This Sunday
Curious Awakenings
Presented by Guest Speaker Richard Smykla
In this talk we will consider briefly some of the popular myths regarding Buddhism and Zen in the US, describe methods of Zen practice in the development of mindfulness, and examine how they can change our orientation toward the ways we care for ourselves and others.
BIO: Rev. Richard Daiko Smykla is a Zen Buddhist priest currently serving the Jizo-an Zen Community in Cherry Hill, NJ. He holds a degree in Biology from Stockton University and has worked as a biochemist in various labs for 30 years. A lifelong skeptic, he finds Zen practice to complement the inquiries of science and to provide a restoration of faith in this human journey. Father to two daughters, he and his wife Cindy enjoy exploring our natural environment in hikes and kayaking with their wonder-dog Zara.
PLEASE NOTE: This service will be in person at UUCSJS and streamed live on our Facebook page. A recording will be available later in the day on our YouTube Channel.
March 3rd: Of Jet Pigs and Rainbows: How We Articulate Our Values
Presented by Rev Sunshine Wolfe
Ask a Unitarian Universalist to explain what we believe and you will get at least three answers for every two people. In the last few years, we’ve been discussing whether and how to update our values statements in the national Bylaws. Some think we should keep things as we are and others love the changes and what they can mean. This has inspired amendments, Jet Pigs, and more. Yes, I said Jet Pigs. Join us for a worship time to consider our story of values over the centuries and what creative engagement is happening today.
March 10th: Do We Really Know What We Say and Hear?
Presented by Mike Hannisian
The intent of this sermon is to explore how our language is used and misused. The results of which are that we all too often do not understand what is being said, or how what we are saying can be misconstrued. It also addresses the ways in which some people purposefully use our language to mislead and/or confuse others.
Get Classy!
Classy is a podcast that is getting a lot of buzz and worth a bit of time to check out during our month of focusing on justice and equity.
In it, the host, Jonathan Menjivar, explores how class and class inequities shape our social interactions. But what makes the podcast special is the way Menjivar vulnerably explores how class has shaped him! This vulnerability opens space for us to explore our own vulnerabilities around class, and in so doing, also makes listening to this podcast a spiritual exercise, especially if you grew up poor or working class.
This week maybe check out episode two: A Classy (and Uncomfortable) Laugh with Terry Gross.
This episode gets at how those of us who grew up poor or working class often contort ourselves as we navigate interactions with “higher class” folks and as we climb the so-called class ladder. It also lifts up how shame and self-doubt can become constant companions during that journey.
Thank You!! Thank You!!
A big THANK YOU to everyone who made and bought soup on Sunday.
It was wonderful to see all the creations and even more wonderful to enjoy eating the soup. The soup event made $630 and it was a great sharing experience.
There are about a dozen soups that were not sold and were put in the freezer downstairs. They will be available for sale after service next Sunday, February 25.
UUA Common Read Announced!
Our new common read is On Repentance and Repair by Rabbi Danya Rittenberg. We have ordered several copies which will be available in the lobby this Sunday. Discussion will take place April 14th after the service.
Danya Rittenberg’s book is rooted in traditional Jewish concepts and the work of medieval philosopher Maimonides, Born in Spain around 1135 AD.
When it comes to harmful situations, society has placed a great deal of emphasis upon forgiveness which places the brunt of repair on the wounded. Repentance and Repair turns to those who are struggling to take responsibility for their mistakes. Chapter one describes five steps of repentance based on Maimonides teachings. These teachings can be applied to personal transgressions and to our culture’s most painful and unresolved issues.
Need Help?
Contact a member of the Caring Team
Team members can provide you with support during/after an illness, a death in the family, or other loss or hardship. They can find you resources, run errands, or provide meals in time of need.
Reach out to:
Tracey Catino at (609) 674-8721 email: Traceysnaps@msn.com
Helen Utts at (609) 338-3391 email: HelenUtts@aol.com
Tony Zitelli at (201) 463-2800 email: happy85a@aol.com
Barbara Morell at (215) 805-7599 email: morellb@msn.com
Janet Longo at (609) 748-8608 email: jilportnj@comcast.net
Denise O'Meara at (610) 316-7495 denome53@gmail.com
Caring Team is looking for members who are willing to attend monthly Zoom meetings and help out when congregants are sick or suffering from hardships. Please contact Tracey Catino if you can join our confidential group.