March 2015 Journey
 

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Journey, March 2015
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Activities & Events

Welcome, Rev. Jack Ford!

   BBUUC will enjoy Rev. Jack Ford's first sermon as BBUUC's new minister on March 8. Please join us in welcoming him to his new job! (More stories about the ministry at BBUUC are in the "BBUUC News" section below.)
The Selma Awakening

The Selma Awakening

   On Thursday, March 5 at 7pm, the Religious Texts and Society group will discuss The Selma Awakening.
   Religious Texts and Society meets on a semi-monthly basis to discuss how religious history and documents reflect the societies from which they emerged, and how their influence has shaped the world we live in today. We meet the first Thursday of odd-numbered months at 7pm.
    All are welcome. If you would like more information, please contact Dale Crawford or Scott Cromar.

The Selma Awakening

   "Selma represented a turning point for Unitarian Universalists. In answering Martin Luther King Jr.'s call to action, they shifted from passing earnest resolutions about racial justice to putting their lives on the line for the cause."
Southern Region

Joint District Assembly

   On April 17-19, there will be a joint district assembly of the districts in the Southern Region to discuss final dissolution of the districts as part of the change to the new regional structure.
   March 8 at 2pm, Sarah Ritzmann, who currently serves as a Trustee for the Florida District and on the Eldership Task Force for the Southern Region, will present information and answer questions about the structural changes that are taking place in the Southern Region. The information session is open to UUs from the BBUUC community or to UUs from other nearby congregations.
   The 2015 joint Annual Assemblies will feature:
  • an important vote which will help to define our relationships as UU congregations, clusters, elders, and staff in the Southern Region
  • a keynote address by the Rev. Jeanne Pupke, broadcast to all of the district sites
  • programming, fellowship, singing, and fun!
   People who are interested in registering for the Florida District Assembly in Orlando on April 17-19 should register by March 29. Registrations between March 29 and April 10 will be charged a $20 late fee. No registrations will be accepted after April 10 to allow the host time to prepare.
Long Strange Trip

"The Journey" UU History Films

   On Wednesdays between February 18 and March 25 at 7pm, LRE will present a six part film series on a Journey through Two Thousand Years of Unitarian Universalist History. The  name  of the series is Long Strange Trip. Each film is about one hour and we’ll end when discussion ends or by 9 at the latest. Please sign up on the sheet at the rear of the sanctuary, or by contacting religious_ed@bbuuc.org.
   Feb. 25 – Part II – The birth of Unitarianism….Part II chronicles how Servetus’ message influenced David Ferene in Transylvania and led to the formation of the first coherent Unitarian theology. It tracks that theology as it spreads to Poland and then west across Europe towards the Netherlands and England. It discusses the work of Theophilus Lindsey and Joseph Priestley in forming an organized English Unitarianism.
   March 4 – Part III - American Unitarianism…Part III talks about the development of Unitarianism  in America from 1620 through the death of Theodore Parker in 1860.  It details the three separate Unitarian faiths -  the Socinianism of Joseph Priestley, the Arianism of William Ellery Channing and the Transcendentalism of Ralph Waldo Emerson and Theodore Parker.
   March 11 – Part IV – Universalism...Part IV documents the development of Universalism from the early German and English pietists to John Murray. Elhanan Winchester, and Hosea Ballou. It details the unprecedented explosion of Universalist churches across America during the first  half of the 19th century and discusses why the movement began its precipitous decline after the death of Hosea Ballou in 1850.
   March  18th – Part V – Evolution …Part V follows both Unitarianism and Universalism through the late 19th and early 20th centuries as they evolve from Christian bible-oriented religions to our present day non-creedal movement. It discusses influences as diverse as the Civil War, Feminism and Suffrage. Darwin’s On the Origin of Species, and the Social Gospel.
   March 25th – Part VI – The Hundred Year Waltz… Part VI documents the century-long courtship between Unitarianism and Universalism that culminated in their merger in 1961. It follows Unitarian Universalism through its first half century and discusses where it may go from here.
Tending the Flame

Parenting Book Group

   Lifespan Religious Education will be facilitating a parent book discussion group bi-weekly beginning February 22.  We will be meeting after church and childcare will be offered.  Advanced sign-up is required.  Prerequisite - purchase/borrow Tending the Flame - The Art of Unitarian Universalist Parenting by Michelle Richards, and read the first three chapters prior to Session 1.
   This group will be Co-facilitated by Vanessa Birchell and Chris Jarman. It will meet Sundays after church noon-1:15pm on February 22, March 8, and March 22.  We will set the next dates after we see how this group is going.  It is LRE's plan that a vibrant parenting group will emerge from this initial book study.
   Please sign-up on the sign-up sheet on the credenza or by emailing Chris Jarman at religious_ed@bbuuc.org, and be sure to indicate if you will need childcare.

Tending the Flame: The Art of Unitarian Universalist Parenting

 encourages a practical and proactive approach to raising Unitarian Universalist children. The author includes information about developmental stages, suggestions for incorporating spiritual practices into family life, teaching the Principles in age-appropriate ways, answering difficult questions on religious matters and dealing with religious disagreements. Tending the Flame is more than a recipe book of activities; it is an invitation to a style of parenting which is values-based and values-sharing.
   "Sharing our personal religious and spiritual beliefs with our children is not indoctrination. It is offering the wisdom and insight that they eagerly seek from us-just as they look to us for guidance when choosing between right and wrong courses of action. If we are vague and ambiguous when our children ask us theological questions, we lose our opportunity to have a positive influence on them in this area. Eventually, they'll stop asking us religious questions and look for answers elsewhere."  --from Tending the Flame
Building Your Own Theology

Building Your Own Theology

   BBUUC's "Building Your Own Theology" workshop will continue on Thursday evenings at 7pm until March 19. Please sign up on the clipboard at the rear of the sanctuary or contact religious_ed@bbuuc.org if you are planning to attend.

