The Adult Faith Exploration Planning Team invites you to consider the following offerings which launch in the New Year.
Soul Matters Group (conversational) – A new group convenes in January; 2nd Monday, 1:30-3:30 PM. Interested? Curious about our small group ministry? Contact Rev. Claudia faithdev@uuasheville.org
Demonstrating Our Values Through Eating (DOVE) A 6-week Adult RE program exploring our daily food choices and their impact on our own lives and on life on Earth. Informative documentaries, fun cooking sessions, and more! Jan 11- Feb 15, Thursday sessions, 4-6PM Sandburg Hall. For more information & registration contact Rebecca Bringle rkbringle@gmail.com Facilitators: Rebecca and Robert Bringle
World Religions: Sacred Texts Beginning January 2024, UU Asheville member, Amy Wright Glenn, the founder and director of the Institute for the Study of Birth, Breath, and Death and a long-time Unitarian Universalist will facilitate a 5-month study of Sacred Texts. Participants will meet once a month (via Zoom) and draw from Hinduism, Buddhism, Judaism, Christianity, and Islam. The aim is to carefully read and consider a foundational text for each of these five wisdom traditions with the intention of deepening an understanding of the central tenets, debates/discussions, and practices/rituals affirmed in each tradition. All are welcome! Dates: Jan 28, Feb 11, March 10,April 7, May 5 Registration information and details here.
Taoism 101 Readings and discussion based on the translation of Tao te Ching: Power for the Peaceful by Dr. Marc S. Mullinax, Mars Hill University March 13, 27 and April 10, 24 ; 6:00-7:30 PM, Sanctuary Facilitator: Dr. Mullinax Registration TBA
Jeffery Robinson had one of the best educations in America. He went to Marquette University and Harvard Law School and has been a trial lawyer for over 40 years – as a public defender, in private practice, at the ACLU, and now at The Who We Are Project. In 2011, Robinson began raising his then 13-year-old nephew and, as a Black man raising a Black son, struggled with what to tell his son about racism in America. How, he wondered, did we get here? And when he started looking at our Nation’s history, Robinson was shocked by what he had not known. For the past 10 years, in community centers, concert halls, houses of worship, and conference rooms across America, he has been sharing what he learned. In WHO WE ARE – A Chronicle of Racism in America, Robinson faces his largest audience, asking all of us to examine who we are, where we come from, and who we want to be.
Anchored by Robinson’s 2018 performance at NYC’s historic Town Hall Theater, the film interweaves historical and present-day archival footage, Robinson’s personal story, and observational and interview footage capturing Robinson’s meetings with Black change-makers and eyewitnesses to history. From a hanging tree in Charleston, South Carolina, to a walking tour of the origins of slavery in colonial New York, to the site of a 1947 lynching in rural Alabama, the film brings history to life, exploring the enduring legacy of white supremacy and our collective responsibility to overcome it.
Note: This film will be shown in person in Sandburg Hall and on Zoom. If you wish to view the film on Zoom, request a link from Charlie Wussow at mnpopi@icloud.com.
There will be a guided discussion after the screening of the film.
Justice Ministry Film Night: TOWN DESTROYER Nov. 3rd, 7 PM, In person & via Zoom. This film explores the ways we look at art and history at a time of racial reckoning. The story focuses on a dispute over historic murals depicting the life of George Washington: slaveowner, general, land speculator, President, and a man Seneca leaders called “Town Destroyer” after he ordered their villages destroyed during the Revolutionary War. The film addresses current debates over trauma, student safety, and cancel culture. More details here.
The act of installing a new minister with a congregation is a sacred act, and the service that incorporates its ritual is a powerful one. The Unitarian Universalist Congregation of Asheville will be holding this special service of music, celebration, and installation on Sunday, Nov. 5th at 5 PM at Warren Wilson College Chapel (101 Chapel Lane, Swannanoa, NC 28778). Plan now to join us and welcome religious leaders from across the city and around the region and beyond, as they join us to celebrate. Reception to follow. More information about shuttles, parking, reception, etc. can be found here!
