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Worship and Celebration
"In these challenging times, it is especially important to consider
our spiritual connection with nature and how that relationship nurtures and sustains us as we seek to
heal the brokenness of the world. We are not called by an external authority, but by an increased
attention to our own inner truth. A healthy Earth-based spirituality is a way to be fully at home in
our lives and on this earth. A strong spirit helps us to weather the storms of life. For many, that
spirit is nurtured by an intimate connection with nature." ~ Green Sanctuary Program Manual
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August 5, 2012
Carnivorism, Conservation, Coddling and Consciousness: Polarities and Paradoxes in our Emerging
Relations with Animals" -- Gene Myers, Guest Speaker
Gene Myers, Professor of Environmental Studies at Huxley College, will
explore some of the ways our relations with animals and with "animality" have become blurred in
contemporary society. Society's practices and beliefs about animals run in countercurrents and
turbulence. We surround ourselves with animal issues and celebrate animals and animality, while
free-living populations of wild species diminish and become more marginal to our everyday existence.
These observations suggest vexing questions about what our relations to animals should be. Dr. Myers'
work is at the intersection of human ecology, psychological development, biodiversity conservation,
and environmental education. He is author of The Significance of Children and Animals.
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July 29, 2012 • Summer Service 10:30 am
"Dare to be a Force of Nature" -- Matt Krogh, North Baykeepers
Respect for the interdependent web of all existence of which we are a
part is the UU 7th principle. Lindsay Taylor, North Sound Baykeeper Team Project Coordinator,
will explore this principle with a focus on coal and water. What are some of the potential
effects of the proposed Gateway Pacific Terminal on our marine ecosystems? There are costs
and benefits for our local community to consider, in addition to far-reaching impacts all
over the globe. When we recognize our part in the web, does this lead to a sense of personal
responsibility? Do our UU values call us to take the time to analyze all the complexities, or
do we simply believe that "once all the rainforests are cut down, once all the rivers have
dried up, and once all the resources are diminished, we will finally realize we can't eat money.
"What is a faithful response?
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June 24, 2012
"Back to the Earth, Naturally"
10:30 am
Brian Flowers, guest speaker. What if as one of your last acts you could honor
your reverence for the environment as well as serve your family's needs for remembrance? Brian Flowers
designed and developed The Meadow Natural Burial Ground at Greenacres, where he is the Cemeterian and
Green Burial Coordinator. He also serves as President of The Green Burial Council, an international
non-profit engaged in eco-certification. A gifted storyteller, Brian has long been active in the Bellingham
Storytellers Guild. Come learn about the opportunities for creating meaning and the ecological benefits of natural
burial, illustrated by a story based on a Roman myth, plus a CHILDREN'S story. MUSIC: Clarinet and piano
start our season with "Summertime."
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July 29, 2012
"Dare to be a Force of Nature" -- Matt Krogh, Guest Speaker
Respect for the interdependent web of all existence of which we are a
part is the UU 7th principle. Matt Krogh, North Sound Baykeeper Project Leader,
will explore this principle with a focus on coal and water. What are some of the potential
effects of the proposed Gateway Pacific Terminal on our marine ecosystems? There are costs
and benefits for our local community to consider, in addition to far-reaching impacts all
over the globe. When we recognize our part in the web, does this lead to a sense of personal
responsibility? Do our UU values call us to take the time to analyze all the complexities, or
do we simply believe that "once all the rainforests are cut down, once all the rivers have
dried up, and once all the resources are diminished, we will finally realize we can't eat money.
"What is a faithful response?.
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June 10, 2012
Warm, Fuzzy Flower Communion
Andy Marshall, Crystal Neva, The Rev. Doug Wadkins. One of our favorite
story-driven celebrations of flower communion for all ages. To participate just bring an open mind,
heart and a flower from your garden or wherever to share!
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April 22, 2012: Earth Day - What a Day!!!
Adult Sunday Forum: Terry Meyer of Cascade Wind Company.
Terry spoke about alternative energy and about his efforts to
bring wind power to Whatcom County. Terry also provided BUF with a carbon offset certificate!
From Terry: "That Certificate basically confirms that a Megawatt Hour of energy we generated from our
turbine was generated on your behalf to offset the carbon and electrical use of that service. We would all
like to not be emitting carbon with our regular activities, but we all have cars that burn gas and our
electricity is 1/3 from coal. What we can do is make sure that we have done something else that removes
or avoids the emission of carbon. That certificate says that about 1000 pounds of carbon were saved by
our wind turbine to compensate for the driving and electricity that was required for your service. The
certificate's value now is potentially as something to display to remind people that the church takes
carbon and renewable energy seriously. I know you recently stopped buying green power, I wanted to give
you this (it is worth about $40) to fill the gap until the church can afford to and decides on another
carbon mitigation strategy. I don't know what your electrical usage is but if you wanted to see this
as only offsetting your electricity, and not congregant's driving, then my guess is it will supply the
renewable energy for your church for a couple of months (look at your bill, this is 1000 kWh). This
certificate shows that, assuming you stopped PSE's program recently, you have not lapsed in your committement
to renewable energy powering your church." Thank you ever so much Terry!!
