This morning, Alexis continued our month of reflections on Awe with a story from the Hebrew Bible: the story of Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego in the Fiery Furnace (Daniel, chapter 3).  Faced with the glorious spectacle of an occupying empire and even with the full threat of its violence, these characters still remained true to their own convictions about what should command their awe and worship.  A fictional story written at a time when such conflicts were all too real, it reveals some Jews of that era lifting up nonviolent resistance.  Most of us thankfully don't face death by fiery furnace, but even today, governments try to instill awe with their violence.  Especially at this time of year, our culture and industry seek to awe us with their glamour and spectacle.  But each of us has a truth within us that power can't control.  What really lifts you up and strengthens you?  What helps you live with compassion?  What gives you hope, and inspires you to be an agent of hope?  How can you stand firm and uplift what is truly awesome for you?

Next Sunday, December 15th:

Adult Forum - 9:15 am
"RYLA (Rotary Youth Leadership Awards)," Nick Rackers
Rackers will describe free leadership training for qualifying high school students. Do you know any high school students who might benefit?

Service and Religious Education - 10:30 am
Message: Nancy TannerThies
If you have a joy or concern that you would like to have read during the Service, please submit it by noon on Friday through our website: http://uufjc.org/joys--concerns.html

Plus Children's RE --- "The GooseBumps that Arise When We Stare at the Stars"

"This I Believe" - 2 pm
RESCHEDULED DUE TO WEATHER - Now meeting December 29th, 2 pm
One of our ongoing small group gatherings.  This month's theme: "Awe."  Participants will learn from one another by sharing stories from their lives in a variety of ways. No ongoing commitment is required.  For more information or to RSVP, contact Alexis at [email protected].

UUFJC News and Events this week:

Our special year-end service, "An Evening of Community and Hope," is fast approaching, Monday, December 30th at 6:30 pm.  The service will offer reflection and encouragement.  A special collection for ongoing tornado relief efforts will be taken.  Childcare will be provided.  Open to the community --- please spread the word and invite others!  For more information, contact  Alexis at [email protected].

We also have a holiday tree on display again this year, in the sanctuary near the piano.  All are invited to bring ornaments to add to the tree and make its decorations a reflection of our Fellowship community.  The tree will remain on display until December 29th.  For more information, contact Patt Behler.

And as a holiday fundraiser for the Fellowship, we have two raffle baskets now on display near the cafe bar, filled with wine and treats for holiday entertaining or just for treating yourself.  The drawing will be held in two weeks, on Sunday, December 22nd, so don't wait!  For tickets and more information, contact Carol Bontempo.

Planning has begun for our annual Chili Supper, coming Saturday, February 8th, 2020.  We are seeking chili-makers and other chefs, live music, games, silent auction and raffle items, and more!  To get involved, please contact Bob Antweiler or Alberta Mobley.

This Tuesday, December 10th at 7 pm, Patt Behler is hosting an informal discussion at her home for UUFJC members and friends.  The topic: “Creativity.”  Contact Patt for more information.

This Friday, December 15th starting at 6:30 pm, our building is reserved for a special service planning session.  Contact Alexis.

Community Events this week:

This Wednesday through Saturday, December 11th - 14th, Scene One Theatre presents "Short Attention Span Theatre 11: The Holiday Season," an evening of original 10-minute plays.  Shows at 7:30 pm each evening, plus a 2 pm matinee Saturday.  For tickets and more information, visit sceneonetheatre.com.

This week, Capitol City Cinema presents "The Lighthouse" (Thursday through Sunday) and "It's A Wonderful Life" (Sunday only).  For showtimes, more events, and more information, visit capitolcitycinema.org.

For yoga and even more events, see our online calendars:

UUFJC Events
Affiliated Events 
Religious Education
Building Use (other)
Community Events  

Have a great week!

This morning, Rev. Mike Adamek began our month of reflections on "Attention" with a message he described thus:

"Ralph Waldo Emerson was a master at focusing our attention on what was worthy in a life well lived.  We must celebrate the miracles in the mundane if we have ears to hear and eyes to see."

A good reminder that the wisdom of mindfulness and attention has deep roots in our UU faith.

This month also marks 20 years Rev. Mike has been bringing us monthly messages at UUFJC!  Many thanks to Rev. Mike for all he's done for us and for all the blessings of our years together!

Next Sunday, November 10th:

Adult Forum - 9:15 am
"Environmental Journalism," Tina Cassagrand
Jefferson City publisher Tina Cassagrand will discuss how she is bringing together environmental journalists.

Service and Religious Education - 10:30 am
Message: To Be Announced
If you have a joy or concern that you would like to have read during the Service, please submit it by noon on Friday through our website: http://uufjc.org/joys--concerns.html

Plus Children's RE --- "Attention to the Needs of Others: The Practice of Helping"

UUFJC News and Events this week:

If you brought pictures or mementos for our Day of the Dead altar, thank you.  Those items are ready to be returned to you. Contact Bob Boldt for more information.