In the US, 1 in 5 experience a mental illness each year, 1 in 20 experience a serious mental illness each year. Among our youth, 1 in 6 experience a mental health disorder each year. These are sobering statistics. For everyone suffering a mental health condition, there are parents, children, partners, siblings and friends impacted. Even in our progressive congregation, this is rarely discussed. Come and learn about the serious mental health disorders, the care and treatment of these conditions and the local resources for help.” The workshop will be Oct. 22, 1-3PM. Contact Rev. Claudia Jiménez for details and registration info. faithdev@uuasheville.org
Ask Buncombe County Commissioners to Ban Plastic Bags
Buncombe County Residents use over 132 million single use plastic bags every year. These bags clutter our roadways, end up in our storm drains, and pollute our waterways. Over 500 local governments and several states across the country have passed bans on certain single-use plastics. Buncombe County needs to take the lead in banning plastic bags and Styrofoam takeout containers and cups. Email Buncombe County Commissioners and ask them to pass a Plastic Pollution Ordinance that would ban the use of plastic shopping bags and Styrofoam cups by fast-food restaurants, grocery stores, and retailers.
Also plan to attend the Buncombe County Commission Meeting on Tuesday, September 19th at 5 PM to show your support for a plastic bag ban. There will be a rally in front of the County Commission Building, 200 College Street, at 4 PM and the meeting is upstairs on the third floor.
Contact Ken Brame with the WNC Sierra Club for more info: kenbrame@gmail.com 828-423-8045
Justice Ministry Film Night Friday, September 15, 7 PM – In Person In Sandburg Hall and on Zoom
ABOUT EATING OUR WAY TO EXTINCTION
The film that blows open the lid on the elephant in the room that no one wants to talk about.
Both entertaining and alarming, this powerful documentary will change the way you look at the food industry – forever!
With searing insight that shines light in dark corners, this compelling documentary opens the debate that not everyone wants to have. Exposing this powerful truth will alter your perception of how your food arrives at your plate and be warned, it will shock you! EATING OUR WAY TO EXTINCTION will dramatically change your perception of our current eco-crises and the urgency for change.
With commentary from some of the world’s best-known personalities and leading scientists, this is a powerful documentary that invites you on an eye-opening journey. Meet the elephant in the room that no one wants to talk about. This story is both alarming and entertaining. If you dare to take this journey with us, it will change the way you eat, your understanding of the food industry and truly shine the spotlight on the current and alarming eco-crises of our time.
Note: This film will be shown in person in Sandburg Hall and on Zoom. If you wish to view the film on Zoom, request a link from Charlie Wussow at mnpopi@icloud.com. If you plan to view the film in Sandburg Hall, we would appreciate a YES response for planning purposes.
There will be a discussion after the screening of the film. Members of the newly formed Asheville chapter of the UU Animal Ministry will be present to answer questions, distribute informative literature, and provide planet/animal-friendly snacks.
Justice Ministry Film Night Friday, September 15th, 7 PM Unitarian Universalist Congregation of Asheville One Edwin Place, Asheville, NC 28801
OPPORTUNITIES Sept. 28, Curious Conversations: Reparations; Noon-1:00pm, bring a bagged lunch. Facilitator: Rev. Claudia; Discussion questions and background informationhere.
SAVE THE DATES Since March of 2022, the Community Reparations Commission has been working to establish recommendations for consideration by the City a County. On Saturday, Oct. 7, a Community Reparations Summit will be held, providing an opportunity for the public to hear directly from the impact focus areas of criminal justice, economic development, education, housing, and health and wellness and provide feedback on their draft recommendations.
The Summit will be held from 10 a.m. until 3 p.m. on Saturday, Oct. 7 at the UNC Asheville Sherrill Center, 227 Campus Drive, Asheville. Parking and admission are free, but attendance is limited and registration is required. Click hereto register.
The event will also feature keynote speaker George Fatheree, who helped return $20 million to the descendants of the owners of Bruce’s Beach, a popular California waterfront property, after it was wrongly taken from them in the 1920s.
Leading up to the Summit, UNC Asheville will host two free movie nights:
“Black in Asheville” on Monday Oct. 2 at 6:30 p.m. followed by a discussion with filmmaker Todd Gragg
“The Big Payback” on Thursday, Oct. 5 at 6:30 p.m.
Both movies will be shown at the Mullen & James Humanities Hall, 600 Theatre Lane, Woodfin on the campus of UNC Asheville. Doors will open at 5:45 p.m., and free parking will be available. Food trucks will be available in the parking lot for moviegoers beginning at 5 p.m.
