A Unitarian Universalist Congregation
Join us for worship and religious education at 9:15 and 11:00am on Sunday Morning!
Holly Near in Concert at UCE -  Hosted by WomanSpirit 2018 -  Saturday, February 3, 2018 -  7:30pm
Tickets are $26.50 and available on the UCE website - ucevanston.org 
Click the Tickets/Giving tab at the top right on the home page
January 5, 2018
Sunday, January 7

"Empire and Epiphany: With Our Annual Burning Bowl Ritual
9:15 and 11:00am
For the traditionalists, the Christmas tree doesn't come down and the season doesn't end until Epiphany, which celebrates the three magi who visited Jesus the night of his birth and decided not to report back to the tyrant king Herod. Epiphany can be a powerful time to reflect on these oppressive times of empire - and what we will do in the coming year to be a resisting influence in our own ways. Rev. Bret Lortie speaking.

Childcare for infants, toddlers, and preschoolers is available from 9:00-12:30.
 
Join us to Stand in support of Black Lives Matter
12:10pm-12:30pm
You are invited to stand on Ridge Avenue between 12:10pm and 12:30pm to support the Black Lives Matter movement.  Signs and buttons are available for purchase at the back of the sanctuary. Signs and song lyrics will be provided for use.  Sponsored by the REAL team.

Amnesty Letters - 10:15am and 12:00pm
Join us for an easy way to take a step toward global justice. Write a brief letter to an official who has the power and influence to free an unjustly imprisoned person. We have sample letters, envelopes, etc. Meet us in the back of the sanctuary to start the New Year helping those who deserve justice.

The Chris Isely Cancer Support Group -  9:30am
The group is open to anyone facing cancer, either personally or through a family member or friend. This lay-led group is a safe place for sharing and hope. Interested participants are encouraged to drop in any time. Questions? Contact Renee Hoff
Rev. Bret Lortie
The Bathroom News

It was a few years ago at General Assembly that gender-neutral bathrooms started appearing. The year they were officially introduced was my first as an official G.A. chaplain-one of four ministers asked to offer spiritual support at our annual assembly of congregations. As I settled into my office at the beginning of the week, I wondered what concerns, feelings, thoughts, or issues people would bring.

Mostly, it was the bathrooms. There was fear and questions. What would they encounter in a gender neutral bathroom? Would people of different genders be "side by side"? Would urinals be "blocked off"? What was the etiquette? What about the discomfort? What if...? I didn't have all the answers, but I found the questions revealed much about gender privilege. Click here to read more.
Sunday, January 14, 9:15 and 11:00am
"Whose Are We?"
On Martin Luther King's birthday we consider what calls us to the work of justice. Who claims our hearts? Who owns our intentions? Rev. Bret Lortie speaking.

Sunday, January 21, 9:15 and 11:00am
"Sexual Liberation in the Age of #MeToo"
Sexual misconduct and abuse are present in every community and sector of society, causing harm to people of all ages, genders, and identities. This isn't news, of course, for much of the population. However, the sheer number of public figures accused of sexual assault recently has exposed the pervasiveness of the issue. Sexual morality has often been falsely equated with denying desire, limiting freedom, and stifling expression. As religious progressives - affirming the inherent worth and dignity of each person, promoting freedom of expression, and understanding sexuality as a sacred and integral part of who we are - how do we practice a sexual ethic that is life-giving, honoring, and empowering rather than harmful? Rev. Wiviott will lead worship and Henry Pleas will be our musical guest.