This Thursday, November 7th, the local chapter of Moms Demand Action for Gun Sense in America meets in our building at 7 pm.  Contact Susan Randolph.

This Friday, November 8th, our building is reserved for a private recital from 6:30 to 8 pm.  Contact Charlotte Parsons.

Next Sunday, November 10th, our Worship Service Committee meets at 6 pm (some versions of the November calendar list a different time, but 6 pm is correct).  To get involved in creating our Sunday services, contact our Vice President, Lisa Sanning.

And a week from tomorrow, on Monday, November 11th at 6:30 pm is the second session of our UU Ethics small group.  For more information, see our November newsletter or contact Alexis at [email protected].

Community Events this week:

Starting this week Scene One Theatre presents "Tales from the Rough Writers" (Thursday through Saturday).  For tickets, showtimes, and more information, visit sceneonetheatre.com

This week, Capitol City Cinema presents "Judy" (Thursday through Sunday).  For showtimes, more events, and more information, visit capitolcitycinema.org.

For yoga and even more events, see our online calendars:

UUFJC Events
Affiliated Events 
Religious Education
Building Use (other)
Community Events  

Have a great week!

Our November Newsletter and Print Calendar are now ready.  Paper copies are available at the Fellowship, and electronic copies are available to view or download:
Newsletter
Calendar

This morning, Alexis joined us to conclude our month of reflections on Belonging.  When asked what makes them feel like they belong, people name things like "feeling like I've met 'my people'," "feeling safe," "feeling heard."  These things are gifts, but without intention and balance, we can keep ourselves comfortable and hold off the vital work of transformation.  Alexis cited Buddhist author Pema Chodron's book, "Welcoming the Unwelcome," in which she describes an awakened heart as a "wish to be free from what gets in the way of helping others."  For this we must become mindful --- mindful of the identities and spaces that define where we feel we belong, mindful of the places where we are shielding ourselves from the vulnerability that awakening and welcoming call us into.  We don't have to push ourselves to the point of excessive risk, but we are called to push beyond comfort into the zone of learning.  Try asking yourself: "What might I do to help others feel belonging?  Why might it be hard?"  If we can stay present with ourselves and each other through the challenges of learning, we can both belong and transform, and make our UU spaces both safe and brave.

Next Sunday, November 3rd:

Daylight Saving Time Ends.
Remember to set your clocks back Saturday night!

Adult Forum - 9:15 am
"Is Manned Space Travel Impossible?" Bob Boldt

Service and Religious Education - 10:30 am
Message: "Tathata and the Divinity School Address," Rev. Mike Adamek
Ralph Waldo Emerson was a master at focusing our attention on what was worthy in a life well lived.  We must celebrate the miracles in the mundane if we have ears to hear and eyes to see.
If you have a joy or concern that you would like to have read during the Service, please submit it by noon on Friday through our website: http://uufjc.org/joys--concerns.html

Plus Children's RE --- "Attention to our Inner Self: The Practice of Prayer"

UUFJC News and Events this week:

Bob Boldt is organizing our annual Day of the Dead altar and observance.  Please bring pictures or mementos of passed loved ones from now until October 31st to be displayed on the altar.  Items may be left in the clear plastic box near the cafe bar and will be returned by November 4th.  Contact Bob for more information.

Tomorrow, Monday, October 28th at 6:30 pm is the first session of our UU Ethics small group.  Participants in this small group explore their values and consider their stances on ethical issues. Important Note: This is a space to learn together and grow, not a space for arguments or debate. While no ongoing commitment is required, regular attendance may be helpful.  For more information, contact Alexis at [email protected].

Also tomorrow evening, Monday, October 28th at 6:30 pm, Faith Voices for Jefferson City holds its monthly assembly at Quinn Chapel AME Church.  This month's program will offer information on low-income housing programs, discussions on challenges, and testimony from those impacted by the lack of affordable and safe housing in Jefferson City.  Contact Rev. Kim Woodruff: [email protected]

Our UUA Region, MidAmerica, is presenting several webinars this week: This Tuesday, October 29th at 6:45 pm will be a webinar on “Ritual of Healing and Recharging,” and this Tuesday and Wednesday, October 29th and 30th at 6:30 pm will be a pair of webinars on “Faith Development in Smaller UU Communities.”  For more information and videos of past webinars, visit the MidAmerica UUA website:  www.uua.org/midamerica/events/webinars

Next Sunday, November 3rd, the Art Committee will be holding an open house starting at 2:30 pm.  All are welcome to come enjoy our current exhibit, a retrospective by Patt Behler, plus an Art Talk on Printmaking at 3 pm, free donated art supplies, and more.  Contact Patt Behler.

Later next Sunday, November 3rd, our building is reserved by a community group starting at 6:30 pm.  Please allow privacy.

