Open Circle Unitarian Universalist Fellowship March/April 2018 - Open Circle Unitarian Universalist ...
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Open Circle Unitarian
Universalist Fellowship
March/April 2018
President’s Corner!
President’s Corner February/March Newsletter
Change is inevitable! It seems technology is changing so fast, it is Ministerial Meanderings
hard to keep up, especially for those of us of a certain age! It helps From our Minister,
me to look at this in terms of threats and opportunities. If someone
would have told me that my typing class would be one of my most Three Dollars Worth of God
beneficial classes, I wouldn’t have believed them, yet as the work-
place evolved, the keyboard became a very important tool. by Wilbur Rees
Open Circle is no exception when it comes to change, most of it is I would like to buy $3 worth of God, please.
very positive. What will it mean to have a half time minister? Aud-
rey, Susanne and I have been meeting with Jim to write policies that Not enough to explode my soul or disturb my sleep,
will help us make the transition as smooth as possible. I would like
to thank Jim, Audrey and Susanne for doing this work and a special but just enough to equal a cup of warm milk
thanks to Susanne for writing the Chalice Lighters Grant and Tracy
for getting it sent in. We will be sharing these with the congrega-
or a snooze in the sunshine.
tion and seeking Board Approval at a Congregational meeting in
May. This is all contingent on raising enough money through, our
pledges, special donations, Chalice Lighters Grant and the possibili- I don’t want enough of God to make me love my enemy
ties of a matching grant opportunity. The Stewardship Committee
will be meeting and sharing a plan with the Congregation soon. or pick beets with a migrant.
I would like to thank Scott Rodman for organizing a Challenge Day I want ecstasy, not transformation.
Opportunity for our Fondy High Students. It was a huge success
and the goal is to make this an ongoing three day event each year. I want warmth of the womb, not a new birth.
It may be the best investment we can make to help students gain
perspective into their feelings and understanding that they are not
I want a pound of the Eternal in a paper sack.
alone. Many students indicate that this has been a life changing
event for them. I believe this is a great example of the Open Circle
Vision Statement: To be a transforming presence in the lives of I would like to buy $3 worth of God, please
individuals and the Fond du Lac Community. Thanks, Scott and all
the Open Circle members who participated and gave donations. Rees’ poem suggests we want a religion that makes us feel all
warm and cozy but doesn’t stretch us too far out of our comfort
I would like to thank Mary Arrigoni for organizing; “ Making Jim zone. Perhaps something that feeds our desire for “ecstasy” and
Fat Dinners” to help Jim get to know the Congregation and to also the “warmth of the womb”, but nothing that might actually force us
thank all the hosts including: Mary Arrigoni, Christopher to emerge transformed into a needy world.
Szymczak, Tracey Wilkinson, Paisley Harris and Bev Gudex. I
would also like to thank the Chalice Circle Committee led by My themes for March and April
Tracey Wilkinson and members Mary Arrigoni, Barb Murray, Su- are balance and emergence which tie nicely with this poem and
sanne Dennis, and Bev Gudex for their work to keep members in- the change we are seeking in our Fellowship. We often talk about
formed and create new opportunities. Chalice Circles are meant to “growing our congregation” and sometimes it begins to sound like
help us to get to know members of the congregation better at a more the American dream – the insatiable desire to have everything
intimate level. It is also an opportunity to further explore your bigger and better than before. But is that really the goal? Or does
our desire for growth need to be balanced as much by how we
Spiritual Journey.
grow? Are we growing because we’ve bought only $3 worth of
God which makes everyone feel nice and cozy or are we paying
I would like to thank the staff, who help keep Open Circle function-
attention to loving our enemy, picking beets with a migrant and
ing: Tracy McDermott, Steve Cornelius, Sara Huber, Tim Reel and maybe, just maybe, having our souls explode? Only by striking
Jeff Reese. Their efforts often go unseen, so please thank them the right balance will we grow the way we should and then emerge
when you have the opportunity. There are many acts of kindness transformed to help build a better world.
happening at Open Circle and I’m very grateful for all of you!
Peace, Rev. Jim
Lisette Aldrich, Open Circle President
(Rev. Jim Coakley serves as our part-time consulting minister)
1
SPECIAL OFFERINGS
March: Friends of the Fond du Lac Library
April: Peanut Butter Drive
HOSPITALITY COMMITTEE
After-Service hospitality events will continue during March and April. If you are in charge of a particular Sunday, please re-
mind those who have signed up to help you. Since attendance might be sporadic, you will want to make sure everyone is on-
board!
EARTH JUSTICE NOW COMMITTEE
UPCOMING ACTIVITIES & EVENTS
Monthly Meetings: Jan. 13 Feb. 10 CCL & 24 EJN
Films shown Saturdays: 3/3, 3/17, 4/7, 4/21!!
