12/8/2019
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 smalluugroups@gmail.com.
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 smalluugroups@gmail.com.
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!