“Courage” is our October theme
The essence of bravery is being without self-deception.
However, it’s not so easy to take a straight look at what we do. Seeing ourselves clearly is initially uncomfortable and embarrassing. As we train in clarity and steadfastness, we see things we’d prefer to deny – judgmental-ness, pettiness, arrogance.
These are not sins but temporary and workable habits of mind. The more we get to know them, the more they lose their power.
This is how we come to trust that our basic nature is utterly simple, free of a struggle between good and bad.
– Pema Chödrön, from The Places That Scare You: A Guide to Fearlessness in Difficult Times
Next Service
October 25 at 11:00 am
“Folklore Monsters & Cultural Fears”
Led by: Cory Page
In person at UUCEL or live on Facebook.
Announcements
Books & Puzzles Sale: A special sale for books and puzzles will be held in the schoolhouse after service on Nov 8 & 15. Please bring your donations for the sale to the schoolhouse after service this Sunday, October 25. See Elissa Alden & Debbie Hartsuff with any questions.
Fall Soup Dinner & Fundraiser: Come one, come all! Join in the fun and buy, buy, buy! On October 30 from 5:00pm to 7:30pm, we are having a Fun Fall Soup Dinner & Fall Basket Auction Fundraiser featuring a bake sale. There will be a variety of soups and other treats to choose from along with coffee and bottled water. Donation of $10 is requested per person for the dinner. Feel free to come in costume – you just might win a “Best of” prize! Bidding on the baskets began on October 4th and lasts until the event.
What we need:
– Fall-themed cupcakes and/or cookies donated to be part of the meal
– Homemade treats for the Bake Sale (have them priced and ready to sell!)
Please contact Ferne Kerr-Arnold with questions and to let her know what you can donate! hootiekerr77@gmail.com or 517-795-6265
***New Drum Circle Forming!*** Ben Brue and Rev. Dan will be starting up a new Drum Circle beginning on Wednesday, November 11 at 6:30 in the church social hall. If you’ve never experienced a drum circle before and have been curious, this is a great way to dip your toes in the water. Come and enjoy making music in this intimate environment. Extra drums are available if you need one. No drumming skill or experience is needed!
Still not sure about trying it? Read the FAQs below to learn more!
FAQs on the Benefits of Drumming Circles
1. What is a drum circle? A drum circle is a gathering of individuals who come together to play drums and other percussion instruments in a communal setting. The purpose can range from simple enjoyment and social connection to therapeutic and spiritual experiences.
2. How is a drumming circle different from other musical gatherings? Drumming circles focus on the rhythm and beat produced by drums and percussion, creating an inclusive environment where everyone, regardless of musical ability, can participate. Unlike other musical sessions that may require specific skills or rehearsals, drum circles often encourage spontaneous and collective music-making.
3. Are drumming circles beneficial for mental health? Absolutely! Drumming circles have been shown to reduce stress, elevate mood, and even boost the immune system. The rhythmic patterns and communal participation can create a sense of belonging and emotional release.
4. How can I join the drumming circle? Just show up!
5. Do I need to be an experienced drummer to join a drumming circle? No. One of the beauties of drum circles is that they welcome individuals of all skill levels. Whether you’re an experienced drummer or a first-timer, drumming circles are designed to be inclusive and celebratory of all participants.
6. Can drumming circles be therapeutic? Yes, drumming circles have therapeutic benefits. They have been used as a form of group therapy to support emotional expression, improve motor skills, and enhance cognitive functions. The act of drumming can also serve as a meditative practice, grounding participants in the present moment.
7. Are there different types of drumming circles? Yes. While the basic concept remains consistent, drumming circles can differ based on their goals, such as healing drum circles, community celebration circles, or spiritual drum circles.
8. Why are drumming circles becoming increasingly popular? The universal language of rhythm resonates with many. Drumming circles provide a space where people can connect, express themselves, and experience the power of collective rhythm. In today’s digital age, such authentic, face-to-face interactions are even more important.
Editor’s Note: Just a quick note to tell you about a new section in the Chimes, below the regular announcements. “Connecting With Our Faith” includes information and links to news, essays, events, and other offerings from the Unitarian Universalist Association (UUA) and the Mid-America Region. Feel free to let me know what you think, what items you like best, and any other feedback you have. Thanks!
Connecting With Our Faith: UUA & Mid-America News
‘UUs Join Interfaith Vigil at ICE Detention Center for Children and Families’: Local community activists and faith leaders from Louisiana and beyond marched and prayed Thursday (Oct. 1) at the fenced-off barracks and trailers at England Airpark, where federal immigration officials are preparing to open a privately-run facility to hold immigrant families and unaccompanied children awaiting deportation… “We lament the childhood moments that detention will interrupt: a familiar bedtime, a classroom full of friends, a meal around a family table, the freedom to play without fear, graduation, a birthday,” said the Rev. Robin Tanner, president of the Unitarian Universalist Ministers Association, who flew in from New Jersey to attend the event and led a prayer in front of the facility. . Click here to read the full article.
Braver/Wiser – A Weekly Message of Courage and Compassion:
This week’s offering is Embodied Scriptures by Melissa Jeter.
“Wherever I go, I bring my ancestors with me. There was a time when I was disconnected from this sense of being. I’ve lost the memory of my grandmother’s face—though I know that her love in the first four years of my life sustains me still. She has always been with me in how I love. But she’s with me when I look into mirrors as well, because I look like I’m directly her child. …. There is so much more to me. I know it when I read, when I write, speak, and especially when I sing. My ancestors take hold of me. It is no small thing. I need them and they are with me and we need to be free. …” Click here to read the full message.
Let the Mystery in becoming realigned with our ancestors, known and unknown, give vitality and purpose to our Being. Remind us of the scriptures written in our bodies and faces. Let the wisdom of honoring this Love tell stories of strength and endurance for the journey. – Amen, Ase, Blessed Be
Reminders
Worship Committee seeks speakers: Do you have an idea for a service, or a willingness to take us on your spiritual journey? Or do you know someone in the community who would? Please contact Darrin Palmer or another member of the Worship Committee. They are happy to help create a Sunday Service!
Social Mission Designee:
The Social Mission Designee for our 2nd Quarter is Grow Jackson. Please give by using the donate button on our website or by contributing with a check with Grow Jackson in the memo line.
Minister’s Schedule:
- October 21 – Off
- October 22-23 – Elkhart
- October 24 – Off
- October 25-27 – Elkhart
- October 28 – Off
Rev. Dan is available for 1:1 emergency pastoral care regardless of his days off. If you are in need of immediate pastoral care, please contact him right away. Please refrain from texting Rev. Dan after normal work hours unless it is a critical issue that needs immediate attention; if not, email him the next workday. If you need an immediate response to an email on a day off, type “URGENT’ in the subject line.
Please submit items for this weekly email by Tuesday afternoon at WednesdayChimes@gmail.com. Please include the date(s) you would like the announcement published in the subject line of your email.
Sunday Announcements
Please submit items to be announced on Sunday to the Worship Committee at uuliberty@gmail.com
Joys and Sorrows
Please submit items for inclusion in our Sunday service to the Worship Committee at uuliberty@gmail.com