Sunday Worship Service: Dana Lyons is back!
For those of you who did't know Dana, he's a local
musician, author and environmentalist who's world renown. His music including "Cows
With Guns" is known all over the globe as well as his work with Dr. Jane Goodall.
He also has an award-winning entitled "The Tree". Dana has performed at BUF before
and is gracing us with his presence once, again. And how appropriate it be on Earth
Day!! To see more information on Dana, go to the Earth Music section on this page for a link
our Earth Music page and a link to Dana's website.
Social Justice Collection: Matt Krogh of ReSources.
April's Social Justice Collection went to RE Sources this
month for their diligence, activism and tireless watchdogging of the Gateway Pacific
Terminal project. Through all of their programs and events, ReSources has been working
steadily to make sure the Whatcom County community understands the social, economic,
environmental and health implications and impacts of the GPT.
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January 8, 2012 - 9:15 and 11:15 am
Responding to Fear, Part 2: Finding Hope in Stories of Grassroots Success
The Rev. Barbara Gilday, guest speaker
While there is a lot of fear mongering in our country that conspires
to get us down, hard times and injustice create creativity and energy for change. There is a
grassroots swell of invididual, small and large movements working for change. Are we feeding
the fear by our anxious reactions, or are we cooperating with the winds of change? Bellingham
leads this country in many experimental sustainable programs. Let's be faithful agents of change
in other ways, too.
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September 11, 2011 • 9:15 am and 11:15 am
"The Waters of Life—Ingathering 2011"
The Rev. Doug Wadkins, Crystal Neva, Andy Marshall and the BUF Choir.
Join us as we return to two services and celebrate our Ingathering! It is time to congregate
and launch forth into another year together. We will honor our summers, commemorate important
moments and consecrate our community as we journey on.
Bring a small offering of water to symbolize the essence of your summer. We will take
in part in our annual Water Communion, marking the sacred gifts of these moments for deepening our common journey!
Join us between services at about 10:30 for an extra special Grand Coffee Hour, served downstairs in our social
hall with special goodies and a chance to greet old friends and make new ones!
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August 27, 2011 - An Earth and Spirit Songfest and Concert Fundraiser with Jim Scott
BUF once again hosted UU Jim Scott in a performance that allowed us to lend our voices
to an extemporaneous vocal celebration of earth and peace. Drawing on his own music and other songs of ecology,
diversity, community and peace from classical to jazz to world folk music, Jim turned the audience into a choir,
taught by ear and with an invitation to all to join in.
The joyful music of all sorts inspired and educated. It was a great demonstration of music that can be
used in our spiritual gatherings and in the greater movement for social change. (NOTE: Jim Scott is the composer
of several of our favorite UU hymns as well as "The Rainforest Song" that the children's choir sang this past year)
Jim is also one of the founders of the Seventh Principle Project/Green Sanctuary Program for UUs. He was here
was here several years ago when we kicked off our journey throught the Green Sanctuary Program.
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July 24, 2011 - Bill Scarvie, Guest Speaker: "The Face of Oppression"
The face of oppression has dominated the news recently. It is seen in the angry faces of people
demanding freedom, and in the angry faces of rulers willing to kill to maintain their privileged
position. Is the face of oppression still seen here in America? Is it waning as racial
minorities gain economic and political clout? Or is its complexion simply changing?
Bill Scarvie is a long-time lay leader of Unitarian Universalist worship. Following a calling to
help ensure a positive future, he has brought his vision of Earth Community to many UU congregations
and has also facilitated workshops at congregational, district, and national gatherings. His work is
inspired by the writings of David Korten, Joanna Macy, Thomas Berry and Brian Swimme. Bill resides on
Bainbridge Island with his wife, Karen, and is a member of the Cedars UU Church.
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A potluck was held in the social hall following the service and a workshop was held from
1:00 pm -3:00 pm. The workshop called "Real Security in Hard Times" was co-sponsored by Transition Whatcom
and Mr. Scarvie presented the essentials of creating a Resilience Circle (new name for the Common Security Club).
This a place where people build relationships to increase their personal security in a rapidly changing world. The
three components are learning together, mutual aid and social action.
July 17, 2011 "Gathering of All Tribes, Quickening of the Spirit" with Robert Lester
and Rashani Rea
Robert Lester's native background
is Ojibway/Huron and his understanding of traditional medicine culture gives a unique
and powerful perspective. He also has background as a corporate communications specialist
and teacher trainer. The One People Foundation, recently formed by Robert, has as its
cornerstone universal civility and respect. As told to Robert by an Elder, "There will
be a time of the Gathering." People of many different backgrounds and sources will meet
and begin to recognize each other as family and tribe. This 'Gathering' will be unlike
anything in history. It will not recognize similarity of skin color, personal conditions
or need.