Community Events this week:

This Tuesday, October 29th at 6:30 pm in their Art Gallery, Missouri River Regional Library presents: "The Climate for Change is Now."  You are invited to a showing of "Paris to Pittsburgh," produced by National Geographic Films. This film brings to life the efforts of individuals who are battling the most severe effects of climate change in their own back yards. It captures the urgency of the issue and the inspiring ways Americans are responding. The library is co-sponsoring this showing with the local branch of Citizens Climate Lobby, a group that empowers everyday people to work together on climate change solutions.  Contact Madeline Matson.  For more library events, visit MRRL.org.

This Friday, November 1st at 7 pm in their Art Gallery, MRRL presents their monthly First Friday Film: "The White Crow.".  This film traces Rudolf Nureyev's poverty-stricken childhood in the Soviet city of Ufa, to his blossoming as a student dancer in Leningrad, to his arrival at the epicenter of western culture in Paris in the early 1960s and a nail-biting defection to the West. It's the true story of an incredible journey by a unique artist who transformed the world of ballet forever.  Contact Madeline Matson.  For more library events, visit MRRL.org. 

This week, Capitol City Cinema presents "Judy" (Thursday through Sunday).  For showtimes, more events, and more information, visit capitolcitycinema.org.

For yoga and even more events, see our online calendars:

UUFJC Events
Affiliated Events 
Religious Education
Building Use (other)
Community Events  

Have a great week!

This morning, Rev. Nancy TannerThies continued our month of exploring Belonging with a paradox: the more deeply we understand ourselves, the more we can widen our circles of belonging and welcome.  Citing John O'Donohue, Nancy argued that belonging is vital to being human, that it brings together both our being, our living and passionate presence, and our longing for something beyond ourselves.  She also shared author Brene Brown's guideposts to belonging:

• It's hard to hate close up --- Move in.
• Speak truth to b***s*** --- But be civil.
• Hold hands --- With strangers.
• And keep a Strong Back, Soft Front, Wild Heart.

We need deep self-awareness to be our authentic selves with others and to confront our fears about them.  How can we both speak our truth and invite others in?

Next Sunday, October 27th:

Adult Forum - 9:15 am
"The Food Bank," Jami Wade
The Food Bank for Central & Northeast Missouri is one of the few nationwide to provide food at no cost.  Jami Wade has assumed regional responsibilities for this organization.

Service and Religious Education - 10:30 am
Message: "Belonging, Becoming, and Welcoming," Alexis
This morning, we'll explore the gift of being in a space that feels comfortable and consider what happens when that space and the people in it evolves.
If you have a joy or concern that you would like to have read during the Service, please submit it by noon on Friday through our website: http://uufjc.org/joys--concerns.html

Plus Children's RE --- "Belonging to Big Things: the Practice of Opening to the Interdependent Web"

UUFJC News and Events this week:

Bob Boldt is organizing our annual Day of the Dead altar and observance.  Please bring pictures or mementos of passed loved ones from now until October 31st to be displayed on the altar.  Items may be left in the clear plastic box near the cafe bar and will be returned by November 4th.  Contact Bob for more information.

Tomorrow, Monday, October 21st, our building is reserved by a community group starting at 6:30 pm.  Please allow privacy.

This Friday, October 25th is our monthly Salvation Army Meal.  Contact Roberta Dunkel or Bob Antweiler if you can help provide and serve food for those in need.  Serving begins at 5 pm; please arrive early to help prepare.

And a week from tomorrow, on Monday, October 28th at 6:30 pm is the first session of our UU Ethics small group.  Participants in this small group explore their values and consider their stances on ethical issues. Important Note: This is a space to learn together and grow, not a space for arguments or debate. While no ongoing commitment is required, regular attendance may be helpful.
To sign up, please follow this link: https://forms.gle/K8Xvm32pPe23jFbQ6
For more about small groups, contact Alexis at [email protected].

Community Events this week:

Tomorrow, Monday, October 21st at 7 pm in their Art Gallery, Missouri River Regional Library presents Music in the Library with Claude Bourbon.  Bourbon lives in England and is known throughout Europe and America for his amazing guitar performances. He regularly tours in America and has shared the state with countless musicians in many venues. His music is a mélange of folk, blues, classical, and Spanish influences.  Contact Madeline Matson.  For more library events, visit MRRL.org.

This Friday, October 25th is the 14th Annual Evening Rotary Spaghetti Dinner from 4:30 to 7 pm at Grace Episcopal Church (217 Adams St).  Proceeds benefit local and international service projects.  Adults - $10, Youth (6-12) - $5, Kids 5 and under - Free.  Carry-Out Available.  Plus raffle tickets for chances to win a variety of prizes!  Menu includes Spaghetti with Homemade Italian Spaghetti Sauce, Tossed Green Salad with Parmesan Cheese, Crusty French Bread, Pies and Desserts, and Iced Tea.  Contact Frank Rycyk for more information.