COMMUNITY EVENT Day of Outrage & Solidarity Yellow t-Shirt Brigade July 1st, 5 pm, Pack Square Park (by the old monument) Cities across the state are joining in the NC People’s Power Coalition Statewide “Day of Outrage”. The Asheville planning team will host speakers and a “community speak out” to protest far reaching legislation that will affect our communities for generations to come. Our bodies, our schools, our health, our environment, our rights, our income, our jobs, our communities, and our democracy are under attack. Let’s gather to speak up and together work to take back our rights!To RSVP, go here. Questions? Contact Everett at elena@southernvision.org or 919-413-1276.
LEGISLATIVE ADVOCACY Opportunities to engage in legislative advocacy grounded in our values of justice and equity so that all may thrive in our communities.
Common Cause NC is organizing several phone banks to connect constituents to their elected officials in the NC General Assembly to oppose both SB 747 and SB 749. Go here to get details and sign up for one or more!
The Racial Justice Coalition is asking people to sign on in support of reparations for Black community members in Asheville and Buncombe County. Go here to get specifics and become one of the 5,000 people they are trying to reach by July 1st!.
Earlier this month, the NC Board of Elections opened a public comment period for rules for voter ID. Get details from this media release and how you can offer your comments. The deadline to offer comments online is June 23rd.
The ACLU (the American Civil Liberties Union) is leading an effort to get people to share their opposition to book bans. Go here for details and to sign.
The National Immigration Law Center is asking people to tell Congress to find a pathway to citizenship for DACA recipients. Go here to express your support.
Justice Ministry Film Night Friday, June 23, 7pm Zoom (New Date due to technical difficulties 6/16.)
ABOUT Upriver, Downstream
This is a 30 minute documentary film about community activists on the front lines fighting for water justice and equity. Their powerful stories are interwoven with historical context about the successes and failures of the Clean Water Act. The Act’s landmark regulations significantly reduced water pollution in America but did not serve many disadvantaged communities.
ABOUT Unbreathable, The Fight for Healthy Air
This is a 30-minute film that weaves historical milestones of one the nation’s most critical health laws, the Clean Air Act, with current day stories of environmental injustice and community action. Nearly half of all Americans still live in areas with unhealthy levels of air pollution, particularly those in poorer communities.
Note: These films will be shown on Zoom only. If you wish to view the films, request a link from Charlie Wussow at mnpopi@icloud.com. There will be a discussion after the screening of the films.
Justice Ministry Film Night Friday, June 23rd, 7 PM Unitarian Universalist Congregation of Asheville
Note: This film will be shown on Zoom only. If you wish to view the film, request a link from Charlie Wussow at mnpopi@icloud.com.
There will be a guided discussion after the screening of the film
The Racial Justice Coalition unveiled a new campaign called Reparations Are Due.Our goal is simple: to show that there is broad multiracial support for Reparations in Asheville and Buncombe County.Do you support the local Reparations process? If so, you can show your support by signing our Reparations Are Due Pledge here.We have set a goal to attain 5,000 signatures on this Pledge by July 1 – We hope you and your circles will sign, achieving this goal with us.
Some background: In 2020, both the City of Asheville and Buncombe County apologized to Black community members for hundreds of years of harm they had caused or allowed. Our local Community Reparations Commission (CRC) has taken up the challenge of defining how the City and County should make amends for these harms. Recognizing just how hard that task was going to be, the RJC went all-in on Every Black Voice, our campaign to ensure that the Commission gets meaningful input from local Black community members to help guide their essential work. Every Black Voice remains our top priority, and we’re now launching a second campaign – The Reparations Are Due Campaign – to demonstrate the depth and breadth of community support for the Reparations process.
We gathered together over a hundred of our supporters last night to outline the rationale and purpose of the campaign and invite them to sign a Pledge of their support. We premiered an exciting new video produced by our teammate sparrow, went through some important local history, and then shared the content of the Pledge. A link to sparrow’s video, highlights from the call, and the full call (along with the Pledge) are all at the Reparations Are Due campaign page, in case you missed this launch event and/or want to share it with friends and fellow supporters. NOTE: This page has various informative videos).