It will recognize the affinity of the quality of Spirit. This
Gathering of the Tribes is happening now and with it a Quickening of the Spirit is
being felt by many. Robert will discuss solid ways of how people can connect. We gather
from the most diverse,
through a fire of recognition and from that we ignite the spirit unity of our families and
our tribes. Our distinguished guest musician, Rashani Rea, has sung for Thich Nhat Hanh's
U.S. retreats and public talks. She is also a collage artist, poet, social/eco-activist,
retreat leader and land steward in Hawaii.
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Thursday, July 14, 2011 - "A Circle of Remembrance For Extinctions in the Modern Era"
with Emily Farrell
When loved ones die, we gather together to celebrate their lives, and grieve their
passing. The extinction of a species, however, generally goes unnoticed and unremarked,
except by indigenous peoples, naturalists and other lovers of places.
According to the IUCN Red List, 76 mammals have gone extinct in the modern era. But that
is just the tip of the iceberg. We are in the midst of what is called the 6th Extinction.
An estimated 1 in 4 mammals are threatened with extinction. Also 12% of all plants, 1 in 8
birds, 1 in 3 known amphibians, and fully half of all known species of fish. (The Sixth
Extinction by Terry Glavin (pub. 2006)
This circle was a time to come together in remembrance of those who are gone. We
filled the space left in their absence with the sound of their names, celebrating the ebb and
flow of life and the interconnectedness of all, with prayers and blessing for the world.
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Faciliator: Emily Farrell, MA LMHC, ecopsychologist, psychotherapist, minister of the Universal
Worship, has 30 years of study and practice of spirituality and nature, including training with
Joanna Macy.
June 19, 2011
"Flower Communion" – The Rev. Doug Wadkins and Andy Marshall.
10:30 am
Many joined us for this traditional "welcoming of summer" celebration that also honors the
importance of the unique gifts we bring to the world. This BUF Community service invited all ages to
participate by bringing a flower to share with the congregation, preferably one that has some significance
or meaning to them. In keeping with the Unitarian Universalist tradition of Flower Communion, everyone left
the service with a different flower that another member of the congregation brought.
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April 17, 2011
"Turn the World Around!" - The Rev. Doug Wadkins & Crystal Neva, Director of Lifelong Learning.
9:15 & 11:15 a.m.
BUF journeyed to the year 2310, when all was well-- the birds were singing, the breezes
were blowing and human beings were thriving in a world community of responsibility and compassion. It was the
time of year when members celebrated the Great Turning and met at Gathering Sites to sing songs and tell stories
about their eternal friends--the elements. We gathered to honor the earth, our ancestors and the wisdom of
children. Everyone was welcome to this unique and whimsical celebration of Earth Day. Religious education classes
were canceled so kids could participate in the service. Social Justice Collection: Maple Alley Inn, the
well-loved program to feed homeless people and families that we hosted and volunteer-staffed at BUF for over
20 years. Food Blessing: Non-perishable and monetary donations will be collected during the service to support
the Bellingham Food Bank. The blue bins in the entry hall are available all month long to collect your donations.
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March 6, 2011
BUF's "March 2011 Water For Life" Multigenerational Service - "Noah's Dilemma"
Services 9:15 am & 11:15 pm
As part of BUF's "March 2011: Water for Life" events in celebration
of our water theme for this year and in recognition of World Water day, our service will
reflect a water theme. "Noah's Dilemma" is a story by Greg Ward and adapted by our own Crystal
Neva. The new hope for the world is not found in getting rid of the worst of us, it is in bringing
out the best in each one of us. This service for all ages will tell a familiar story with a
few twists. The trouble really gets started when the Goddess of Love is away at a Grateful Dead
concert. All different kinds of people are invited onto the ark, and when they figure out how to
get along, the people end up being an example that challenges a vengeful Goddess and brings a
Goddess of morality to tears. We cannot hope to resolve the problems of climate change, water
shortages, and sustainability without figuring out how to get along and to do that we need to bring
the best we have to offer to the table. Come explore what that is in you--with your friends at BUF!
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"Starting Where You Are" and "The Three Pillars: People, Planet and Prosperity"
with the Rev. Doug Wadkins
March 27, 2011 • 9:15 & 11:15 am
This particular Sunday the 3 Pillars group hosted a community forum with a few of the local
social service organizations and a "Starting Where You Are" included a panel of social service organization representatives
including the Opportunity Council and the Whatcom Access to Healthcare Alliance. In the past
two years, it has become very clear that change can come quickly in our lives, and just as quickly it effects our
financial stability. The forum help to answer questions such as what would you do if circumstances changed radically
for you or someone you know? What can you do if you or someone you care about is currently in challenging situation?