Starting in February the meeting dates changed to accommodate our film series: “the Dark Secrets of Our Food Industry” EJN
will meet the last Saturday of the month(9:30a), and CCL will meet the second Saturday of the month(11a).
The 1st and 3rd Saturday EJN/CCL will show documentaries about our food system. This is a project sponsored by Trust Local
Foods and the Oneida Tribe integrated food system. March 3rd “Scientists Under Attack” March 17 “Hungry for Change” ex-
poses the shocking secrets the diet, weight loss and food industry don’t want you to know about.; deceptive strategies de-
signed to keep you coming back for more 89 mins. April 7 “Dirt! The Movie” a humorous and substantial look at the glorious
and unappreciated ground beneath our feet. 80 mins. April 21 “Fresh” celebrates farmers, thinkers and business people across
America who are re-inventing our food system. 72 mins.
These films are sponsored by ONEIDA, Trust Local Foods, OCIFS and Open Circle EJN.
Sign up for a bread share through Trust Local Foods! Bread delivered on film days!!
April14, 2018 will be the March for Science
meet at veteran's park at 10am!!
2
2017-2018 Program Overview
Date & Time Location Topic(s)
September 13, 2017 Marian University Kickoff Event
6:00pm Social 6:30 Program
October 4, 2017 Open Circle Fellow- The Story We Tell:
6:00pm Social 6:30 Program ship The Power of an Illusion
November 1, 2017 Open Circle Fellow- Telling The Untold Story:
6:00pm Social 6:30 Program ship Indian Experiences
The House We Live In:
December 6,2017 Open Circle Fellow-
How racism has manifested throughout our
6:00pm Social 6:30 Program ship history
January 3, 2018 Open Circle Fellow- Telling The Untold Story:
6:00pm Social 6:30 Program ship Hmong Experiences
February 7, 2018 Open Circle Fellow-
Understanding the Color of Fear
6:00pm Program ship
March 7, 2018 Open Circle Fellow- Telling The Untold Story:
6:00pm Social 6:30 Program ship Latino Experiences
April 4, 2018 Open Circle Fellow-
Walking down The Color Line
6:00pm Social 6:30 Program ship
May 2, 2018 Open Circle Fellow- Telling The Untold Story:
6:00pm Social 6:30 Program ship Muslim Experiences
June 6, 2018 Open Circle Fellow- Potluck Gathering &
6:00pm Social 6:30 Program ship Program Conclusion
Location Address:
Open Circle Fellowship: 19 East Third Street, Fond du Lac, WI 54935
Parking: Please use the city lot on the corner of 3rd & Main Street. There is free parking after 5pm
Contact us at humanityprojectfdl@gmail.com or find us on Facebook!!
32017-18 OPEN CIRCLE UU BOOK GROUP
All are welcome to join us for some or all of our book group sessions. We meet at 11:30 AM fol-
lowing the UU service. Light snacks, coffee and tea will be available. We only ask that you plan
ahead to read the selection for the month if you want to participate.
Books can be found online, or at the public library. The dates may be subject to change as the
season progresses.
September 10 - EVICTED: Poverty and Profit in the American City
by Matthew Desmond Discussion Leader - Lisette Aldrich
October 15 - BEING MORTAL: Medicine and What Matters in the End
by Atul Gawande Discussion Leader - Barbara Lukas
November 12 - LIVING WITH THE DEVIL: A Meditation on Good and Evil
by Stephen Batchelor Discussion Leader - Jeanne McDowell
December 10 - TRIBE: On Homecoming and Belonging by Sebastian Junger
Discussion Leader - Jane Dennis
January 14 - THE JOY OF LIVING: Unlocking the Secret and Science of Happiness
by Yongey Mingyur Rinpoche Discussion Leader - Barb Murray
February 11 - THE TEARS WE CAN NOT STOP: A Sermon to White America
by Michael Dyson Discussion Leader - Judy Goldsmith
March 11 - THE THIRD RECONSTRUCTION: How a Moral Movement is Overcoming
the Politics of Division and Fear by Rev. William Barber
Discussion Leader - Susanne Dennis
April 22 - THE MEANING OF HUMAN EXISTENCE by Edward O. Wilson
Discussion Leader - Mary Ellen McMeen
May 20 - THE HIDDEN LIFE OF TREES: What They Feel, How They Communicate -
Discoveries from a Secret World by Peter Wohlleben
Discussion Leader - Diana Beck
4OPEN CIRCLE’S SOCIAL JUSTICE NOW! COMMITTEE
Open Circle’s Social Justice NOW! Committee pursues social justice activism and education in line with Unitarian
Universalism’s first, second and fifth principles that call us to promote:
The inherent worth and dignity of every person;
Justice, equity and compassion in human relations; and
Respect for the right of conscience and participatory democracy in our community and nation.