This week, Capitol City Cinema presents "Official Secrets" (Thursday through Sunday).  For showtimes, more events, and more information, visit capitolcitycinema.org.

For yoga and even more events, see our online calendars:

UUFJC Events
Affiliated Events 
Religious Education
Building Use (other)
Community Events  

Have a great week!

This morning, our Religious Education Team led us in an intergenerational and participatory exploration of our monthly theme, Belonging.  Those present were asked to list words that captured a sense of belonging for them -- things like being safe, being accepted, being one's true self -- and the list we produced had a lot in common with a list the RE students had created earlier, and both had a clear harmony with our UU Principles.  We were then asked to consider the spheres in which we each belong -- from family to organizations to our identities and our world.  What responsibilities do we have to each group?  What does each one give to us?  Where are we stretching ourselves too far?  Where could we engage more?

Next Sunday, October 20th:

Newsletter Submissions Due.
Please submit your items for our November newsletter and print calendar to Laura Gilkey by e-mail ([email protected]) or in writing.

Adult Forum - 9:15 am
"TEA," Bob Boldt

Service and Religious Education - 10:30 am
Message: Rev. Nancy TannerThies
If you have a joy or concern that you would like to have read during the Service, please submit it by noon on Friday through our website: http://uufjc.org/joys--concerns.html

Plus Children's RE --- "Belonging and Not Belonging: the Practice of Finding the Courage to Leave"

Afternoon Small Group - 2 - 4 pm
"This I Believe" Theme: Belonging
Participants will learn from one another by sharing stories from their lives in a variety of ways. We will use the themes from Soul Matters as our starting point. The number of participants can vary. No ongoing commitment is required.
To sign up, please follow this link: https://forms.gle/jQ6xRqD7U8Y6BEns5
Contact Alexis at [email protected].

UUFJC News and Events this week:

Bob Boldt is organizing our annual Day of the Dead altar and observance.  Please bring pictures or mementos of passed loved ones from now until October 31st to be displayed on the altar.  Items may be left in the clear plastic box near the cafe bar and will be returned by November 4th.  Contact Bob for more information.

This Tuesday, October 15th at 6:45 pm, MidAmerica UUA presents a webinar on “Working with Anxiety.”  For more information and events, including recordings of past webinars, check the MidAmerica UUA website: https://www.uua.org/midamerica/events/webinars

This Friday, October 18th is Project Homeless Connect.  UUFJC is supporting this annual event to connect those struggling with homelessness with information and services.
Sign up to volunteer: https://signup.com/go/xgOuiEZ
E-mail: [email protected]
Call: (573) 635-6886
Or contact Patt Behler or Sheila Murphy.
The UUFJC Board meets next Sunday, October 20th, at 6 pm.  All are welcome to attend our board meetings.  Contact our President, Katherine Connor.

Community Events this week:

This Wednesday, October 16th at 7 pm in their Art Gallery, Missouri River Regional Library presents "Reel Life Cinema: Mantra."  This documentary explores the growing musical and social phenomenon of chanting and shares the stories of people from all walks of life and from all over the world who are finding healing and a sense of inner peace by singing mantras together. It shows that chanting can have beneficial effects on the brain and in turn on practitioners’ well-being.  Contact Madeline Matson.  For more library events, visit MRRL.org.

This Friday, October 18th, in the afternoon at Central Bank (111 E Miller St) is a free Suicide Prevention Workshop: What Everyone Needs to Know about Access to Lethal Means.  2 pm to 3:30 pm program with 3:30 - 5 pm allotted for small group discussion, concerns, effectively listening role play and solutions.  Refreshments will be served.  For more information contact: 573-616-1702.  Offered by: The Ash Street Block Club Association, Safer Homes Collaborative, MOMS (Jefferson City Moms Demand Action for Gun Sense in America), NAACP Jefferson City Chapter, Central Bank, Hy-Vee, Gerbes, Gray Axis, and others.

This Saturday morning, October 19th in their Art Gallery, MRRL offers two presentations on Guns and Safety:

• Be SMART—Five Steps to Keep Children and Teens Safe from Gun Injury and Death
• 9:30-10am
• Kids will be kids. They won’t always make smart decisions about their own safety. Always assume that curious or impulsive kids may find and touch an unsecure gun, even if they’ve been told not to. The Be SMART campaign focuses on education about child gun deaths and responsible gun storage. Moms Demand Action volunteers, Freda McKee and Barbara Reading, will encourage parents to Be SMART and practice five steps to help prevent shootings by children.
• CALM—Conversations on Access to Lethal Means
• 10-11:30am
• Firearms are the most lethal means used in a suicide attempt. The Safer Homes Collaborative presents CALM, a suicide prevention training developed for all audiences. CALM informs participants of the role they can play in preventing suicide by reducing access to lethal means, including firearms, teaches how to identify and talk to someone who may be at risk of suicide, and provides options to encourage safer storage of lethal means as a way to prevent tragedy. Kurt Dudenhoeffer and Joshua Evans will co-present the training, which is not anti-gun but rather anti-suicide.
• Contact Madeline Matson.
• For more library events, visit MRRL.org.