How would you begin? Where can you turn for help? This is information that every person should know, for themselves
or for your friends and neighbors. During the second service Rev. Doug Watkins led asermon on "The Three Pillars: People,
Planet and Prosperity" designed to answer questions sucha as "How can Bellingham Unitarian Fellowship be a proactive part
of building a sustainable future that embraces the deep connections between ecological, economic and social justice?
Is it possible that we are a perfect community to be in the forefront of leading the way in a movement that just might
save our planet?
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"Going to the Desert: The Power of Rest, Renewal and Retreat"
with the Rev. Doug Wadkins
October 17, 2010 • 9:15 & 11:15 am
As we continue to explore how we find a sense of the sacred in times
of great uncertainty, we will look at the ancient image of going to the desert. Sacred stories abound of wise
ones heading to the desert in times when great clarity is needed. While there is no doubt that a retreat to the
great outdoors can be illuminating, there are ways that these stories can inform the wisdom that may be encountered
a little closer to home.
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October 10, 2010 - BUF's New Addition Grand Opening!
The Bellingham Unitarian Fellowship celebrated a major milestone when the church dedicated
its new addition at 1207 Ellsworth Street. The Reverend Doug Wadkins shared how this Unitarian Universalist congregation
stretched to build the new facility and what members envision for the future. The national Unitarian Universalist Association
recognized BUF as a Green Sanctuary since 2009. Saving energy and building "green" are among the ways the congregation
expressed its profound concern for the environment. BUF's new addition incorporated many "green" aspects using both the
LEED and Built Green Light Commercial certifications as guidelines. The service included music by BUF's choirs. Bagpipe
player Carl Hanson led a parade around the block and the weather was beautiful! An open house and reception followed.
BUF Green Sanctuary Team members were on hand on the main floor to answer questions and remind congregational members on
our recycling program during the reception.
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September 26, 2010 - "Economy and Ecology" By Rev. Doug Wadkins
At least one service a month this year will explore
what it means to be a community of concern that is charged with questing for justice. We will begin
our exploration with looking at some of the issues raised in our culture's tension between ecological
and economic concerns. There are many implications for what we might do together as a community, and
this service will not only explore them but offer some possibilities for action.
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September 12, 2010 - "Come As You Are: Ingathering Service"
- The Rev. Doug Wadkins, Crystal Neva, Director of Lifelong Learning, and Andy Marshall, Music
Director, and the BUF Choir. We kicked off the official beginning of an extraordinary year in the life of the Bellingham
Unitarian Fellowship. The difference was immediately apparent as everyone entered the church through the new front entrance
on Ellsworth, and were greeted by warmth, light, openness and gracious hospitality. The service honored the experiences of
the summer and, as is a Unitarian Universalist tradition all over the country, we had our water communion service.
The simple but meaningful ceremony celebrated the essence of members' summer experiences by sharing a bit of water symbolic
of those experiences. It may be water that is truly associated with the experience, or just tap water. Members and friends
were encouraged to bring a small amount of that water to participate in the rite. We celebrated the wonder of summer and
the promise of autumn. Social Justice Collection: Animals as Natural Therapy, which provides support and
counseling to troubled young people using animals. http://www.animalsasnaturaltherapy.org/
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September 5, 2010 - "It's About Balance" with Susan Morrisson
Our renowned 19th century Unitarian minister and lecturer,
Ralph Waldo Emerson said, "The happiest man is he who learns from nature the lesson
of worship." In this season of Earth's Autumnal equinox, there are worthy lessons to
be learned. Like the seasons, we also change and are challenged to maintain our own
sustainability. Susan Morrisson earned her Masters of Divinity in 2009 from Seattle
University, and had many years of worship planning experience at East Shore Unitarian
Church prior to seminary.
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August 22, 2010 - Animal Blessing
The wild, wooly, beloved and surprisingly meaningful service for
all ages and species returned and congregational members were invited to bring along their
significant animal companions. This service honored the importance of the animals in our lives
and offered them blessings in return. As has been our tradition, we had a remembrance portion
in the service for animals that have died, and members were encouraged to bring along a photo or
other object for inclusion in the service. Members were also encouraged to bring along pictures
of their favorite wildlife for blessings as well. All species of the earth need our attention, support
and prayers.
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August 8, 2010 - "Circle the World" with singer-songwriter Dana Lyons
Dana shared stories about some of the activists who have most inspired him, he mostly of
his work with Jane Goodall. In 2005 they collaborated on a CD called "Circle the World" which he taught the
congregation. As one reviewer said: "Few people on earth top Jane Goodall for having both an important
message and the scientific and moral authority to command attention and assent; few musical stars write or sing
or live with the committed passion of Dana Lyons." The children's circle this service was an enactment of an
interview between Jane Goodall and a reporter from Animal Planet. Celebrant Barbara Gilday played the role of Ms.
