling an extra meeting to discuss the budget will allow a full review and discussion of the budget by members as well as a full discussion of any other matters that come up at the annual meeting. 

The Board anticipates preparing a draft budget at its meeting on May 6^th.  A copy of the proposed budget will be made available to all church members shortly after the Board meeting on May 6^th.

We look forward to seeing everyone after church on May 18^th for a lively and productive discussion.

Chalice Circles

The GLBT Chalice Group will be meeting the 1^st and 3^rd Sundays after church at Eliot Chapel in Kirkwood, MO.   Lunch is at 12:15 pm at Kaldis on Lindbergh, near Eliot Chapel.   The Chalice Group meets at the Chapel from 1:15 to 3:15 pm.   Contact Layne Simpson layne3030@hotmail.comfor more information.

Renegade Women

Saturday, May 17^th – 3 to 5 pm at Church

The Renegade Women Chalice Circle meets at the church from 3-5 pm on the 3^rd Saturday of each month.  Members include women across adulthood and we invite you to explore with us.  For more information contact Marcia Custer; Circle Facilitator mcuster@siue.edu ).

Third Sunday Chalice Circle

Sunday, May 18^th – 11:45 am to 1 pm at

Church

Contact:  Sandy Shaner sarapolarbear@hotmail.com

This is a “general” chalice circle welcoming all.

Parents Seeking Peace Chalice Circle

Sunday, May 18^th – 12:00 to 1:30 pm in Emerson Place at Church

Contact: Diane Thompson at dianeelizabeththompson@gmail.com or

Cheryle Tucker-Loewe at chtucke@siue.edu.

Men's Chalice Circle

Tuesday, May 27^th – 7 pm at Church

Contact: Khleber Van Zandt kvanzandt@uuma.org.

Pagan Group to Celebrate Beltane

The Pagan Group will meet at church on Sunday, May 4^th at 6 pm to celebrate Beltane.   Please bring a dish to share.   Contact Stacey Wolff kartoffel@piasanet.com for more details.

All Men in the Church Invited to the

Men’s Lunch Group

The men’s lunch group will meet on Thursday, May 1^st at the St. Louis Buffet, 672 Wesley Dr., Wood River, IL.  This will be their permanent meeting place from now on.    Contact Nelson Shaner for further details nshaner@charter.net

CRISIS FOOD CENTER DONATIONS

David Blackburn, Executive Director of Crisis Food Center, recently wrote that last year more than 7,000 people in Madison County turned to the Center for food assistance. In 2007 the Center spent $5,000 more each month on food than was spent in 2006. Altogether over $127,000 was spent on food last year. Higher food costs are squeezing all of our food dollars but they are hitting the working poor and elderly on fixed incomes even harder.  Our recent contribution of over 150 food items was appreciated.

As we gather to celebrate spring with family and friends enjoying food and drink let us remember that a donation of $30 will provide food for one family for 4 to 5 days. Thank you for your support and monthly donations that are making a difference.

Jen Politsch

Anna Ds

The Anna Davenport Sparks Women’s Alliance will meet for lunch at “Martha’s Tea Room” 3624 Edwardsville Rd. (Route 143) outside of Edwardsville on Thursday, May 1^{st at} 11:30 am. 

If you plan to attend please let Brynda McCoy wbmccoy@charter.net know by Tuesday, April 29^th.

1. Go to http://www.firstuualton.org
2. On the left side of the screen you will see a list of items – the last in the list being Selected Sermons.  Click on that.
3. A page will come up with a link to “Sermons from church year 2007-2008.”  Click on that.
4. Links to the Sermons and Full Service are listed under the sermon titles by date.  Click on either link for audio.
5. If the sermon title is underlined you can open it as a text file and read the sermon.

^4th Sunday

Sunday Potluck Lunch

May 25^th (Memorial Day Weekend)

Bring a dish to share and plan to stay after church to join in food and fellowship!  If possible please bring a dish that serves at least 6 to 8 people.
With an average attendance of almost 80 people on a Sunday we need to make sure there’s food for everyone.

A-Mc will do Table Set Up

M-Z will do Clean Up

Everyone helps put food out.

Community Outreach Offering

The collection on the 2^nd and 4^th Sundays is given away to charitable causes. The money donated does not include pledge checks or monies otherwise earmarked by the giver.  The Outreach Offering only includes “cash offerings” or checks indicating that they are to be included in the donated funds. 

Both offerings in April were given to the church’s Reserve Fund.

The first offering in May will go to support the peace and justice work of the United Congregations of Metro East (UCM).    http://www.ucmetroeast.org/  Our church is a member of UCM and Mary Lu McManus is our UCM representative.

The second offering in May will go to the Madison County chapter of the National Alliance on Mental Illness. http://madisoncty.nami.org/  Our church will host a presentation by NAMI on May 20.

CARE AND CONCERN

Gene Eaton is back at home recuperating after hip replacement surgery.  He’d welcome cards and emails and visitors (but call first). 

Jenni Nolan O’Dell is recuperating from a serious car accident she was in on February 26.  Hopefully she’ll be able to transition to crutches soon.  Cards would be appreciated.

Corinne Hawkins fell and severely dislocated her shoulder and is unable to drive or use her arm.  Cards and company are welcome. 

Please contact your Pastoral Care Team Leader or Rev. Khleber Van Zandt if there are concerns that need to be brought to their attention.

CHOIR PRACTICE SCHEDULE

Several members of our choir participated in musical events during the Central Midwest District’s Annual Assembly on April 25 - 27. 