Building Your Own Theology:

   "Based on the assumption that everyone is their own theologian, this classic Unitarian Universalist adult education program invites participants to develop their personal credos, the fundamental religious beliefs, values and convictions that inform and direct the living of their lives. Gilbert poses five developmental tasks in which participants come to terms with human nature, ultimate reality, history, ethics and religious meaning."

Reiki

   The next Reiki session will be at noon on March 8 at BBUUC. Reiki is a spiritual practice which seeks to balance energy and promote self-healing.
   There is no need to undress. Just kick back and relax. Watch for the sign-up sheets at the rear of the sanctuary, and contact Rev. Pat Ray if you have any questions.
ICARE

ICARE

Feb 23: ICARE Justice Ministry at BBUUC

   BBUUC’s first annual ICARE Justice Ministry Meeting will be held February 23 at 7pm at BBUUC. The meeting is for anyone who wants to learn more about ICARE, as well as those who have already become Network Members. BBUUC members who are actively working with ICARE Research Committees will explain the issues ICARE is addressing, and explain the goals of the “Nehemiah Assembly” on April 20.

Mar 1: Commissioning Ceremony

   Our March 1 service about ICARE will include a Commissioning Ceremony for BBUUC’s ICARE Justice Ministry Network during the Sunday service.

Mar 24: ICARE Rally

   ICARE Network Members will hold a city-wide rally 7pm on March 24 at the Abyssinia Baptist Church. This will be an occasion for Justice Ministry Network members from BBUUC to meet network members from other ICARE congregations, hear about the progress of the Issue Research Committees, and get ready for the Nehemiah Assembly on April 20.
   Abyssinia Baptist Church is located at 10325 Interstate Center Drive, Jacksonville, FL 32218, near the intersection of Dunn Avenue and Interstate 95. We will arrange car-pooling; please contact social_action@bbuuc.org for more information.
CUUPS

CUUPS Schedule

   The Covenant of UU Pagans (CUUPS) will meet at 7pm on Wednesday, March 4 and 18.
   CUUPS provides a safe space within the BBUUC community where interested people can learn about and practice paganism. Contact cuups@bbuuc.org for more information.
CUUPs will host an open craft party for kids of all ages on March 18th, 7 PM. In honor of the Spring Equinox (Ostara), we will be decorating egg shaped boxes for keepsakes and we will have Spring coloring pages available as well.
Coffee Conversations

Coffee Conversations

   Each Sunday morning at 9:30, the Coffee Conversations group gathers for a friendly discussion of the issues of the day. All are welcome.
Pengree's Restaurant Directions

Lunch Bunch

   The Lunch Bunch will meet on Wednesday, March 11 at 11:30am at Pengree's Restaurant in Orange Park (556 Kingsley Ave). This group meets the second Wednesday of each month for food and fellowship. All are welcome! Please contact Frances Kennicutt or admin@bbuuc.org if you plan to join us, so that we can reserve a table at the restaurant.
Prayer Shawl Affinity Group

Prayer Shawl Affinity Group

   The Prayer Shawl affinity group creates shawls and lap blankets to comfort community members in need. The group will meet on the first Monday of each month, 10am-noon, at the Mandarin Panera (11111 San Jose Blvd). The next meeting will be March 2.
   If you would like to attend, please contact Lisa Cromar at prayershawls@bbuuc.org no later than the day before the meeting. If there are no RSVPs, the meeting will be cancelled.
BBUUCF

Christian Fellowship

   The Buckman Bridge Unitarian Universalist Christian Fellowship meets on the fourth Sunday of the month at 9am.
February 22: "Practicing Resurrection"
March 22: "Debunking the Rapture"
 
Small Town Gay Bar

WCM Film Series

   The Welcoming Congregation Ministry (WCM) is sponsoring a series of films highlighting issues that are familiar to the LGBTQ community. The March 20 movie will be Small Town Gay Bar:
   Movie screenings will start at 7pm. All are welcome; there is no admission. For more information, please contact lgbtq_welcoming@bbuuc.org

Small Town Gay Bar:

   “Deep in the heart of the ‘Bible Belt’, homosexuals still face intolerance and adversity. Several spirited bar owners, however, have shown the courage to create places for people to call home.”
Newcomer Classes

Newcomer Class Schedule

   If you are interested in becoming a member of BBUUC or learning more about BBUUC and UU history, here is the updated schedule for Newcomer classes. For more information, contact membership@bbuuc.org.
  • Saturday March 14 - Newcomer class--all 3 sessions
  • Sunday April 12 - New member ceremony

Choir of the Moment

   Another Choir of the Moment moment!  We have been requested to sing on March 8 for the pledge service. If you did not get the words to the songs, please contact Marilyn Smart.
   Our rehearsals will be Feb 22 and March 1, both at noon in the sanctuary. This looks like fun!
Faith Like a River

Faith Like a River

   Faith Like a River classes will continue Wednesday, April 1, 22 and 29, and May 6, 13 and 20 at 7pm. Sign-up sheets will be available in the sanctuary.
   Faith Like a River explores the dynamic course of Unitarian, Universalist, and Unitarian Universalist (UU) history—the people, ideas, and movements that have shaped our faith heritage. It invites participants to place themselves into our history and consider its legacies.
Earth Day Jacksonville 2015

BBUUC to Participate in Earth Day

   BBUUC will be participating in Jacksonville's Earth Day celebration at the Jacksonville Landing on April 18. Last year, we had an estimated 500 visitors at our booth! We are looking for volunteers to help us set up, clean up, and staff our booth at the fair. Please contact social_action@bbuuc.org if you can help.
Social Action