Goodall, while Keyboardist Melanie Rieck played the Animal Planet Reporter.
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June 2, 2010 - Vigil for the Earth
The world has watched the recent events in the Gulf of Mexico and the
terrible damage of the oil spill with horror. Even if the flood of oil into the gulf were to
end today, the damage that has and will occur is incredible. Speaking recently with clergy that
serve congregations on the shores of the Gulf, there is an overwhelming sense of despondency and
near hopelessness in the face of these events. Religious leaders around the world, but particularly
here in the United States, have asked for gatherings to acknowledge this atrocity. BUF members
gathered for a time to mark this period of great sadness, to support one another, and to decide
what we are called to do in response. We began our time with some silence, some readings, a time
of reflection, music and the healing and hope of being together. There was some time to talk about
feelings and share what we felt called to offer as our response. It was a simple but meaningful
gathering led by Rev. Doug Watkins.
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March 9, 2010 -"Renewal" Film Showing with RE Sources
The Green Sanctuary team was invited to attend RE Sources showing of the film
"Renewal." RE Sources is currently launching an effort to engage the interfaith community of Whatcom
County and has asked BUF's GSP team to participate in the effort. A panel after the film was available
to answere questions. It included Katie Fleming of RE Sources, Alex Ramel of Sustainable Connections
and Linda Fels BUF's GSP co=chair. BUF's GSP had already shown the film to its congregation in December
2008 and again in February 2009.
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January 31, 2010 - "The Man Who Planted Trees: A
BUF Community Worship" service
Join Crystal Neva, Andy Marshall, BUF's Chamber and Children's Choirs in a
Unitarian Universalist celebration of the Jewish holiday Tu B' Shevat. It was a lively morning
of creativity, communion, and storytelling; honoring our sacred connection with trees and our earth.
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September 13, 2009 - "Building a Home, Finding a Faith" -
The Rev. Douglas Wadkins, Crystal Neva, Andy Marshall - a Whole Community service
This was our annual Ingathering service where we all gathered back together from our summer
breaks and activities. This service also included our Water Communion, which was a time and ritual to reflect on those
special moments that occurred over the summer. That moment is symbolized in a small amount of water, reminding us our
not only of special moments, but our connection to and dependence on a life-giving and transformative source of
power.
To participate in the ritual, one brings a small amount of water that symbolizes an important
moment their summer or their gratitude for the gifts which for which this source offers up to us so freely. All
offerings are added together and the blessed water will be used for various rituals and celebrations throughouth the
year. This service also kicked off our new church year with a service for all ages, recommitting ourselves to our
congregational family and principles. It set the tone for the year as one of seeking, finding and building.
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July 12, 2009 - "Providing for the Common Welfare" with Robert Lester
We are living in uncertain times; however, we also know the power of spirit to manifest our necessities. The Elders
spoke about how to assure our well being by valuing the importance of self, family, and community in relation to our
Common Welfare. Robert Lester, internationally known teacher and healer, will help us look at the medicine of our
essential needs such as food, shelter, and clothing. Robert's native background is Ojibway/Huron and his understanding
of traditional medicine culture gives a unique and powerful perspective. Robert, seeing the need to connect cultures,
develop understanding and respect the divergent nature of other peoples, has recently founded One People Foundation.
He will continue to teach from the purity of the cultures that have entrusted themselves to him, but will begin to
reach out to other people, finding similarities and respecting the differences. For more informatin on Robert, visit
his website at http://www.rblester.com/workshops.html
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June 21, 2009 - Flower Communion with Rev. Doug Watkins
This service is our transition into our summer season, and an extended family celebration of
the UU tradition of Flower Communion. In order to celebrate our flower communion one need only bring a flower that
one connects with. You will leave the service with a different flower that another member of the congregation has brought.
Doug shows off his new stole made from recycled blue jeans!
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May 3, 2009 - Celebrating Pete Seeger's 90th
Birthday
On Sunday, May 3rd 2009, Bellingham joined cities around the world celebrating Pete
Seeger's 90th birthday with a concert entitled, For Pete's Sake, Sing! Seeger was being nominated for a Nobel
Peace Prize. Bellingham's event, sponsored by the Bellingham Unitarian Fellowship, included an open mic hosted
by Kevin Murphy, a Seeger- inspired singalong with Laura Smith, Richard & Helen Scholtz, and Flip Breskin, and
individual acts including Tom Rawson, Linda Allen and Kamalla Rose Kaur.
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April 12,2009 - "Easter Sunday" - The Rev. Doug Wadkins, Barbara Cornell, Andy Marshall
and the BUF Choir
Once again we explore the ancient themes of Easter, but this year with a very contemporary twist.