You don’t have to be able to attend each choir practice to join the choir.  Practice is held at 7 pm on the 1^st and 3^rd Thursdays of each month and at 12 noon on the 2^nd and 4^th Sundays of each month.

May Rehearsals:

Thurs., May 1^st

Sun., May 11^th

Thurs., May 15^th

Sun., May 25^th

Contact Willis McCoy for further information.

wbmccoy@charter.net

Happy Birthday

Most people enjoy getting a card or email or phone call on their birthday.  Below is the list of church members and friends celebrating birthdays this month.  If you don’t think the church office has your birthday on file, please contact Becky Green (church@firstuualton.org) and give her that information.

  1 May – Patrick Rebmann

  9 May – Andrea Gross (1999)

  9 May – Nancy Sakalauski

11 May – Diane Thompson

12 May – Marcia Salisbury

13 May – Mark Tade

14 May – Khleber Van Zandt

15 May – Erin Fry

16 May – Rose Hoshiko

18 May – Dee Smith

26 May – Audrey Wiseman

28 May – Willis McCoy

28 May – Mark Antieau

31 May – Davona Paul 

A UU Elevator speech

What you'd say when you're going from the sixth floor to the lobby and somebody asks you, 'What's a Unitarian Universalist?'

What is Unitarian-Universalism?  I would say it is a religion that allows each of us to travel on our own spiritual journey.  It is a religion that gives us the freedom to make our own choices, while drawing from many different teachings throughout history.  At the core of the religion is the inherent worth of every person.  Inherent worth drives a thirst for economic and social justice, civil rights, and an equal voice.  We focus on the positive impact we can have on the world in the limited time we have here.  Ted Loucks

News from the St. Louis Area Unitarian Universalist Council (SLAUUC)

SLAUUC will have its quarterly meeting at our church on Saturday May 31^st from 10 am to 1 pm.  Jim Moore is our church’s representative to SLAUUC and serves as the SLAUUC Secretary.  Anyone is welcome to attend the SLAUUC meetings.

The agenda items to be reviewed during the meeting will include:

1. Establishment of a UU Legislative Advocacy Ministry in Missouri. Several members of the All Souls UU Church in Kansas City are spearheading an effort to establish a UU lobbying interest in Jefferson City to influence policy and policy makers and to change unjust laws and social structures that are a cause of suffering. Jefferson City Fellowship is a member of the St. Louis Area Council.  A separate effort would have to be taken for the state of Illinois. For the state of Missouri there are at least 3 different Area Councils that would need to cooperate to bring this about.  There are UU Legislative Advocacy Ministries organized in other states such as Maryland and Florida that can be used as blue prints.

2. A program in support of backing Planned Parenthood and the Our Whole Lives (OWL) curriculum across the Council Area lead by Krista Taves and Devry Becker is to be discussed.
3. How can the Area Council be effective in PR efforts towards educating the public as to what UU can do for you?
4. An Area Council Web-site is being planned.

RE NEWS

Dear Parents and Friends,

Why should anyone teach Religious Education?  This question has plagued RE directors for years.  The top-answers as posted to the email list for Religious Educators is as follows:

10.       Because lying in bed, reading the Sunday paper is just not my idea of a good time!

9.         Your class will paint any room in your house if you let them have a lock-in.

8.         If I came to church and sat around playing with clay and paint without the kids, people would look at me funny.

7.         I get up early anyway - You know, since Saturday Night Live went downhill; there just isn't any reason to stay up late.

6.         UU guilt rules my life.

5.         Because it's not anything like a committee meeting.

4.         I do it for the snacks.

3.         Teaching Sunday School isn't beneath Jimmy Carter, and he was the president.

2.         Because, as the Church Lady says, "It's just so special."

1.         And the Number 1 reason why someone would want to be an RE teacher ... Karma Kredit!

Thank you and I hope to see you all at the Volunteer Faire on May 4^th and 11^th.

Thank you, Jamie Gross, DRE

Your Opportunity to Join in a Community Service Project

On May 17^th you can join others from our church in helping to paint the house of someone who needs help in maintaining the appearance of their home.

Kevin McCarthy has volunteered to be the Team Captain from our church to coordinate our efforts.  We need more people to volunteer to serve on our painting team.  Please contact Kevin at dissimilator@gmail.com or sign up at church to work on this community improvement project.  We need to know how many volunteers we’ll have by May 1^st.

The Bucket Brigade, co-sponsored by Pride, Inc., The Telegraph and Brod-Dugan/Sherwin Williams has been painting homes for area residents since 1988.  The program matches volunteer teams with homeowners who are no longer able to maintain their homes without assistance.  In order to qualify for the program, homes must be one-story, owner occupied residences.  Most of the homeowners that benefit from this program are seniors who simply cannot handle such a huge job alone.  Other recipients are those with physical or financial limitations that prevent them from doing the work. Volunteer teams complete the painting at no cost to the homeowner.

Church Youth Enjoy YouthCon

a.k.a. LepreCON!

Five teenagers and 3 adults from our church joined 250 other  UU youth and advisors at the spring LepreCON in Allerton, IL hosted by the UU Church of Urbana.  Our group went on a bus rented by the four St. Louis area UU churches.  The focus of this CON was the environment.  The kids joined in workshops, hiking, birding, worship, dancing, and some stayed up all night.  Erin Herndon says “The thing I liked most about the YouthCon was how easily it was to make friends and how close you get with those friends.  I believe I am closer with those people who I have met at those Cons than I am with some people at school whom I have known since I was in first grade.”  Alex Hoeft says “I took Tai Chi, made robots using Lego MindStorm, and played soccer.  I made new friends (but it’s difficult to remember all their names) and stayed up late.”