This week, Capitol City Cinema presents "Official Secrets" (Thursday through Sunday) and a special In the Park After Dark showing of "Hocus Pocus" (Saturday only).  For showtimes, more events, and more information, visit capitolcitycinema.org.

For yoga and even more events, see our online calendars:

UUFJC Events
Affiliated Events 
Religious Education
Building Use (other)
Community Events  

Have a great week!

This morning, Rev. Mike Adamek joined us again to begin our month of reflections on Belonging.  As Mike described his message, "Many Hands Make Light Work,"

"Hard to belong when you are observing from a distance.  Hard to belong when you will only join with others when they must follow your directions alone.   Belonging is easier when you share meaningful tasks that make a difference in your life and in other people’s lives.  Belonging is a function of contributing to worthwhile tasks together. What is it you will share?"

Next Sunday, October 13th:

Adult Forum - 9:15 am
"Brexit," Frank Rycyk
The complexity of the various entities which make up a government without a constitution will be addressed.  Forum attendees are invited to bring in information about why many want to leave the European Union.

Service and Religious Education - 10:30 am
Message: To Be Announced
If you have a joy or concern that you would like to have read during the Service, please submit it by noon on Friday through our website: http://uufjc.org/joys--concerns.html

Plus Children's RE --- "Belonging to Yourself: the Practice of Knowing Who You Are"

UUFJC News and Events this week:

Next Sunday, October 13th, our Worship Service Committee meets at 6 pm.  To get involved in creating our Sunday services, contact our Vice President, Lisa Sanning.

All are invited to our upcoming small group opportunities:

• This I Believe: Participants will learn from one another by sharing stories from their lives in a variety of ways. We will use the themes from Soul Matters as our starting point. The number of participants can vary. No ongoing commitment is required.
• First meeting: Sunday, October 20 from 2-4 PM on the theme of Belonging.
• Other dates (the time remains the same): Nov. 17 and Dec. 15
• To sign up, please follow this link: https://forms.gle/jQ6xRqD7U8Y6BEns5
• Unitarian Universalist Ethics: Participants in this small group explore their values and consider their stances on ethical issues. Important Note: This is a space to learn together and grow, not a space for arguments or debate. While no ongoing commitment is required, regular attendance may be helpful.
• First meeting: Monday, October 28 from 6:30-8PM
• Other dates (the time remains the same): Nov. 11 and Dec. 9
• To sign up, please follow this link: https://forms.gle/K8Xvm32pPe23jFbQ6
• If you know of someone or a few someone's who might be interested in such groups but are not involved in UUFJC, please do let them know they are invited as well.
• For more about small groups, contact Alexis at [email protected].

This Thursday, October 10th, the local chapter of the American Association of University Women meets in our building at 7 pm.  This month's program: "Advocacy and Action in Public Policy," presented by Kay Meyer, MO State Board President and Pat Shores, MO Public Policy Legislative Action Coordinator.  Contact Charlotte Parsons.

This Friday, October 11th, Mid-Missouri Traditional Dancers will hold an English Country Dance in our building.  Setup at 6:30 pm, dance at 7 pm.  Contact Jan Harcourt.

Community Events this week:

This week, Capitol City Cinema presents "ZZ Top" (Thursday through Sunday).  For showtimes, more events, and more information, visit capitolcitycinema.org.

For yoga and even more events, see our online calendars:

UUFJC Events
Affiliated Events 
Religious Education
Building Use (other)
Community Events  

Have a great week!

This morning, our own Alexis helped us conclude our month of reflection on Expectations.  We organize our lives into stories, she explained, where we are the main characters and we think we know how and where things are going, but what if we don't know?  What if we open ourselves to the views of others, even when they shake up our plotlines and expectations?  Alexis shared John Caputo's theology of "Perhaps," This is not, Caputo emphasizes, "the safety of indecision," but a radical risk.  "Perhaps" has a way of shaking things up --- it says yes to a future that includes uncomfortable change, but at the same time it moves us toward greater possibilities.  Even when we don't see ideals like Justice, Compassion, and Peace in our world, "Perhaps" tells us that they can be real and draws us to participate in making them real.

Next Sunday begins our new theme for October: Belonging.

Next Sunday, October 6th:

Adult Forum - 9:15 am
"9/11," Bob Boldt

Service and Religious Education - 10:30 am
Message: "Many Hands Make Light Work," Rev. Mike Adamek
Hard to belong when you are observing from a distance.  Hard to belong when you will only join with others when they must follow your directions alone.   Belonging is easier when you share meaningful tasks that make a difference in your life and in other people’s lives.  Belonging is a function of contributing to worthwhile tasks together. What is it you will share?
If you have a joy or concern that you would like to have read during the Service, please submit it by noon on Friday through our website: http://uufjc.org/joys--concerns.html

Plus Children's RE --- "Belonging to a History: the practice of making sure no one gets left out of the story."