We explore the deeper possibility of hope found in the intersection of spiritual fulfillment with a passion for justice
for the interconnected web. Thank you, Doug!
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April 2009 and Earth Day
During the month of April, the Green Sanctuary Program team celebrated the completion of
the twelve (and many more!) projects that lead us to our accreditation as a Green Sanctuary by the UUA. Linda Fels
worked diligently completing the application package and made it available to the congregation. As part of the
accreditation application process, the congregation voted to approve and forward the application on for review
by the UUA. For Earth Day, GSP had a table available during the Social Hour with information on all the various
projects the GSP has been involved with over the past two years. Surveys were also handed out to the congregation,
giving members a chance to let us know what GSP programs they had attended or projects they had been involved with
during the two-year program period as well.
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February 8, 2009 -"Renewal" Encore Showing
The Green Sanctuary and Lifelong Learning programs sponsored an encore viewing of the film
"Renewal" shown on December 11, 2008.
December 11, 2008 - "Renewal"
The Green Sanctuary and Lifelong Learning programs sponsored a viewing of the film "Renewal" on
December 11, 2008. "Across the nation, people of faith are standing up for the environment. Evangelical Christians are
fighting mountaintop removal, a coal mining process that is decimating Appalachia. Muslims are supporting sustainable
farming. Jews are helping children experience the bond between nature and spirituality. Interfaith Power and Light is
mobilizing people of all faiths in a religious response to global warming." Invitations were sent not only to the
congregation, but other area churches as well for this event. The film included eight segments:
1) A Crime Against Creation: Evangelicals bear witness to mountaintop removal and the destruction of Appalachia;
2) Going Green: GreenFaith helps congregations take the first steps to environmental action;
3) Food for Faith: Muslim tradition and charity forge bonds between urban communities and sustainable farms;
4) Ancient Roots: The Teva Learning Center and Adamah bring environmental education together with Jewish tradition;
5) Compassion in Action: Green Sangha, a Buddhist community, leads a campaign to save trees;
6) Eco-Justice: The Holy Spirit inspires a battle against industrial contamination in small town Mississippi;
7) Sacred Celebration: Catholics and Native Americans embrace religious ritual in their struggle to protect land and water;
8) Interfaith Power and Light: Across America people of all faiths mount a religious response to global warming . . .
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January thru March 09 - Rise Up and Call Her Name: A Woman-honoring
Journey into Global Earth-based Spiritualities
During the winter months, several BUF members attended a course entitled "Rise Up and Call Her Name:
A Woman-honoring Journey into Global Earth-based Spiritualities that was offered on Wednesdays and Thursdays.
"Rise Up" is a multicultural experiential curriculum that provides participants with a unique view of international
religious imagery and worldviews, including journeys through Ancient Africa, Sub-Saharan Africa, African American,
Southeast Asia, China and Japan, Pacific Islands, Mesoamerica and North America. The course is made up of thirteen
2-1/2 hr segments that include a variety of activities such as singing, dancing, rituals, simple art projects, sharing
of information and feelings, storytelling, and more. Thanks to Elizabeth Fisher and company for putting together the
curriculum, it's been an enlightening journey and highly recommended for both men and women. Although the classes have
ended, several of the participants are continuing their journey as a group continuing to explore the goddessess, conduct
celebrations and other activities.
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September 7, 2008
During the Ingathering Service, BUF's children's RE program had an opportunity to add their
support to the month-long Food4Tots program. A food bin was placed in the front of the sanctuary for our children
to bring in baby food as their offering for the service. Adults were welcome to contribute as well.
BUF joined with the Bellingham Food Bank to address a growing concern in our community. For an ever increasing
percentage of new parents, the joy of a newborn has beem marred by stress and fear as they find their scant resources
are inadequate to meet their new infant's essential needs. In 2006, families with nearly 7,500 infants under the age
of 2 sought assistance from Whatcom County food banks. BFB estimates that 1,000 units of baby food a month is needed
to meet the local needs of Whatcom's infants and toddlers. Through the Lifelong Learning Program, Social Justice Committee
and the Green Sanctuary Program, it was our goal is to collect 1,000 jars of baby food throughout the month of September.
Food4Tots bins were located in the foyer and regular deliveries made to the Bellingham Food Bank of any donations. Although
the jars of food were important, donations of juices, cereals, etc. were accepted. Members were reminded, too, there are
certain brands of baby food that are organic and would be an outstanding way to address a social justice issue as well as
an environmental one.
BUF's Food4Tots drive were:
938 jars of baby food,
5 boxes of cereal,
1 container of Similac,
78 infant/toddler soy drinks,
42 containers of formula (although, 8 of them had past their expiration dates, and
2 boxes of baby cracker/cookies,
plus whatever monetary contributions we had (some sent directly to the Food Bank, and a few to BUF).