Buy One, Give One

   Unitarian Universalists have long been known for their generous support of good causes.  BBUUC is no exception. Your Social Action committee has taken on the Clothes Closet and Food Pantry of Orange Park as our next Community Outreach Project.
   The Clothes Closet provides emergency clothing, household items, food and financial aid. The "Closet" was organized in the early 1950's by a member of Orange Park Methodist Church and has continued to be a beacon of hope for so many families in crisis in Clay County.
   Our involvement will be to provide items that SNAP (Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program) does not.  These are the much needed items that we will be collecting:
PAPER TOWELS, TOILET PAPER, DIAPERS, FEMININE PRODUCTS, DEPENDS, TOILETRIES, DETERGENT, SOAP, SHEETS, BLANKETS, QUILTS, TOWELS, TOOTHBRUSHES, TOOTHPASTE
   These items can be placed in the provided laundry baskets at the back of the Sanctuary starting Sunday MARCH 1ST!
   We will be dropping off these items to the Clothes Closet on a weekly basis. There will also be flyers available for handy reference.
To Kill a Mockingbird

UUFSA: To Kill a Mockingbird

   February 27 at 6:30pm, the Unitarian Universalist Fellowship of St Augustine will host a night at the mUUvies to view "To Kill a Mockingbird" with Gregory Peck. The Best Years Of Our Lives, originally scheduled for that date, may be shown at a later time.
The Submission

UUFSA Book Club

   The Unitarian Universalist Fellowship of St Augustine (UUFSA) holds a book club one Thursday afternoon a month at 1pm. Schedules and additional information are posted in the UUFSA Quest newsletter
   March 17: The Submission, by Amy Waldman, led by Barbara Brenner.
   April 21: March, by Geraldine Brooks, led by Judy Weisberger.
The Quiet Man

MUUvies at UUFSA

   The second Friday of each month at 6:30pm, UUFSA hosts a night at the mUUvies.
   March 13: The Quiet Man (1952) Director John Ford and star, John Wayne, depart the Western for the Irish countryside, and the result is a beautifully photographed, often comedic romance.
Uncle Eddie and Robin

UUFSA Spring Fling

   Uncle Eddie and Robin will be performing at a coffee house fundraiser at the Unitarian Universalist Fellowship of St Augustine (UUFSA) on March 20, 7-9pm. That Friday will also be a full moon, and the first day of Spring, something we can all celebrate!
Journey Satisfaction Survey

Journey Satisfaction Survey

   Thank you to everyone who participated in last year's survey about the Journey. We gathered a lot of information about what people want to see in their church newsletter, and we have made quite a few changes to implement the improvements that people requested.
   We have a new survey to find out more about what our readers like and do not like about the way we are doing things now. The survey consists of seven radio-button-style questions over two pages, so it should only take a few minutes. All of the questions have an open text "other" answer that you can enter free-form if you have a concern or feedback that we did not capture in the pre-canned radio button selections.
https://www.surveymonkey.com/s/WLFK2RD

Thank you for your time,
Scott Cromar
PR/Communications co-chair
Calendar

Calendar:
March 2015

Click here for the BBUUC calendar: http://www.bbuuc.org/activitie

Announcements
Churchworks
Membership News
BBUUC News
Denominational News
Worship Services
   Many thanks to our members who attended the Congregational Meeting held on February 8th. We had 80 members there, well exceeding the super quorum needed (40 percent of 126 voting members) to approve Bylaw changes! We approved both the bylaw changes and the hiring of Rev. Jack Ford with a super majority of votes.
   My thanks to my Board colleagues, Ministry and Bylaw Task Force members for aiding with a fabulous meeting! This twenty minute meeting was a record at BBUUC for meeting smoothness and brevity. Looking at this as a precedent for future meetings, I believe the preparation done by both leaders and congregants set the stage for efficiency. By utilizing the Task Force model to oversee the process involved with big decisions, we are able to put the appropriate focus on the issues, offer advance opportunities for discussion and involvement of members, and educate the congregation about the issues before they vote. This makes the meeting with the actual vote run more smoothly, because the leg work and long discussions have already taken place.
   My grateful appreciation is extended to the Bylaw Task Force (Carl Shrader, Tina Nomura, Don DeStephano and John Sheffield) for their excellent work these past months! My gratitude also goes out to the Ministry Task Force (myself, Dale Crawford, Don DeStephano, Tara Crisp, Pam Richards, and Don Repass), who also worked diligently to examine, prepare and execute the appropriate process for bringing the proposed hire to the table.
   I would also like to extend special thanks to our Facilities volunteers who did an outstanding job of setting up for the luncheon and meeting, tending to the logistics and audio, cleaning up and reorganizing. Second, to the fantastic hospitality team who provided us all with a beautiful spread for lunch. We are so fortunate to have such talented, caring and skilled planners/caterers/chefs/culinary artists in Ken Weintraub, Lee Plumb, and all of their wonderful volunteers.
   The coming months are going to be busy, yet exciting times for our congregation. There should be plenty of opportunities for everyone to engage in social events, educational activities, social action, ministry, worship and governance. We will be transitioning into a congregation with a professional minister over the coming weeks, and we will have opportunities for education about Rev. Ford’s role, as well as our own roles as individuals, committees, ministries and leaders in this new relationship—a shared ministry.
   We are truly blessed in our congregation, and have much to be thankful for!
 
In love and faith,
Linda Mowers
President
Lifespan Religious Education
   This week, I'd like to talk about one of the dirty words of Unitarian Universalism: Faith. Like "money" or "God," "faith" is a word that we don't mention much in conversation. We shy away from it, wondering if it's rude to ask someone about their theology, or worse, if we will offend them if they're recovering from the effects of a previous religion or denomination.
   Yet we are a faithful people. Perhaps more so than any other religious group, Unitarian Universalists have faith. We have faith that we will make a difference in this world, and can make it better. We have faith that the heart of man is good. We have faith in one another, our community, our church, our world.
   If we did not have faith, then we would not show up for service on Sunday. We would keep away, afraid of being hurt, attacked, or even worse, bored.
   So it is strange to me, that we don't ever talk about what our faith truly is. Is it some amorphous word that takes into account many different things, or is it a single word to be defined, synonymous with loyalty or belief?
   The unknown denominator of love is where I believe that many Unitarian Universalist find our faith. In a creedless religion, I think this is extremely important, because our faith in one another, and our faith in love is what binds us together, and keeps us strong. It is what allows us to come together in covenant, and bring are many different styles of worship together.
   So, with that in mind, remember that we are all brothers and sisters in faith, and as such we should have compassion with one another. Remember and have faith in the 3 year old who cut in front of you in the Goldfish line, that they will one day grow up and lead the service you'll listen to. Remember that the unintentional microaggression made toward you when you were being introduced to a stranger, was out of ignorance, and help them understand how it hurt you. And remember that when someone is speaking with you in our church to assume positive intent. Have faith in this community--we're  all here because of our church, and our love for one another.