UUFJC News and Events this week:

Our October newsletter and print calendar are ready.  Paper copies are available at the Fellowship in the box on the table near the coat rack.  Electronic copies are now available to view or download: Newsletter, Calendar.

All are invited to our upcoming small group opportunities:

• This I Believe: Participants will learn from one another by sharing stories from their lives in a variety of ways. We will use the themes from Soul Matters as our starting point. The number of participants can vary. No ongoing commitment is required.
• First meeting: Sunday, October 20 from 2-4 PM on the theme of Belonging.
• Other dates (the time remains the same): Nov. 17 and Dec. 15
• To sign up, please follow this link: https://forms.gle/jQ6xRqD7U8Y6BEns5
• Unitarian Universalist Ethics: Participants in this small group explore their values and consider their stances on ethical issues. Important Note: This is a space to learn together and grow, not a space for arguments or debate. While no ongoing commitment is required, regular attendance may be helpful.
• First meeting: Monday, October 28 from 6:30-8PM
• Other dates (the time remains the same): Nov. 11 and Dec. 9
• To sign up, please follow this link: https://forms.gle/K8Xvm32pPe23jFbQ6
• If you know of someone or a few someone's who might be interested in such groups but are not involved in UUFJC, please do let them know they are invited as well.
• For more about small groups, contact Alexis at [email protected].

This Thursday, October 3rd, at 7 pm in Lincoln University's Young Hall room 300, Capital Area Interfaith Alliance will present a special program about the Jefferson City Diocese’s interfaith work in social ministry, presented by Dan Lester, Executive Director of Catholic Charities of Central and Northern Missouri and Diocesan Director, Catholic Campaign for Human Development.  The program will illustrate how their social ministries are serving all faiths, plus time for Q&A.  For more information, see Frank Rycyk.

Also this Thursday, October 3rd at 7 pm, the local chapter of Moms Demand Action for Gun Sense in America meets in our building.  Contact Susan Randolph.

Next Sunday, October 6th, the Art Committee will be holding an open house from 2:30 to 4:30 pm.  All are welcome to come enjoy our current exhibit, plus a talk on Figure Drawing at 3 pm and a donated art supply exchange.  For more information, contact Patt Behler.

Later next Sunday, October 6th, our building is reserved by a community group starting at 6:30 pm.  Please allow privacy.

Community Events this week:

This Tuesday, October 1st at 7 pm in their Art Gallery, Missouri River Regional Library hosts an installment of the LU-MRRL Lecture Series: "Cursed! Archaeology & Mummy Curses."  Mummies have fascinated the public for centuries due in large part to ideas concerning the curses associated with them. Join Dr. Christine E. Boston, assistant professor of anthropology and sociology, as she explores the origins, realities, and falsehoods of the ideas of mummies, curses, and the real and imagined dangers in archaeology.  Contact Madeline Matson.  For more library events, visit MRRL.org.

This Friday, October 4th at 7 pm in their Art Gallery, MRRL presents their First Friday Film.  This month's selection: "Tolkien."  This film covers the formative years of renowned author J.R.R. Tolkien as he finds friendship, courage and motivation among a group of fellow outcasts at school. Their bond strengthens as they mature, until the outbreak of World War II, which threatens to tear the fellowship apart. Tolkien’s early life experiences later inspired him to write his famous Middle-earth novels.  Contact Madeline Matson.  For more library events, visit MRRL.org.

This week, Capitol City Cinema presents "ZZ Top" (Thursday through Sunday).  For showtimes, more events, and more information, visit capitolcitycinema.org.

For yoga and even more events, see our online calendars:

UUFJC Events
Affiliated Events 
Religious Education
Building Use (other)
Community Events  

Have a great week!

This morning, Rev. Nancy TannerThies continued our month of reflection on Expectation.  Often we hear --- or perhaps say --- the words "Well, what did you expect?" when something doesn't turn out so well.  Looking to our knowledge of the past, we may see limitations as obvious and give up on the chances of a different and better future.  But Rev. Nancy reminded us that there is something in us, a "divine spark" perhaps, that can have a hand in shaping the future, our own expectations, and those of others.  We are too interconnected to decide the future by ourselves, but, in the words of Thoreau, we must "reawaken and keep ourselves awake," and never give up the "expectation of the dawn."  If we stay willing to learn and redefine ourselves, open to future possibilities, then we can become responsible participants in the ongoing creation of our shared life.

Next Sunday, September 22nd:

October News Due.
Please submit your items for our October newsletter and print calendar to Laura Gilkey by e-mail ([email protected]) or in writing.