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August 10, 2008 - "The Blessing of the Animals" - The Rev. Doug Wadkins
The wild, wooly, beloved and surprisingly meaningful service for all ages and species returns.
You and your significant
animal companions are invited to this service which honors the importance of the animals in our lives and offers them
blessings in return. As has become our tradition, we will have a remembrance portion in the service for animals that
have died, so you are invited to bring along a photo or other object for inclusion in the service. Please bring the
appropriate container or leash for your cherished critter. As always, if it would be a better blessing for the animal
and others for the animal to not attend in person, a photo will do just fine! Come one, come all.
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June 22, 2008 - "Looking for New Paradigms?" - The Rev. Barbara Gilday
Throughout the ages, we have experienced God/Goddess as Gaia, the Supreme Father, and as fertility and various
special interest gods in many religions. We have gone through the segregation of the female-oriented Goddess, the
male-oriented God, and always someone was left out. And now, in this day of sustainability and of voices speaking
from all sectors of the world: What if we and all of creation were a part of God? How would we treat ourselves? How
would we treat each other? Rev. Barbara Gilday taught for two years in Ghana in the 1960s, which led to a lifelong
interest in multi-culturalism. She received a Master of Divinity in 1998, and has served as a pastor and hospital
chaplain. She now engages in ministry as a speaker, workshop leader, officiant (for weddings and other rituals) and
therapist. Journeys to Africa in the last three years have had a great impact on her current life. MUSIC by some of
the members of vocal ensemble Sarabande.
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June 15, 2008 - "Flower Communion" - The Rev. Doug Wadkins
As we prepare to move into our summer services, we celebrate the annual Unitarian Universalist tradition of Flower
Communion. This much-loved tradition began in World War II and has grown extremely popular in UU congregations across
the country. The heart of this ceremony is a celebration of the beauty of each person and the unique gifts we each
bring to the world and share with each other. In order to be a part of the service, please bring a flower with you
to share with someone in the congregation. It's even better if the flower you pick has some personal significance
to you. The service is a great way to kick off a wonderful, meaningful summer at BUF.
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April 20, 2008 - BUF's Second Earth Day Celebration
BUF's Second Earth Day celebration included William Scarvie, a UU member very familiar with David Korten and
his works, conducting a service entitled "We are the Ones We've Been Waiting For." After the service, there
was a delicious Earth Day Potluck. About 1:00 pm, Mr. Scarvie conducted the "Change the Story, Change the
Future" workshop.
"A three-fold crisis looms before us. Today's parents of young children will almost certainly experience
the effects of global climate disruption in their lifetime. They will also almost certainly suffer the catastrophic
economic consequences of dwindling resources and a possible collapse of the US dollar. Given our grim prospects, is
there any hope? The Chinese ideogram for crisis has two components, the characters meaning danger and opportunity.
What opportunities exist to shape a positive future for our children and grandchildren? What actions can we take
now that will improve the likelihood that their lives will be prosperous, secure and meaningful? What is the role
of religious communities in this great work? Inspired by David Korten's recent book, The Great Turning: From Empire
to Earth Community, this workshop will explore these questions through introspection, intimate conversation and
group discussion."
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April 13, 2008 - "The Streams of Justice"- The Rev. Doug Wadkins, Crystal Neva, Andy
Marshall, the BUF Adult and Children's Choir
One of the most integral issues in our lives is water. This is perhaps a little surprising, but few issues have more
implications for our world and our souls. All ages are invited to explore the political and spiritual implications of
our interconnection with water.
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March 23, 2008 - "As Old As The Earth: An Easter Celebration" sermon by Rev. Doug
Watkins
Long before it was known as Easter, there were sacred times in the spring that honored the parallels between the
reawakening of the human spirit and the rebirth we experience in nature. Today's service will look at the ways that
very old, earth-centered traditions might ask us to honor and live those parallels yet again.
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September 9, 2007 - "The Earth, the Water, the Fire, the Air… Return!" sermon by Rev.
Doug Wadkins
Each year at this time, BUF begins its new year. Members return from summer projects and activities, ready to commit
themselves once again. Our Ingathering service includes a traditional water ceremony and this year included music and
a surprise or two. Everyone is encouraged to bring in a small wonderful a small quantity of water that represents
something important that happened during your summer to become part of the "Mingling of the Waters" ceremony. Music
performed by Andrea Rose, Andy Marshall and special guest, Hans York
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August 5, 2007 - "Behold, There Is Magic All Around You: Pagan Practices and UU
Beliefs" sermon by Beth Nyblade
We in the Pacific NW tend to be tree-huggers who find meaning and value in our contacts with the natural world.
Can Pagan metaphors speak to UUs today? This service came four days before the pagan observance of Lughnasa.