With Hope,
Dani Slader
Director of Religious Education
Stewardship

What Does Stewardship Mean?

If you open it, close it.
If you turn it on, turn it off.
If you unlock it, lock it up.
If you break it, admit it.
If you can't fix it, call in someone who can.
If you borrow it, return it.
If you value it, take care of it.
If you make a mess, clean it up.
If you move it, put it back.
If it belongs to someone else and you want to use it, get permission.
If you don't know how to operate it, leave it alone.
If it's none of your business, don't ask questions.
If it ain't broke, don't fix it.
If it will brighten someone's day, say it!

Anonymous

From: Life Prayers from Around the World
Submitted by Christine Jarman, LRE Chair

Our Recent Canvass:
What Have We Learned So Far?

   The 2015 BBUUC canvass is now officially over. 100 households (of 1 or 2 adult members) were canvassed, as well as RE Youth. 
   There is still much work to do. We will not have a finished canvass analysis to present to you for several weeks. All of this information must be studied and sorted, and will include your personal feelings and suggestions as well as more specific data. But we can give you some preliminary information about trends in your responses:
   Your favorite way of receiving church information is through e-mail. Facebook posts, regular mail, and phone texts come in a very distant second, third, and fourth.
   The most requested expenditure increases, in order of popularity, were as follows:
1. Facilities - notably parking, a children's playground, and transportation.
2. (virtually tied) Personnel (including more administrative hours)/Enriched Worship Services
3. (close behind and tied) Public Relations for our Church/ Ministerial Support Fund
   The majority of you were in favor of a trial effort to “share the (offering) plate” with designated charities at regular intervals. A wide variety of charities were suggested as recipients, and this data will be tallied and analyzed so that the chosen charities can be determined.
   We thank all of you who participated in this canvass. Our army of canvassers dedicated numerous hours to interviewing members and friends. And so many of you took the time and effort to answer their questions thoughtfully. Your opinions and suggestions will determine our direction in the coming year.

Sincerely,
The Stewardship Team

Buckman Bucks

Welcome to the 2015 Annual Pledge Drive!

   Once a year, and yes, only once a year; we ask you to submit a pledge to fund the operating costs of supporting our vision in the local community.  This is that time.
   This is a special year as we move forward from our first 25 years with our own building, a minister, and dreams to fulfill.  We finished the canvass, and we heard your voices asking for more space, more parking, a playground, full-time staff, and accessibility.  Now it is time to reflect on how each of us contributes to those possibilities.
   Kicking off on March 8th, we will celebrate all that is BBUUC by sharing information on what we can provide in the coming fiscal year financially.
   March 8th will be a special service with Reverend Jack Ford, music and refreshments.  Since that is Rev. Jack’s first official service as our minister, he has selected the cake flavor.  Sure to be delicious.
   Also, new this year – prizes!  We have received some fantastic donations for our timely submission drawing.  Prizes include:  gift cards, Ms. Frances’ banana pudding, Tara’s famous Chicken Pot Pie dinner, room at Best Western, and many more.
   We will have your packets ready to pick up after church on March 8th.  The packets will include the visionary budget brochure, FAQ and pledging information; plus a special gift from the Stewardship team.
   Submit your pledge information to finance by Sunday, March 22nd, to be eligible for the drawing.  The amount does not matter, just return your card. All households submitting by the 22nd will be placed in the pot to be drawn for prizes on Sunday, March 29th
   Want to submit early?  Can’t make it on March 8th?  You can submit at www.bbuuc.org under the “Donate” tab, or just contact Peg Christensen, Finance Chair, finance@bbuuc.org, or Dale Crawford, Treasurer, treasurer@bbuuc.org.
   Other questions?  See me at church, or email to reverendray@comcast.net

In faith for the future,
Rev. Pat
Stewardship Team
Pledge Drive Coordinator

From the BBUUC Worship Committee:


"Our Sources" Sermon Series

   Unlike most religions in America, Unitarianism Universalism doesn’t require our members to adhere to a specific set of beliefs. UU membership includes individuals who identify themselves as Buddhists, Christians, Daoists, Earth-Centered/Pagans, Hindus, Humanists/Atheists/Agnostics, Jews, Muslims, and other religious traditions. Many inter-faith couples find it a comfortable religious home in which both spouses can gain spiritual nourishment.
   We do not require people to reject their prior faith in order to join us. In fact, we celebrate and welcome this diversity. Unitarian Universalist congregations offer religious education and programs that provide opportunities for dedicated and respectful exploration of the world’s religions, practices and beliefs. We actively look for opportunities to engage.
   Historically, major concerns of Unitarian Universalism have included social justice and service to humanity. We were very active in the abolition of slavery. More recently, we are actively working towards achieving equal rights for women; and the attainment of equal rights, including the right to marry, without regard to sexual orientation. We have a cultural influence that is far beyond what one would expect from our numbers.
   Though UUs don’t have a doctrine or dogma, we have created, through the democratic process of our governance, a set of mutual principles--shared values and moral teachings, in spite of theological differences. In addition to the Principles, UUs have also identified sources from which our living tradition is drawn, including “wisdom from the world's religions which inspires us in our ethical and spiritual life.”
   Our 2015 BBUUC sermon series Our Sources will bring in clergy and scholars from world religions that we recognize as being influential and offering wisdom to all. Some of those traditions are showcased by the symbols that surround the window in the chancel of our sanctuary, including Christianity, Judaism, Buddhism, Daoism, Islam, Hinduism, Humanism and Earth-centered/Pagan. These guest speakers will share with the BBUUC congregation what they feel to be the universal message or wisdom that their faiths bring to the wider world.
Finance Reports