The Community Reparations Commission (CRC) will soon be sending the City Council and County Commission a collection of recommendations. The City and County have affirmed their intention to follow the CRC’s leadership. However, if the CRC’s recommendations are appropriately bold in scope, they’re likely to encounter some resistance. Now is the time to let the CRC and our local government leaders know that this community supports deep and meaningful Reparations. We invite you to check out the Pledge today, and to share it with others so that we can meet our goal of 5,000 signatures by July 1. Together, we can and will continue to build this movement for collective liberation.
The NC General Assembly overrode Gov. Cooper’s Veto of SB20. The law will take effect July 1st. THANK YOU to all who have taken action over these last few weeks to beat this bill. It’s a heartbreaking loss, and we will continue to advocate for abortion healthcare. The Reproductive Justice Advocates at UU Avl meet via zoom May 30 at 7pm. Contact Rev. Claudia faithdev@uuasheville.org for the link.
What can you do? If you are in the position to do so, please consider doing an urgent Share the Plate or other invitation to donate to our trusted partners, Carolina Abortion Fund. CAF operates a confidential, toll free helpline that provides financial, practical, and emotional support to callers in North and South Carolina trying to access abortion care. They serve all callers regardless of gender identity, race, age, socioeconomic status, sexual orientation, religion, ability, place of origin, citizenship, and all other physical or social defining factors. You can Donate Here.
In just 48 hours last week, anti-abortion lawmakers in the NC General Assembly introduced and passed a monster abortion ban. This bill bans abortion after 12 weeks, puts further limits on medication abortion, mandates 3 in-person visits for abortion care, and so much more. It is full of medically unnecessary, political, and spiteful restrictions on abortion care, and it’s now on the Governor’s desk.
Governor Cooper has promised to veto this bill, and our focus is ensuring there is a path to upholding his veto. Below are three actions you can take today to protect abortion access in North Carolina.
1) Contact the Governor to thank him for his promise to veto SB20!
His office needs to know that there is opposition to this bill from thousands of people around the state.
Sample script: “My name is ___________, and I live in CITY . I am calling today to thank Governor Cooper for speaking out against the monster abortion ban, Senate Bill 20, which was rushed through the legislature with no notice and little public input. Abortion care is part of reproductive health care and maternal care, and it should be treated as such. Politicians have no business inserting themselves into healthcare decisions. The restrictions on this bill will fall hardest on those who already have the least access to healthcare. I oppose this new monster abortion ban and I strongly urge Governor Cooper to veto it!”
2) Write a letter to the editor!
The bill sponsors know banning abortion is not popular with North Carolinians, which is why they crafted this ban behind closed doors and rushed it through the process. The sponsors are insisting that this bill has the support of people in our state, but we know that it is not true! We need to make sure as many people as possible know the truth about this bill and to demonstrate that majority of people in our state support abortion access and oppose this bill.
In addition to banning abortion after 12 weeks, the bill also puts barriers in place to make it more difficult for patients to seek out care, especially if they have to travel far to a clinic.
This monster ban is unworkable for medical providers. This is extreme and dangerous government overreach into the practice of medicine.
Abortion care is a common part of reproductive healthcare, and restricting this care further will have impacts throughout the healthcare system, as we’ve already seen in other states.
The Green Boat: Reviving Ourselves in Our Capsized Culture, by Mary Pipher. This book offers much opportunity for discussion of accepting the climate crisis and developing a healthy response, resilience, and personal/collective approaches for helping. Mary Pipher is a UU and therapist; her other books include Reviving Ophelia, The Shelter of Each Other, and Another Country.
Meet in person on Sunday mornings, 9:30-10:45 am, in the 23 Edwin Parlor or Meet on Zoom on Monday evenings, 7-8:15 pm (contact Sunita for zoom link sunitapatterson@gmail.com)
You’re welcome to do in person some weeks and Zoom other weeks. Here are the sections to read: May 7/8: Introduction/Section 1, Trauma May 21/22: Section 2, Denial June 4/5: Section 3, Awareness to Action June 25/26: Section 4, Resilient Coping July 9/10: Section 5, The Transcendent Response
Justice Ministry Film Night Friday, May 12 7pm Zoom
ABOUT THE FILM
In our angry, polarized time, Americans are looking for positive inspiration. The story of Stewart Udall brings audiences such inspiration and more. No American political figure is as relevant to the issues we face today as a nation–learning to work together, achieving racial and environmental justice, improving international relations, enhancing beauty and the arts, alleviating climate change and moving toward sustainability–as Stewart Udall.