Sunday, January 28, 9:15 and 11:00am
"Falling Back in Love with the Bible"
Unitarian Universalism has a complicated relationship with the Bible. On the one hand, many of us have left it behind as a primary source of religious authority. On the other, it remains a foundational text for not only our religious tradition but for the culture at large. What's a UU to do with the Bible? Rev. Bret Lortie speaking.
This Sunday and each 1st Sunday of the month. After the worship service, head to the tables near the coffee and bagels to be paired with a UCE member who is familiar with one-on-one conversations. The two of you can find a quiet corner at church for 30-45 minutes and discover what matters to you, how you want to focus your energy, and whether you share any similar interests. This is how we strengthen our community and empower each other to live our values.
Join us for an interactive hour that will inspire and empower you to do the work of justice. At these gatherings, we explore the challenges and opportunities of transformative justice and equity making. This is a great opportunity for those new to the congregation to find ways to get involved and for those who have been engaged in the work to process your experiences.
Post your Reviews of UCE on Social Media socialmedia
Whatever app you use, post a review of your experience at UCE. We hope you find meaning, joy and healthy challenge in our community. And we hope that others who would benefit from a community like ours will find us. If you want to share the impact that our congregation has had on your life, consider writing a quick, positive review of our church on Facebook, Yelp, Google maps, Twitter, Instagram or whatever apps you use.
Are you interested in going to the UUA General Assembly next summer in Kansas City (June 20 through 24) but are not sure you'd be able to afford it?  UCE offers up to three $800 stipends to encourage attending GA, and maybe you can apply for one!  You can learn more about GA at https://www.uua.org/ga .   Applications for the stipend are available at http://ucevanston.org/denominational-affairs and on the Denominational Affairs bulletin board between Rooms 1 and 2 in the main hall off the lobby.  The deadline for completed applications is February 15, 2018.
On Christmas morning I was thinking of the children at the Rice Center who would be opening their presents. I know they enjoyed them. One little boy who is addicted to trains received a train set and in talking with Keith Polan, the Executive Director of the Rice Center, he said we are worried he will refuse to go to school because he will want to play with his train set.

The generosity this year was remarkable. We donated over 125 gift cards totaling over $3000, 365 food items, 477 toys, electronics, housewares and books, and 144 items of clothing. Click here to read more.
A public statement written to express solidarity with those who have experienced sexual harassment, abuse and violence from members of the Evanston Interfaith Clergy & Leaders Coalition, to which we belong, was sent to the Evanston Roundtable last month. Here is that letter if you didn't see it in the paper.

We know that abuse and violence happens in every community, every part of society, and in many forms. With a new story emerging nearly every day, some of you may be feeling the weight of this national conversation more than others. We are here, as your ministers, to support you as we can and refer you to further help as necessary. Please do not hesitate to reach out to us. 

Yours in faith, Rev. Eileen and Rev. Bret.
Because of your support and generosity, the Fair Trade Cart has been able to donate $3000 since July to Chute Middle School children and families, and to the Family Focus programs here in Evanston. So far we have given tuition scholarships, field trip transportation funds, tutoring at a summer camp program, holiday gifts and gift certificates, and monetary support for a garden and cooking program to promote healthy living choices. With your help, we hope to continue our present efforts and to find new ways to provide our children with opportunities and choices in building productive and healthy lives. 
Do you have a complicated relationship with food? Join us on Thursday January 11, 25 and Feb. 8 and 22 at UCE at 5:30pm (every other Thursday) to discuss nutrition, eating patterns, emotional triggers, recipes, or whatever comes up among the group members.  We have read a couple of helpful books together recently. Talk to Peggy Boccard  or Julia Takarada  if you want to know more. All are welcome.
The New Year is upon us, and it is time to make your New Year's resolutions.  One resolution that we can help  you with is to compost your food waste to demonstrate your caring for our green planet.  Join with other church members this year in using the church's composting service for a small annual contribution of $60 per person (up to a $180 maximum per household). You may have noticed the two green containers at the southeast corner of our church parking lot.  They are there for your use once you have committed to this service.