From the Desk
of the Treasurer

   This month, I wish to call the congregation’s attention to a new report that I hope will help the congregation better understand our financial circumstances. This report is the Statement of Financial Position by Restrictions report, which classifies all of our assets, liabilities, and equity into one of five classes.
   The Statement of Financial Position by Restricted Classes as of 31 January 2015 is presented on 3 pages in the Treasurer's February Board Report on the web site. The column labeled "Total" shows the total amounts of Assets, Liabilities, and Equity on the church’s books, and is identical to the normal Statement of Financial Position. Looking down that column to the line labeled as Total Current Assets, we find that the church has over $230,000 in current assets, which is an indication of our cash on hand and other highly liquid assets. Such a number seems to indicate that we are quite flush with money. I’m sure that you can anticipate the “however” that is about to occur.
   Among our assets on page 1, please note the column labeled Unrestricted Funds. The number in that column on the row labeled Total Assets is a key number in understanding our finances. This number represents the amount of cash that we have on hand to pay for our ongoing operational expenditures, including our quarterly mortgage payments, without affecting reserves or borrowing from restricted funds. As you can see, we have about $30,000 in unrestricted cash at this time. Where did the other $200,000 go?
   If you look in the three columns further to the right, you will see columns labeled Board Designated Reserves, Temporarily Restricted Funds, and Permanently Restricted Funds. The other $200,000 can be found in these three columns -- $88,000 in Board Designated Reserves, $104,000 in Temporarily Restricted Funds, and $10,000 in Permanently Restricted Funds.
   Board Designated Reserves are shown in detail on page 3 of the report, under Equity. There are three designated reserves --- the Capital Repair & Replacement Fund, the Operating Reserve Fund, and the Temporary Holding Fund. These reserves can be used for supporting our general operations when needed.
   Temporarily Restricted Funds include a number of funds set up for special purposes, including such funds as Beacon, the Emergency Caring Fund, the Ministerial Support Fund, and Pennies from Heaven. The complete list can be seen in the Equity section under Temporarily Restricted Net Assets. The monies in these funds cannot legally be used for any purpose other than their stated purpose.
   Permanently Restricted Funds are limited to our Endowment Fund and the Endowment Holding Fund. The latter fund contains money contributed to the endowment, which will be invested in the Endowment Fund once we have accumulated at least $1,000, the minimum contribution amount that the Endowment Fund will accept.
   As you can see, while we do have a significant amount of current, liquid assets, most of these current assets are allocated to other purposes, leaving us with about $30,000 that is available to pay for our ongoing operational expenditures, including our quarterly mortgage payments. But keep in mind that as recently as December, 2013, our unrestricted current assets were almost non-existent, and our general reserves were non-existent. We thank the congregation members for their increased giving, and the Shupps and our anonymous donor family who collectively have significantly improved our church’s financial health.

Dale Crawford
Treasurer
PR and Communications

Letter from the Editor

 

Transparency

   Our Fifth Principle tells us that we affirm and promote “the right of conscience and the use of the democratic process.” Transparency is one of the main tools we use to allow people to have their say in a working democratic process.
   Transparent processes allow the work of the congregation to proceed in a visible, predictable, and understandable manner. Leaders of the community are accountable and answerable to the congregation, and transparency helps serve that goal.
   Some of the characteristics of a transparent process are:
  • Common sense. Convoluted or arbitrary processes tend to hide what is happening from observers.
  • Consensus. Transparent processes are defined in an environment where input is welcome and accepted.
  • Public. The process should be documented and published in an easily read, well-known forum.
  • Confidential. Some information is confidential and should not be available for public scrutiny. But unclear boundaries can lead to a situation where important discussions take place in the dark. The boundaries between public and private information should be defined, documented, and published.
   Some ways we foster transparency at BBUUC:
  • Open meetings: Almost all meetings at BBUUC are publicized and open to the membership. The only exceptions are meetings where personal confidential information is discussed.
  • Council reports: Committees and ministries submit monthly activity reports to the Board. Those reports are available to members on the web site.
  • Meeting minutes: Council and Board meeting minutes are available on the web site. Minutes for other important meetings are also published to the web site upon approval.
  • Financial reports: The Treasurer and Finance Chair have worked to make the church’s financial reports as accessible and readable as possible, and they publish reports on the church’s finances to the web site on a monthly basis.
  • Town Hall and Congregational meetings: These are places where we discuss important issues of congregational governance, and where members can vote on what actions the congregation should take.
  • Journey newsletter: The PR committee gathers information on what is happening in the congregation and publishes it in a monthly newsletter and a weekly email bulletin. The monthly newsletter includes columns from the President, Treasurer and Director of Religious Education.
  • Social Media: BBUUC uses a number of social media outlets to foster healthy communication. We have a Yahoo! email group, a Facebook page, a Facebook group, and a Twitter feed in addition to a frequently-updated web site and online calendar.
   Having good forums to publish information is great, but it is only useful if we, as members, provide useful feedback. If we do not exercise our rights under the democratic process, we will lose them.

Scott Cromar
PR/Communications co-chair
Announcements
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BBUUC News
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Membership

Joys and Concerns
  • Our thoughts and prayers are with Mark Yount, whose father passed away recently.
  • Best wishes to David Kattreh, as he recovers from surgery.
  • We continue to wish a speedy recovery for Barry Mowers, as he prepares for his surgery on March 4 and 11.
  • We wish Carol Waters well, as she recovers from emergency surgery.
Happy Anniversary

Happy Anniversary!

Kris and Bill Kines (Mar 11)
Beth and Topher Christiansen (Mar 16)
Melinda and Paul Kluding (Mar 17)
Shanna and Jay Gardner (Mar 19)
John and Leslie Sheffield (Mar 27)
Myrna and Don Kissinger (Mar 29)
Happy Birthday

Happy Birthday!