“It beckons us all to public service, informs us on how we came to benefit from the conservation we so enjoy, and, perhaps above all, teaches us the power of persistence and a smile. Don’t miss this masterpiece.” Gus Speth, Director, United Nations Development Program, Former Dean, Yale School of Forestry and Environment
“STEWART UDALL is a visually stunning journey through US environmental history. The film is a captivating story that intertwines US history, politics, tribal policy, and environmental justice and activism.” Yolanda Cieters, Sustainability Manager, Center for Environmental Justice and Sustainability, Seattle University
“STEWART UDALL: The Politics of Beauty is beautiful, sad, joyous, contemplative, radical, thoughtful, challenging, and full of hope! One person can make a difference and Stewart Udall made a difference in so many ways!” Shelton Johnson, Ranger, Yosemite National Park
Note: This film will be shown on Zoom only. If you wish to view the film, request a link from Charlie Wussow at mnpopi@icloud.com.
There will be a guided discussion after the screening of the film
Paula Cole Jones has agreed to offer her “Building a Culture of Inclusion” Workshopvirtually, to UU Congregations across North Carolina this spring! SAVE THE DATE – Saturday, May 27th from 10:00am – 2:00pm, for this four-hour workshop that will cover strategic steps to multicultural change. Paula will guide us through actions we can take to embrace the spiritual, cultural, and structural aspects of moving more fully into our vision of the Beloved Community through the lens of 8th Principle work. Whether your congregation is voting on the 8th Principle this June or otherwise working to dismantle oppression and deepen your commitment to inclusion, this workshop is for you!!!
Other ways to stay engaged with the 8th Principle Movement
Join the National 8th Principle Learning Community Monthly Gatherings!If you are interested in participating, email Paula Cole Jones at pcolejonesoffice@gmail.com
Join the 8th Principle Learning Community Facebook Group via this link.
UU Justice NC Call to Action – Tell your State Rep & Senator to Vote NO on HB 673 – The Ban on Drag Performances
Last week, NC lawmakers filed HB 673, a drag ban that would make drag performances illegal on public property or in the presence of anyone under the age of 18. A first-time violation of this law would be considered a misdemeanor, and a second offense, a felony. The bill joins a slew of other anti-LGBTQ+ bills currently in the legislature and a few more filed last week, including two more gender-affirming care bans (HB 808, HB 786) and another license to discriminate in healthcare (HB 819).
Hi, my name is _______, I am a person of faith and one of your constituents.
I am calling in regards to the onslaught of discriminatory and cruel anti-LGBTQ+ legislation moving through the General Assembly this spring.
And specifically, I want to urge Sen. ____ / Rep. _____ to vote against HB 673, the bill that would make drag performances illegal on public property or in the presence of anyone under the age of 18. Drag performances are an important part of queer culture and a form of art expression. Drag bans are yet another strategy to restrict gender expression and attack the LGBTQ community.
I join others across the state in asking the General Assembly to focus on real issues like fully funding the Leandro education plan and increasing the state minimum wage (feel free to name other issues you care about).
Every day, after a UU Adopter fills the pantry, it is empty a few hours later. There is such a need for food in our community. Even if you have not signed up as a Sustainer, please give when possible. There is a bin in Sandburg Hall or the left cabinet outside at the back entrance of UU to drop contributions off. What is most appreciated always are pop-top canned meals, water, and fruit/applesauce in containers. If you have any questions, or want to get more involved in this project, email Anita Feldman at anitasfeldman@gmail.com .
Justice Ministry Film Night Friday, April 14, 7pm Zoom
ABOUT THE FILM
Today, humanity’ s demand for resources vastly exceeds nature’ s ability to supply them. Food, water, climate and extinction emergencies are unfolding before our eyes. 8 B I LL ION ANGELS tells the truth about the conflict between the size of our global population and the sustainability of our planet. It dispels the misperceptions that technology can save us, that reducing consumption is the only answer, and that the blame lies solely in the developing world. Using breathtaking cinematography and startling emotion, the film takes the viewer on an immersive and emotional journey into the lives of farmers, fisherman, and others as they witness an unfolding global crisis and inspires real solutions toward lasting sustainability and a better quality of l i fe for al l Earth’ inhabitants.
Note: This film will be shown on Zoom only. If you wish to view the film, request a link from Charlie Wussow at mnpopi@icloud.com.