Beth Nyblade is a clinical psychologist, long-time BUF member, and a tree-hugger herself.
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July 22, 2007 - Summer Service: "It's Easy Being Green"
Melanie Rieck, Summer Coordinator, presented an earth-based service on July 22. This year's service, revolved
around inspirational readings and personal reflections on being stewards of the earth. UUs Jayme & David Curley
described what they do to make a difference, and music by a local, folk-pop duo, Irthlingz, whose mission is to
use entertainment and fun to ignite love for our environment and inspire proactive care of our world. They are an
internationally active musical duo who are presenting a climate change musical revue at the UN Commission on
Sustainable Development this past spring.
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April 22, 2007 - BUF's First Earth Day Celebration
We conducted an annual Earth Day celebration both within our fellowship and with the greater Bellingham
community. This first year, we held an Earth Day Fair after Sunday worship on April 22nd as a kickoff for
our Green Sanctuary Program. Special emphasis was on introducing the 12 projects via a GSP brochure, handing
out personal audit forms, kicking off the transportation challenge, educating the congregation on NSEA and
recruiting task force members for the foodbook project.
In addition, we joined in the Bellingham Multi-Faith Clergy Earth Day service planned for that same Sunday
afternoon. This new event sponsored by Christian, Jewish and Unitarian clergy, is hoped to be a regular annual
event for our community. Our minister Rev. Doug Wadkins planned the music for the event. To make it a full day,
we encouraged participation that same day in the raising of a Lummi Nation Healing Pole to honor three youths
killed in a gasline explosion in June of 1999. The memorial is located near Whatcom Creek Trail at the end of
Racine St.
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April 20, 2007 - RE Sources 5th Annual Environmental Heroes Banquet
Several BUF members attended RE Sources' 5th Annual Environmental Heroes Award Banquet and 25th Anniversary
Celebration. The celebration honored RE Sources founders, past board members, and Whatcom County's first curbside
recycling volunteers. Marian Beddill graciously reserved a table for BUF for the event. It was a wonderful time
with good food, good fun and especially good company. BUF members and friends included Marian Beddill, Ruth Ashworth,
Nancy Grayum & David Marshak, Deb & Ralph Cruz, Christa & Bill Simmons, Leslie Clark & Phil Printz and others.
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March 18, 2007 - "The Blessing of the Animals" sermon by by Rev. Doug Watkins
It's time again for one of our most beloved and interesting services. Every couple of years, we do a service that
honors our interconnected relationship with the animal companions in our lives. You are invited to bring your animal
companions with you to the service, with appropriate cage or leash, please. Or, if it would not be a blessing for
either your pet, you or the rest of the congregation to bring them to the service, then a picture will do just fine.
You can also bring photos of beloved animals that have died; remembering them will be a part of our service, as well.
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February 4, 2007 - "The Spirit of the Earth" sermon by by Rev. Doug Watkins
The Rev. Doug Wadkins, Andy Marshall and the BUF Women's Ensemble came together for this service. The term stewardship
is a broad one. This month, Doug's services will explore its many aspects, beginning with our connection to the earth.
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December 9, 2006 - "A Celebration for the Earth" Concert by Jim Scott
As part of the Green Sanctuary's kick-off event, BUF invited the originator of the Green Sanctaury Program
to come and perform. Jim Scott is "one of the rare musicians who have transcended stylistic boundaries, Jim has
recorded or shared the stage with luminaries from the jazz, classical and folk music worlds. From Carnegie Hall
and the Newport Jazz Festival with the Paul Winter Consort; to a concert at the end of the Great Peace March with
folk legends Pete Seeger and Peter Yarrow, Jim's travels have taken him around the world, including a European
tour with the Griffith Singers performing his choral music; recording in the gardens of Findhorn Scotland with
jazz flautist Paul Horn; touring Nicaragua with Holly Near and performing in Australia for colleges and the Institute
for Earth Education international conference. In his years as guitarist for the Paul Winter Consort, Jim led
thousands in the song "Common Ground" and his own eco-anthem, "A Song For The Earth." He was co-composer of the
Consort's monumental choral work, "Missa Gaia/Earth Mass," and recorded "A Concert for the Earth" in the Great
Hall of the United Nations. While a member of the Consort, Jim also wrote several PBS soundtracks and composed
and arranged an entire concert for the group with the Indianapolis Symphony. Jim has long been active in the
Unitarian Universalist (UU) Church and has visited over 300 UU churches across the country, leading services,
presenting concerts, and offering workshops. Three of Jim's songs are included in the new Unitarian Universalist
Hymnbook, and "Gather The Spirit," has become a favorite across the denomination. Jim has served on the board of
the UU Musicians Network and was Co-Chair of the ecological/spiritual activist group the UU "Seventh Principle
Project. . ." which has now evolved into the GreenSanctuary Program.
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