Cliff Maskell (Mar 8)
Ron Rothberg (Mar 9)
Tara Crisp (Mar 12)
Nikki Genevieve (Mar 12)
Pam Richards (Mar 25)

Introducing Meghan Kaminsky


   I am originally from Tucson, AZ. After a series of out of state moves (From Tucson to Jax, Jax to Canton, OH, Canton to Bennettsville, SC) I landed here in Green Cove Springs. I am in love with the greater Jacksonville area and love it's diversity and all it has to offer.
   My family consists of myself, my husband (who is still living in SC), my oldest son in Charleston who just graduated basic training, and my two younger sons Merric and Rune, who you will see with me at church. Our family also includes a standard poodle (Solstice), and four cats (Beast, Agnes, Shaman, and Tyeeba).
   I am a dog groomer by trade, it is not just a profession, but a passion. In South Carolina, I owned my own home-based salon and also had a mobile grooming service for my clients. I attend grooming seminars every year and also hone my skills in competitive grooming. I am currently working on a 'creative grooming' design on my poodle for a creative grooming competition. I work for a salon located in Fruit Cove.
   My other passions are Middle Earth, U2, Horses, fantasy books, and learning about homesteading, though I am a miserable gardener.
   I was raised Catholic, and even went to “Sunday School” every Sunday before mass until I was in the 6th grade. In middle school I began to question things about the Catholic faith, and those questions were always unanswered, or the answers did not make sense to me.
   That's when I first read 'Wicca: A Guide for the Solitary Practitioner' by Scott Cunningham. I was hooked on Witchcraft from then on. It was a way of life that spoke to me and that I keep close to my heart even though I have branched far away from my original Wicca practices.
   Over the years, my personal tradition became a hodge-podge of different Pagan (and even Catholic) practices, and I began to feel that Paganism didn't quite include all that spoke to me. During a spiritualist convention in Columbus, OH I saw a booth of Unitarian Universalists and picked up some literature. Much to my surprise, many of it's philosophies and principles aligned with the solo witchcraft tradition I was crafting for myself!
   There were no UU churches near me and I was very involved with the Pagan community in Canton at that time, so it was something that just got shuffled to the back of my mind for later use. When I moved to SC I was a complete fish out of water. Baptists, Baptists everywhere and not a Pagan in sight! Part of my decision to leave SC was because of the isolation I felt and the desire for a community in which my children and I could find a home.
   In canvassing possible communities before the move, I remembered that literature I picked up on U Us so long ago and did a bit of on line searching and found the BBUUC's website. I decided to attend a service and have felt at home from day one! My sons also love the church and look forward to coming every Sunday. Our goals are to become more involved and make friends in the church while growing and evolving on our individual spiritual paths.
New Member Ceremony

Welcome Our New Members!

  In the February 8 New Member ceremony, the congregation welcomed several new members. With Rev. Jack Ford and Board President Linda Mowers, Membership Co-chairs Pam Richards and Grace Repass welcomed Chuck Boyer, Colleen Goodwin, Jon Kramek and Scarlet LeBlanc to our community.
   Jim and Judy Niss, who are familiar faces in our congregation, have also signed the membership book.
Membership Anniversaries

BBUUC Membership Anniversaries

Karen Roberts (1998)
Nikki Genevieve (2008)
Lucy Warner (2008)
Karen and Ken Christiansen (2011)
Vanessa Birchell (2012)
Lisa and William Cromar (2012)
Joshua Dean (2013)
David Austin (2013)

Represent BBUUC

   BBUUC is accepting applications for delegates to General Assembly in Portland June 24-28, and District Assembly in Orlando April 17-19. These delegates should become familiar with issues of District or UUA governance, represent the interests of the congregation in votes, and bring information back to the broader congregation. Application forms, including expectations and requirements, are available on the church web site.
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BBUUC News

BBUUC Hires Rev Jack Ford

   In the February 8 congregational meeting, members of BBUUC voted overwhelmingly to extend a contract to Rev Jack Ford to become our half-time minister.
   This vote culminated a process including several Town Hall meetings and extensive study by a special task force consisting of Don DeStephano, Linda Mowers, Dale Crawford, Don Repass, Tara Crisp, and Pam Richards.
   BBUUC members also approved changes to the Bylaws removing term limits for the Treasurer, changing the requirements for membership, and updating the document to reflect the increased role of the Southern Region and expected dissolution of the Florida District. The updated Bylaws are available on the web site.
Rev. Jack Ford

BBUUC's New Minister

   Rev. Jack Ford is uniquely qualified as a minister for BBUUC. As a long-time member of the congregation, he understands the strong volunteer-led personality at BBUUC, and appreciates what the volunteers bring to the table.
   He is a Jacksonville native, who graduated from Wolfson High School and also attended Terry Parker High School. His mother and two brothers currently live in Switzerland, which is listed as Jack’s permanent address.
   Jack's skill as a carpenter is well-known in the area. His 27-year career as a carpenter started by chance, when his car broke down and he lost his job with Greenpeace. He found a job as an apprentice carpenter, then took over when his boss left the business six months later. Although he loves working with wood, he looks forward to being able to devote more energies to the ministry.
   Rev. Ford grew up as a Baptist, and began his theological studies at Stetson University and Southern Baptist Theological Seminary. At the UU Church of Jacksonville, he found a mentor in the Rev. John DeWolf-Hurt. As a result of this relationship, Jack entered the ministry as a Fellowshipped (Preliminary) UU minister and served at the Valdosta UU Church for seven years.
   He has continued his studies in a number of different venues, including the Florida State School of Social Work, as well as training in Clinical Pastoral Education at the University Medical Center. He has a strong background in eastern religions and Native American spirituality.
   The half-time position with BBUUC will aid Jack in completing his Final Fellowship certification with the UUA. This is an exciting time for both Rev. Ford and BBUUC, and we look forward to travelling this path together.