If you are interested in joining this movement for 2018, fill out this form and submit it to the church office (by mail or in person) and we will sign you up.  And for an additional $10, we will provide you with your very own kitchen counter composting bucket.  (Plastic bags are not acceptable containers because they are not compostable.)  If you have any questions about this program, please contact Compost Program Coordinator John LaPlante.
Please join Community Renewal Society for the annual Martin Luther King, Jr. Day of Faith in Action, Monday Jan. 15, 8:30-12:00.  The event includes celebration, testimony (on issues such as youth, housing, jobs and violence prevention), accountability session with Chicago public officials, and a Governor's Candidate Forum. There is an optional lunch at MacArthur's Restaurant afterwards.  RSVP to  Becky Goldberg  or  Dale Griffin  so we can plan seating and transportation.
Presented by the REAL (Racial Equity) Team and OPAL (Organization for Positive Action and Leadership)

Save the date(s) for some enlightening videos and discussion. On January 16 and 23 we'll view some short films that provide new insight into where we've been and where can we go. These will include archival footage of an intense 1960's march in Cicero, Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie's marvelous "Danger of the Single Story," a Jay Smooth (hip-hopper) lesson on maintaining equity hygiene (you don't just brush your teeth once and they're done for life), and some other short and well-worth-it videos. On January 30 we'll watch the recently released "I Am Not Your Negro," with James Baldwin. If you haven't seen this before (or even if you have) it is an experience you will not regret.  FREE POPCORN! Click here to sign up.
The song, "I Am Willing," written by Holly Near, is the theme of Womanspirit this year at the Unitarian Church of Evanston on Feb 2-4, 2018. In the world we are living in, we need to renew our hope and strengthen ourselves within a community of kindred spirits. Holly's activism, music and very life inspire and model what we need to be nourished and emboldened.

Holly Near will be giving the plenary talk and running a workshop on Saturday morning. She will give a concert at UCE on Saturday evening - concert is open to all, even if they do not attend Womanspirit.

For more information and to register please go to: http://www.womenandreligion.org/,  or see Martha Holman, Amy Grabowski, Maggie Wilson for more information!  
Scientists Who Changed Our World
Tuesdays, February 6, 13, 20, 27, 2018
Facilitated by Jerry Stone & Dan Solomon

We Can Work It Out: Dealing with Conflict Constructively - Individually and in Groups
Tuesdays, March 6 and 13, 2018
Facilitated by members of the Congregational Relations Team

Daring Democracy in Today's Political Environment
Tuesdays, March 20, 27, April 3, 2018
Facilitated by Tom Ticknor

Paganism
Tuesdays, April 10, 17, 24, 2018 
Facilitated by Taryn Nelson Seawright and ministerial intern Susan Frances

Simplicity
Tuesdays, May 8, 15, 22, 2018
Facilitated by Dick Whitaker

Hannah Arendt and the Banality of Evil
Tuesdays, May 29, June 5, 12, 2018
Facilitated by Julia Takarada and Dan Solomon

If you are in a caregiving role of any sort, we invite you to drop in at the next Caregiver Support Group. We meet the 2nd and 4th Tuesdays of the month at 7:30pm at UCE. Questions?  Contact Joyce Lofstrom  or Renee Hoff
Upcoming UCE Events

Tuesdays, Jan. 16, 23, 30, 7-9 pm Inquiry into Racial Equity History, Courage and What Can We Do

Saturday, February 3, 7:30pm
Holly Near Concert

Tuesdays, Feb. 6, 13, 20, 27, 7-9pm
Scientists Who Changed Our World

Tuesdays, March 6 and 13, 7-9pm
We Can Work It Out: Dealing with Conflict Constructively

Tuesdays, March 20, 27, April 3, 7-9pm
Daring Democracy in Today's Political Environment

Tuesdays, April 10, 17, 24, 7-9pm
Paganism

Tuesdays, May 8, 15, 22, 7-9pm
Simplicity

Tuesdays, May 29, June 5, 12, 7-9pm
Hannah Arendt and the Banality of Evil

Thursday Nights, 7pm
UCE Addictions and Recovery Group


Sunday Mornings, 9:00am & Wednesday Mornings, 9:30am
Yoga

Community Involvement
Click each event for more information.