There will be a guided discussion after the screening of the film
In 2023 alone, the ACLU has tracked 434 anti-LGBTQ bills in the U.S. with many of them directly attacking Trans youth. No bills, laws, or state oppressors will stop us from being who we are and loving each other through it all! Tranzmission and Youth OUTright invite you to join us this weekend to stand in solidarity with Trans youth. Protect Trans Youth: Rally & Potluck, Saturday, April 1, 1-3 PM, Pack Square, Asheville
Folks of all ages are welcome. Bring a dish, a picnic blanket, a game, or just your beautiful self. To make the event more accessible, please bring a mask and be mindful of COVID safety when sharing food. We look forward to being in community with you!
Sunday, March 26, 2023 11am
Rev. Cathy Harrington, Interim Lead Minister
This Sunday marks the formal conclusion of the Annual Giving Drive. We will welcome new members as we celebrate with gratitude UU Asheville’s “being and becoming” with lots of music, a skit, and fun. Following the service, there will be food, games, more music, and fellowship!
Every day, after a UU Adopter fills the pantry, it is empty a few hours later. There is such a need for food in our community. Even if you have not signed up as a Sustainer, please give when possible. There is a bin in Sandburg Hall or the left cabinet outside at the back entrance of UU to drop contributions off. What is most appreciated always are pop-top canned meals, water, and fruit/applesauce in containers. If you have any questions, or want to get more involved in this project, email Anita Feldman at anitasfeldman@gmail.com .
Have you heard about the Article II study? Did you know the wording of the 7 Principles & 6 Sources are in the process of change? The Article II Study Commission has completed its two-year study. They submitted their report (PDF, 26 pages) to the UUA Board of Trustees at their January meeting. Join us for an informal conversation this Thursday, March 16 at noon in Sandburg Hall (bring a bagged lunch) or at 7 pm via zoom (link in the e-News March 15) on the Study Commission’s recommended revisions to Article II. Facilitator: Rev. Claudia
Join Revs. Cathy and Claudia for an opportunity to discuss books that invite us into conversations about challenging issues. We will meet at noon in Sandburg Hall (bring a bagged lunch) or join us viaZoom at 7:00 PM. Contact Rev. Claudia for the link faithdev@uuasheville.org
When? Thursday, March 2 What? “Embracing Discomfort” Book Study: Sing, Unburied, Sing, by Jesmyn Ward
Future Meetings
May 4 On Earth We’re Briefly Gorgeous: A Novel by Ocean Vuong
Fall Dates TBA Mistakes and Miracles by Nancy Palmer Jones and Karin Lin
Justice Ministry Film Night, Friday, February 10, 7pm
Streets of Dreams
Streets of Dreams tells the stories of grassroots activists in communities of color around the U.S. who are using community land trusts (CLTs) to preserve the affordability of their homes, prevent displacement and shape the future of their communities.
Arc of Justice
Arc of Justice traces the remarkable journey of New Communities, Inc. (NCI) in southwest Georgia, a story of racial justice, community organizing, and perseverance in the face of enormous obstacles. NCI was created in 1969 in Albany, Georgia by leaders of the Civil Rights Movement, including Congressman John Lewis, and Charles and Shirley Sherrod, to help secure economic independence for African American families. For 15 years, NCI cooperatively farmed nearly 6,000 acres, the largest tract of land in the United States owned by African Americans at the time, but racist opposition prevented them from implementing plans to build 500 affordable homes as part of their community land trust.
Unable to secure government loans to cope with the impact of successive years of drought, NCI lost the land to foreclosure in 1985. But 25 years later it was given new life.
Reparations
Reparations explores the four-century struggle to seek repair and atonement for slavery in the United States. Black and Asian Americans reflect on the legacy of slavery, the inequities that persists, and the critical role that solidarity between communities has in acknowledging and addressing systemic racism in America. This story is told by Black and Asian Americans who believe that our collective liberation can only be achieved by standing with one another. Reparations seeks to raise awareness of the Black reparations struggle and how vital it is to healing this country.
Note:This film will be shown on Zoom Only. If you intend to view the film on Zoom, send a request for the link to Charlie Wussow by Thursday, February 9.