Romanza Fundraiser Successful

   Participants enjoyed a night of dinner, dancing and romance at BBUUC's Romanza fundraiser on Valentine's Day. The event raised a significant amount for BBUUC's Ministerial Support Fund.
   "BBUUC's dinner and dance Romanza proved to be a simple ballad of enjoyment.  An atmospheric evening of music, food, dancing, and laughter.  It was a time of joy, a time for sharing, and a time for community," said John Giordano, one of the organizers.
Ministerial Support Fund

Ministerial Support Fund Update

   Thanks to the generosity of the congregation, the Ministerial Support Fund balance is over $30,000. (Donations to the Ministerial Support Fund are doubled thanks to a matching grant by an anonymous donor.) If you are current on your 2014/15 pledge, you can contribute to the Ministerial Support Fund by specifying "MSF" on the memo field of your check or on a donation envelope.

Key Leadership Positions Filled

   It is my pleasure to announce the recent appointments of committee chairpersons in two key roles. Our Worship Committee and Membership Committee both had recent leadership vacancies. The Board is pleased to have Pam Richards and Grace Repass accept the appointments of positions as Co-Chairs of the Membership Committee. We are also pleased to have Jennifer Stokes and Bernie Powers accept appointments as Co-Chairs of the Worship Committee. Each of these volunteers brings great leadership skills to the table in their respective roles, and we are grateful to have their service and commitment to these important areas of ministry in our congregation.

Linda Mowers
on behalf of the BBUUC Board

Church Bazaar: March 28

   We will hold a church bazaar fundraiser on Saturday, March 28. Past bazaars have been excellent fundraisers for the congregation, and we look forward to another successful event. When you do your spring cleaning, please hold onto your surplus treasures for us!
   Donations can be left at the church starting on March 22. We will be doing the setup for the sale on Friday, March 27.
   We also need volunteers to pull off a successful activity. Please contact Joann Carollo, John Giordano, or Ken Weintraub if you can help.
Memorial Garden

BBUUC Breaks Ground on Memorial Garden


   Do you enjoy working outdoors?  Love growing and caring for plants and flowers?
Memorial Garden
   Consider joining the other resident green thumbs and play a part in the creation of our first exterior beautification project.  We are in need of extra helping hands, material donations and design planners, so look for the new suggestion & sign up box in our sanctuary for additional information!
2015/16 Budget Process

2015/16 BBUUC Budget

   The Finance Committee is in the process of building the 2015/16 BBUUC Budget. Committee and Ministry leadership should already have submitted their estimated budget requests to finance@bbuuc.org.
   As the budget is assembled, you can track the progress on the web site at http://www.bbuuc.org/budget-process/ .
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Denominational News

Marching in the Arc of Justice

Marching in the Arc of Justice

   March 5-7 marks the Living Legacy Project's return to Selma to commemorate the 50th Anniversary Bridge Crossing. Unitarian Universalists will return to Selma to honor UU martyrs, the Rev. James Reeb and Viola Liuzzo, and reflect what their courage and the courage of countless others require of us in 2015. 
   Click here for a fact sheet on the 50th anniversary of the Selma voting rights campaign.
Universalist Convocation 2015

Universalist Convocation 2015

   Preparations are underway to host the 2015 Universalist Convocation at BBUUC. Please help us to publicize the event on any blogs or social media accounts you have access to. We have artwork available that you can use, a simple file that can be used as a banner ad, or a larger file that can be used as a content block.
   For more information about the Convocation, please speak with Rev. Pat Ray or go to the Convocation web site at www.BBUUC.org/uc2015.
Free the Giant Within

Social Justice Empowerment

   The Northeast Florida Cluster Social Empowerment Workshop, "Free the Giant Within," will be held on March 21 at the First Unitarian Universalist Church of Orlando. Additional information will be publicized on the UU Justice Florida web site. The workshop will prepare you to be more mindful and energetic as you plan and act for change in your church community and/or in the community beyond the church walls.
   In the morning session, Rev. Bud Murphy, professionally involved in helping individuals achieve their human potential for over 40 years, will guide participants through exercises that will help them clarify their motivations and gain insights on how they can increase their personal impact.
   The afternoon breakout sessions will guide each group toward excitement and action. The three breakout sessions are as follows: Environmental Justice, A Message that Delivers, and A Project’s First Steps. Irene and Bob Keim, Ministry of Earth president and UUSC leaders, will lead the environmental justice session. Lois Cole, ministerial intern at First Unitarian of Orlando, will offer guidelines for message preparation for church and beyond and then offer you the opportunity to prepare and deliver your own messages. Nancy Nordyke-Shelley, involved in the Justice for All Coalition of Central Florida, an affiliate of the STOP Mass Incarceration Network, a group that works to reduce mass incarceration and racism, will guide you through the steps for starting a grassroots organization in an area of concern.
UU Justice Florida

UU Justice Florida Legislative Day March 22-23

      Unitarian Universalists and friends from around the state will come to Tallahassee for education and training about how our legislature works, and for face to face meetings with legislators.  Participants will gather for dinner Monday, March 23 at 5:00 PM at the Unitarian Universalist Church of Tallahassee.
   The keynote speaker Monday evening is Lakey Love, a graduate student and teaching assistant at Florida State University, who will address corporate control of education and the student rebellion against Koch-funding at FSU. Additional information is available on the UU Justice Florida web site.
UUA Board Meeting

UUA Board Meeting Webcast

   Members of the UUA community from around the world took advantage of the webcast of the January 26 UUA Board meeting to observe and comment on the proceedings. UU World posted an article about the topics discussed in the meeting, and participants in the webcast expressed their opinions via social media in real time.
Statement on SKSM Controversy

UUA Statement on SKSM Controversy

   Jim Key, Unitarian Universalist Association (UUA) moderator and the Rev. Peter Morales, UUA president, issued this statement regarding an ongoing conflict at the Starr King School for the Ministry (SKSM):
   "Over the past several months, the ongoing conflict at Starr King School for the Ministry has received national attention in print and social media. We have watched with growing sadness the progression of charges and counter-charges, a situation that harms both a great Unitarian Universalist institution and our entire Unitarian Universalist movement.
   Neither the UUA Board of Trustees nor the Administration has any authority over the school. SKSM is an independent institution with its own governance structure and funding sources. SKSM is not directly responsible to the UUA nor dependent on the UUA for funding, although it does receive grants from the Panel on Theological Education.
   But we are profoundly dismayed by the heated rhetoric and broken relationships that this situation has produced. And as other UU organizations are pulled into the conflict, we see the ill will spreading. This situation does not reflect who we aspire to be as religious people.
   It is our hope that everyone involved in this unfortunate situation will answer the call to be their best selves, to look with love and respect on those with whom they disagree, and together find a just and equitable resolution to this conflict."
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Worship Services

Worship Services

Schedule of Services

Services are held Sundays at 10:30 a.m. at
8447 Manresa Avenue, Jacksonville, FL 32244
Church Phone: (904) 276-3739 • Website: www.BBUUC.org
Check the BBUUC Calen
dar for information on other programming.