Adult Forum - 9:15 am
"What is Global Dimming?" Bob Boldt

Service and Religious Education - 10:30 am
Message: To Be Announced
If you have a joy or concern that you would like to have read during the Service, please submit it by noon on Friday through our website: http://uufjc.org/joys--concerns.html

Plus Children's RE --- "The Power of Cooperation"

UUFJC News and Events this week:

We in the process of updating our Members and Friends Directory.  The Administrator, Laura Gilkey, may e-mail you or approach you to confirm your contact information and whether you wish to be listed.  You can update, add, or remove your directory information at any time by contacting Laura at [email protected].

Starting this week, our small group ministry coordinator, Alexis, is offering community office hours.  For more information, contact Alexis at [email protected].

Tomorrow, Monday, September 16th, our building is reserved by a community group starting at 6:30 pm.  Please allow privacy.

Next Sunday, September 22nd, our small group ministry coordinator, Alexis, is offering small group facilitator training starting at 4 pm.  If you would like to get involved or are even just curious, please contact Alexis at [email protected].

Also next Sunday, September 22nd, the Worship Service Committee meets at 6 pm.  To get involved in creating our Sunday services, please contact our Vice President, Lisa Sanning.

Community Events this week:

Tomorrow, Monday, September 16th at 7 pm in their Art Gallery, Missouri River Regional Library presents: "Changing Relationships in a Changing World."  Dr. Catherine Rymph, chair of the Department of History at the University of Missouri-Columbia, will discuss how social and cultural shifts after World War II shaped the form and function of personal relationships and how the generations responded to these major changes.  Contact Madeline Matson.  For more library events, visit MRRL.org.

This Tuesday, September 17th, the Lincoln University Presidential Lecture Series welcomes political strategist Symone Sanders.  Free and open to the public, held in the Scruggs Center Ballroom.  Doors open at 5:30 pm, program at 6, Q&A at 7.

This Thursday, September 19th at 7 pm in their Art Gallery, MRRL presents: "The History of Missile Sites in Missouri."  This presentation will showcase Missouri’s history with the Nike and Minuteman II missile programs, rocket and missile engine testing as well as discussions on the decommissioning of the 150 former Minuteman II missile silos and 15 launch control facilities by the Air Force. The presenters will include staff from the Missouri Department of Natural Resources Federal Facilities Section.  Contact Madeline Matson.  For more library events, visit MRRL.org.

Next Sunday, September 22nd, MRRL holds an Artist Reception for Bruce Woodward.  View the exhibit, meet the artist and enjoy some light refreshments. The artwork is on display until the end of October.  Contact Madeline Matson.  For more library events, visit MRRL.org.

This week, Capitol City Cinema presents "The Farewell" (Thursday through Sunday), and a special In The Park After Dark showing of "The Fantastic Mr. Fox" (Saturday only).  For showtimes, more events, and more information, visit capitolcitycinema.org.

And Scene One Theater presents "The Musical of Musicals (The Musical)" directed by Natalie Eickhoff, Thursday through Saturday at 7:30 pm.  For more information, visit sceneonetheatre.com.

For yoga and even more events, see our online calendars:

UUFJC Events
Affiliated Events 
Religious Education
Building Use (other)
Community Events  

Have a great week!

This morning, we celebrated our annual Water Communion.  One of the rituals we honor --- that we come to expect --- in our year together is when regather our Fellowship as Summer turns toward Fall, perhaps regathering from rest or travel, and we begin a new church year.  Each of us is invited to bring a sample of water --- or use a symbolic dollop of water --- to represent experiences we bring with us as we come together.  Today brought the extra touch of water from the sky, but the storm cleared in time for many of us to come and share, everything from childhood experiences to travels to the justice causes that water represents for us.

Next Sunday, September 15th:

Adult Forum - 9:15 am
""Peacebuilding Leadership," Betty Cooper

Service and Religious Education - 10:30 am
Message: Rev. Nancy TannerThies
If you have a joy or concern that you would like to have read during the Service, please submit it by noon on Friday through our website: http://uufjc.org/joys--concerns.html

Plus Children's RE --- "The Power of Numbers"

UUFJC News and Events this week:

Our President, Katherine Connor, is seeking people to help in renewing our Welcoming Congregation status.  See our September newsletter for more information or contact Katherine.

We are also in the process of updating our Members and Friends Directory.  The Administrator, Laura Gilkey, may e-mail you or approach you to confirm your contact information and whether you wish to be listed.  You can update, add, or remove your directory information at any time by contacting Laura at [email protected].

Faith Voices for Jefferson City will be collecting signatures to put an issue on the ballot to expand Medicaid eligibility.  To get involved in this effort, contact Molly Freebairn.

This Tuesday, September 10th, Patt Behler is inviting UUFJC Members and Friends to her home for an informal Deck Discussion at 7 pm.  Starting topic is the 3rd UU Principle, “Acceptance of one another and encouragement to spiritual growth in our congregations.”  Space is limited, so you must contact Patt if you wish to attend.

This Thursday, September 12th, the local chapter of the American Association of University Women meets in our building at 7 pm.  Hope Gerdes, Edward Jones Financial Advisor, will be the speaker.  Her topic for the evening is "Outsmart the Scammers."  Contact Charlotte Parsons.