YWCA Let's Talk at Lunch
Third Thursday of the Month
 
Our Giving House


This month we are collecting cans of tuna, salmon, and chicken for Connections for the Homeless. 

The Endowment Committee will sponsor with matching donations. Please place all donations in the little pink house just inside the west entrance.  Thank you for your continuing generosity!
Upcoming Membership Classes

Intro to Unitarian Universalism 
Sunday, January 28
12:30 - 2:00 pm
An overview of our faith, led by Rev. Bret Lortie 

Orientation Toward Membership 
Saturday, January 13
9am - noon
Led by Assistant Minister, Rev. Eileen Wiviott. An interactive class exploring what it means to be a member of this congregation.

Sign up at the guest table in the lobby or email Rev. Eileen Wiviott at  ewiviott@ucevanston.org. Childcare available upon request for both of these classes.
Things to Know About our Community

Interested in knowing more about UCE? How to submit something to Joys and Sorrows? How to get a nametag, or a rainbow or pronoun sticker for your nametag? Interested in bringing flowers and lighting the chalice on a Sunday? Click here for more information about our community!
Yoga at UCE


Join us every Sunday at 8:15am and every Wednesday at 9:30am.

Yoga at UCE is designed to reduce stress, bring relaxation, increase range of motion, and find balance - restorative yoga. If you never have done yoga before, this is your opportunity. Drop in, wear comfortable clothing for stretching, and try it. Yoga is learned by doing. Community yoga mats provided if needed.

Add Your Photo to the Photo Member Directory

Remember that there is a directory of members that includes photos on our website. This is a password protected document. Contact the office if you don't know the password. If you would like to add your photo to the directory, or update your photo, please send  a photo to  Carli Magel , or let her know you'd like your picture taken on Sunday morning. 
UCE Facebook Groups
Did you know that, in addition to the UCE Facebook Page, there are three UCE groups that members can join - the UCE Member to Member Group, the UCE Children and Youth Religious Education Group and the UCE Social Action Group?  

These are closed groups that allow members to post directly to each other. If you have an event you want members to know about, or have a cause you hope to bring attention to, in addition to the newsletter and order of service, you can post to the Facebook Group. Click the links above or search for the groups by name when you are on Facebook and ask to join.
Connecting UU: a path to belonging at UCE

45 minute discussions; Sundays at 10:15 in Room 12
These sessions are open to all,
no matter where you are on the journey. 
Childcare available. No need to sign up in advance.

Connecting UU 
classes will resume after the new year, on January 7th with Spiritual Practices


UU Principles  - Understanding the seven principles, an enlightening discussion led by members of the New Member Committee.

UU Sources A discussion of the six sources from which we draw wisdom and spiritual nourishment.

Spiritual Journeys (4 parts) - take any one or all of them in any order. Explore your religious and spiritual background, where you come from, what you want to cherish and what you want to release, and how you practice your spirituality.

How to Get Involved  - Learn how to become more engaged in the life of the church, find groups and activities of interest, discover the way things get done, answer your questions about belonging in our community.

UCE History and Tour - Learn more about the history, architecture and art of our building through a guided tour led by one of our long-term members. Tour begins at the back of the sanctuary near the large mural.
Ministers' Schedules

Rev. Bret Lortie  is available on Wednesdays, Thursdays, and by appointment. Monday is sabbath and Friday devoted to writing. To send a message or read Rev. Bret's blog, visit

Rev. Eileen Wiviott has office hours most Tuesdays,
Wednesdays, and  Thursdays, and often evening meetings on those days. Mondays are sabbatical days and Fridays she works from home. Please contact her via email at ewiviott@ucevanston.org , or via phone at (847) 864-1330 x111 (office), or (224) 565-3952 (cell).
Opportunities
 for Spiritual Practice

UCE Board of Trustees meeting is held the third Wednesday of each month in Room 3. All members are welcome. 
| 847-864-1330 | uce@ucevanston.org | http://www.ucevanston.org
1330 Ridge Ave.
Evanston, IL 60201