Pennies from Heaven is March 1

   Please bring your extra change for a special collection to benefit our local Meals on Wheels program.

March 1 Speaker:

Kristin Powell

"Disrupting the Narrative"

 

Worship Leader: Candace Gerding Barone
Accompanied By: Ellen Miceli

   Lead Organizer Kristin Powell will present the ICARE story: challenging injustice in Jacksonville. This not-for-profit organization has been operating for seventeen years with a mission to address citywide concerns related to jobs, education, youth crime, homelessness, and mental health. 
   BBUUC will also have a Commissioning Ceremony for BBUUC’s ICARE Justice Ministry Network during the Sunday service.
 

Introducing Kristin Powell

    About our Speaker: In her freshman year of college, Kristin Powell went to New Orleans to help out after Hurricane Katrina.  After what she witnessed, Kristin changed her major to urban geography.  Upon graduation she came to ICARE to help organize the faith community to fight unfair practices. She has coordinated three major campaigns.  In the last year alone, 87 schools have implemented restorative justice practices as an alternative to suspension and/or arrest.
Rev Jack Ford

March 8 Speaker:

Rev. Jack Ford

"Why Church Matters"

 

Worship Leader: Jennifer Stokes
Worship Associate: Rev Pat Ray
Accompanied By: Gary Smart

Welcome to Stewardship Sunday!  What better time to reflect on the significance of Church and all of its attendant activities?  Let us take this time to reflect on what it means to belong to Buckman Bridge Unitarian Universalist Church, and to the Association with which it stands.
 

Introducing Rev. Jack Ford

Rev. Jack Ford is minister of BBUUC.  Jack studied at Stetson University and Southern Baptist Theological Seminary.  As a Fellowshipped (Preliminary) UU minister, he served at the Valdosta UU Church for seven years.  Jack is currently working towards his Final Fellowship certification with the UUA Ministerial Services Committee.
Dr Parvez Ahmed

March 15 Speaker:

Dr. Parvez Ahmed

"Islam and You" (Our Sources Series)

 

Worship Leader: Ron Rothberg
Accompanied By: Eileen Morrison
 

The second of the eight part “Our Sources Series,” Dr. Ahmed will explain how Americans in general and Unitarian Universalists in particular, honor and draw upon Muslim wisdom traditions.
 

Introducing Dr. Parvez Ahmed

Dr. Parvez Ahmed is Director Of The Center For Sustainable Business Practices and Associate Professor Of Finance at the Coggin College of Business, UNF.  In 2009 he was named a U.S. Fulbright Scholar. Dr. Ahmed is a member of Jacksonville’s Human Rights Commission and serves on the boards of the Museum Of Science And History and the World Affairs Council Of Jacksonville.
Rev Jack Ford

March 22 Speaker:

Rev. Jack Ford

"Are You a Spider Or A Fly?"

 

Accompanied By: Gary Smart

At this time in history, our Unitarian Universalist Seventh Principle has never been more meaningful or more significant for life on earth.  The 'web of existence' in which we find ourselves is an apt metaphor: do we help create it or simply stick to the script we have been dealt?  How can we affirm this wonderful life we have been given, and work together as a church community to affirm and promote respect for this miraculous existence?
 

Introducing Rev. Jack Ford

Rev. Jack Ford is minister of BBUUC.  Jack studied at Stetson University and Southern Baptist Theological Seminary.  As a Fellowshipped (Preliminary) UU minister, he served at the Valdosta UU Church for seven years.  Jack is currently working towards his Final Fellowship certification with the UUA Ministerial Services Committee.
Kristin Keen

March 29 Speaker:

Kristin Keen

"The Power of Hope"

Worship Leader: Joann Carollo
Accompanied By: Eileen Morrison


To fight the sex trade in Jacksonville, Kristin formed relationships with women on the street and by making prison visits.  She learned that the greatest need was for a safe, supportive work environment where these women could earn money while learning a skill and experiencing healing through community.
 

Introducing Kristin Keen:

Rethreaded Director Kristin Keen lived and worked for five years in India where she encountered the life-stealing effects of the sex trade on a daily basis. Kristin helped co-found Sari Bari, a thriving business that employs more than 90 people and offers these women a safe haven.  Upon her return to Jacksonville, Kristin felt called to fight the sex trade on a local level, and Rethreaded was born.
BBUUC Sermons on the Web

Recent Sermons on the Web

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Buckman Bridge Unitarian Universalist Church offers a warm, diverse,and welcoming community that embraces intellectual and spiritual growth for all ages.
-BBUUC Mission Statement

   The Journey is the official newsletter of the Buckman Bridge Unitarian Universalist Church. It is distributed monthly by electronic means to members and friends of the BBUUC community. If you would like to subscribe, please send an email to publishing@bbuuc.org.
   Physical printouts of the Journey are also available at the Membership Table in the Sanctuary. (If a pledging member of the community does not have home Internet or computer access, a mailed printout can be requested from admin@bbuuc.org, or by contacting the church administrator at 904-276-3739.)
   If you have comments or suggestions about the format or content of the Journey, please contact the editorial team at publishing@bbuuc.org.
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