Next Sunday afternoon, September 15th from 2:30 to 4:30, the Art Committee is holding an artist reception and 92nd birthday celebration for our own Patt Behler.  A retrospective show of her work is currently on display here at the Fellowship, and the building will be open for art viewing, a donated art supply market, and more.  For more information, contact Art Committee Chairs Patt Behler and Roberta Dunkel.

Later next Sunday evening, September 15th, the UUFJC Board meets at 6 pm.  All are welcome to attend our board meetings.  Contact our President, Katherine Connor.

Community Events this week:

This Tuesday, September 10th at 7 pm in their Art Gallery, Missouri River Regional Library presents an installment of the LU-MRRL Lecture Series: "Gender Reveal! Law and Order: SVU (or, Not on the Money!)"  There’s a “twist” in this well-known episode of Law and Order SVU. Come find out what really happened in the true-life case from the 1960s that tells us about the gender science of the day. Dr. Cal Johnson, associate professor of psychology, will discuss the Dr. John Money and Gender Reassignment Controversy.  Contact Madeline Matson.  For more library events, visit MRRL.org.

This Wednesday, September 11th at 7 pm in their Art Gallery, MRRL hosts a Capital READ Book Discussion.  Join library director Claudia Cook and adult programmer Madeline Matson for a discussion of the 2019 Capital READ: The Girl’s Guide to Missiles: Growing Up in America’s Secret Desert by Dr. Karen Piper.  Contact Madeline Matson.  For more library events, visit MRRL.org.

This week, Capitol City Cinema presents "Late Night" (Thursday through Sunday).  For showtimes, more events, and more information, visit capitolcitycinema.org.

For yoga and even more events, see our online calendars:

UUFJC Events
Affiliated Events 
Religious Education
Building Use (other)
Community Events  

Have a great week!

This morning, Rev. Mike Adamek joined us to begin our month of reflection on Expectations.  Rev. Mike argued that we shouldn't let our expectations -- whether generated by ourselves or others (based on our attitudes of optimism or pessimism) -- create a cocoon around us that keeps us from being vulnerable.  Life isn't the way it's supposed to be.  It's the way you cope that matters.  That takes courage, but being vulnerable means we are open not just to the bad, but also to the good.
(summary by Katherine Connor)

Next Sunday, September 8th:

Adult Forum - 9:15 am
 "The Mueller Report," Bob Boldt

Service and Religious Education - 10:30 am
Message: Water Communion, Jim Davis
Please bring a small sample of water that represents a significant experience from the past year.
If you have a joy or concern that you would like to have read during the Service, please submit it by noon on Friday through our website: http://uufjc.org/joys--concerns.html

Plus Children's RE --- "The Power of One Voice"

Potluck Lunch After Service - Please bring a favorite dish!

UUFJC News and Events this week:

Our President, Katherine Connor, is seeking people to help in renewing our Welcoming Congregation status.  See our September newsletter for more information or contact Katherine.

Faith Voices for Jefferson City will be collecting signatures to put an issue on the ballot to expand Medicaid eligibility.  To get involved in this effort, contact Molly Freebairn.  Molly will also be accepting signatures next Sunday.

Once again this year, we are calling for donations of lightly used and new clothing for Project Homeless Connect.  This is an event in October supported by several local churches to provide assistance and connections to homeless people.  Please bring donations to First Baptist Church this Saturday, September 7th, starting at 10 am; look for the red and white balloons on Monroe Street.  The following items are requested:
•New or Clean, Gently-used Clothing (Especially Jackets & Coats)
•New or Gently Used Shoes 
•New Adult White Socks (Tube Socks Preferred)
•New Adult Underwear, assorted sizes
•New Washcloths
•Toiletries for care kits (fingernail clippers, razors, deodorant, and feminine hygiene products still needed)
For more information, contact [email protected].

This Thursday, September 5th, the local chapter of Moms Demand Action for Gun Sense in America meets in our building at 7 pm.  Contact Susan Randolph.

Community Events this week:

This Friday, September 5th at 7 pm in their Art Gallery, Missouri River Regional Library presents their First Friday Film  This month's selection: "The Public."  On the coldest night of the year, a Cincinnati librarian is caught between a group of homeless patrons staging a sit-in and a face-off with the local police and the media. Emilio Estevez wrote, directed and stars in this film, his gift of love to public libraries and a film 12 years in the making. Also starring Alec Baldwin, Jena Blum, Taylor Schilling and Christian Slater.  Contact Madeline Matson.  For more library events, visit MRRL.org.

This week, Capitol City Cinema presents "Late Night" (Thursday through Sunday).  For showtimes, more events, and more information, visit capitolcitycinema.org.

For yoga and even more events, see our online calendars:

UUFJC Events
Affiliated Events 
Religious Education
Building Use (other)
Community Events  

Have a great week!