There will be a discussion after the screening of the filmruntime: 68 minutes
Unitarian Universalist Congregation of Asheville, One Edwin Place, Asheville, NC 28801 There is no charge for viewing the film
30 Days of Love 2023! Side with Love’s annual month of spiritual nourishment, political grounding, and shared practices of faith and justice, 30 Days of Love will go from Martin Luther King, Jr. Day (January 16) through Valentine’s Day (February 14). This year’s 30 Days of Love is a love letter to our whole beloved community – families, religious professionals, partners and communities that embody our values and work for justice and liberation year round. Each week will feature a spiritual theme overlapping with one of Side With Love’s intersectional justice priorities, and we’ll share an array of offerings to help nourish your spirit and give gratitude and affirmation. Learn More Here
Saturday January 14 – Dr. MLK, Jr. Prayer Breakfast, 8:00 am at the Crowne Plaza Resort. We are not purchasing tickets for tables this year, but individuals are encouraged to attend. There is more information, and you can buy tickets at http://mlkasheville.org/
Sunday January 15 – UU Asheville 9:30 AM All Ages making posters for the rally; Service at 11:00 am with homilies by Religious Educator, Kim Collins and Rev. Claudia Jiménez centering on the legacy of Dr. King.
Monday January 16 – Dr. MLK, Jr. Peace Walk and Rally. Meet at 11:30 am at St. James AME Church for a 0.4-mile walk to the rally in Pack Square Park. UU Asheville participates in this event every year and this year it will be a yellow shirt brigade event.
Those attending the Peace Walk can also bring nonperishable food items to the collection site at St. James AME Church before the walk. The food will be distributed between Manna Food Bank and the East End Valley Street Neighborhood Food Pantry.
Join Revs. Cathy and Claudia for an opportunity to discuss novels (and an anthology) that invite us into covenanted, deep listening conversations about challenging issues. We will meet at noon in Sandburg Hall (bring a bagged lunch) or join us viaZoom (link in the e-News) at 7:00 PM.
When? Thursday, March 2
What? “Embracing Discomfort” Book Study: Sing, Unburied, Sing by Jesmyn Ward
Future meetings May 4 On Earth We’re Briefly Gorgeous: A Novel by Ocean Vuong
What has been happening with the recommendations from the Racial Justice Advisory Council – RJAC? They are not collecting electronic dust! The board has approved the recommendations and identified stakeholders responsible for making each of them happen. The Justice Ministry Council has been charged to be an accountability partner so that the recommendations are fulfilled. Currently, the top recommendations being worked on are
1. Education about the 8th Principle in preparation for the vote to adopt the 8th Principle at the June 2023 Congregational Meeting.
Stakeholder: 8th Principle Team and congregation. Please participate in the 8th Principle Learning Circles being offered by the various groups and committees of the congregation. Of course, that means lay leaders have said “yes” to hosting them. We need all of us to make this happen!
2. Identifying a consultant to provide an Equity Audit of our policies, procedures and governance model. This will apparently be the first time a UU congregation has such an audit. Yeah, UU Asheville!
Stakeholder: The board has asked board member Mary Alm and Rev. Claudia Jiménez, Justice Ministry lead, to identify, interview and recommend consultants who will provide proposals for board consideration.
Racial Justice Advisory Council (RJAC) Report: What’s that?
We strive to become a radically inclusive and welcoming congregation as we are called to do if UUism is to be the liberatory faith it can be. This work started with an internal assessment led by a board-appointed small team of congregants working in partnership with our Minister of Faith Development, Rev. Claudia Jiménez. Their learnings and recommendations known as the RJAC Report were shared with the congregation and the board. One of the top recommendations was to engage the congregation in learning about the proposed 8th Principle which aligns with the work of liberation. The 8th Principle Team was formed and is actively hosting Learning Circles, tabling on Sundays and exploring other ways to prepare the congregation to vote in the June congregational meeting to adopt the 8th Principle. They are creating space for all to discuss hope, fears and dreams as we consider this important vote.
The Proposed 8th Principle:
“We, the member congregations of the Unitarian Universalist Association, covenant to affirm and promote: journeying toward spiritual wholeness by working to build a diverse multicultural Beloved Community by our actions that accountably dismantle racism and other oppressions in ourselves and our institutions.”
WHAT IS BELOVED COMMUNITY?
Beloved Community happens when people of diverse racial, ethnic, educational, class, gender, abilities, sexual orientation backgrounds/identities come together in an interdependent relationship of love, mutual respect, and care that seeks to realize justice within the community and in the broader world.