OUR CURRENT WORK
We help to plan and support the work of the Equality Project and support the work of the Humanity Project;
We are working to renew Open Circle’s Welcoming Congregation certification. (Welcoming Congregations affirm
and welcome LGBTQ (Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, Queer and Questioning individuals)
We are part of the new WiUUSAN (Wisconsin UU State Action Network) which will coordinate social justice ef-
forts of Wisconsin UU Congregations to enhance their impact.
We keep Open Circle aware of and engaged in Social Justice initiatives of the UUA
We hope to work with the Fond du Lac School District to bring Challenge Day, an anti-bullying, anti-prejudice pro-
gram, or a similar program to Fond du Lac High School.
We are open to collaborating and supporting other local organizations that need our help.
Equality Project Meetings
3/22 6 PM Socializing 6:30 Program “March Madness” Equality in Sports: LGBT Athletes
4/26 6 PM Socializing 6:30 Program: LGBT and Spirituality
WE GENERALLY MEET ON THE 4TH SUNDAY OF EACH MONTH
AFTER CHURCH AT 11:45 A.M
Contact: Paisley Harris
paisley.harris@uwc.edu/251-2373
5Chalice Circles
Small group ministry programs like Chalice Circles exist in many Unitarian Uni-
versalist congregations as a way for people to explore their deepest understanding of
life in the midst of a community of faith. Here at OCUUF, circles also serve as small
communities of listening and caring in the midst of our growing congregation. Chal-
ice Circles always have an emphasis on deepening relationships among group mem-
bers.
Each Chalice Circle has its own “style” decided upon by the members, but they all
have a facilitator (a participant-member of the group) and follow a theme or format.
The focus of each Chalice Circle meeting is a topic that serves as a springboard into
reflection on deeper issues about who we are and what gives our life meaning.
Chalice Circles are not “drop-in” groups, the members agree to meet 1-2 times per
month for at least a year. The groups are large enough to prompt group interaction but
small enough to allow intimacy and equal participation. Groups usually meet 90 min-
utes to 2 hours, long enough to follow the format and engage in deep listening.
Because participants are part of the same group of people each month, they are
asked to give the agreed upon meetings a high priority and make an effort to attend
every meeting as well as commit to the group’s covenant describing the ways they will
interact with one another.
As we further develop our relationships with one another in these small circles we
also strengthen the community of the congregation as a whole. Whether you’re new
to Open Circle or you’re a long-time member, Chalice Circles are a good way to build
relationships and nurture your spirit. I hope you will take this
opportunity to let Tracy McDermott know you are interested in joining a CC group by
emailing her: opencircleuuf@gmail.com All are welcome. Mary Arrigoni
6GET INVOLVED AT OCUUF!
*Open Circle has talent!* Women’s Coffee Group—WOW (Women of Wisdom) usu-
ally meets on the first Sunday of each month. At 8:30AM
MEETING AT OCUUF.
We are interested in diversifying some of our
special music for services. If you, your family, or
a small group wish to
be perform something special or be available to Men’s Coffee Group
The OCUUF Men’s Group usually meets on the first Sunday
be asked, please let our of every month at OCUUF ; coffee and conversation at 8:00
musical coordinating team know. Contact the of- AM; ’check in’ and begin session at 8:30. Finish at 9:50 AM.
fice (opencircleuuf@gmail.com),
Focus of this year will be “Men of Passion, personal and spiri-
( Linda Kirk ((920) 923-2736) or BJ Belzer tual growth and activities designed to help men understand
((920) 921-3605) to let them and address the joys and difficulties of the life we are living.
Credo-You are not alone. Please contact Scott Rodman for
know of your interest. further information regarding events for this group. He can be
reached at scottrodman@gmail.com or 920-921-3188.
Meeting March 4th and April 4th
RE (Religious Education)
Elementary RE classes are held every Sunday at 10 AM,
September through June. Middle School (MS) RE meetings
TBD. Childcare is also available every Sunday,
Book/Video Club: All members and non-members are wel-
come to participate in the book discussions at 11:30 AM fol-
lowing Second Sunday of the ,month Service. Light lunch
food and snacks will be available. All books selected can be
purchased locally, ordered online or obtained from the FDL
Public Library. The reading list is available on Page 3.
The Earth Justice Now team focuses on topics such as
healthy eating, social justice issues of restaurant workers,
sustainable agriculture and other food-related social and envi-
ronmental justice topics. New Meeting dates starting in Feb-
ruary! EJN Will meet the third Saturday of the month!
The Social Justice Now team focuses on pursuing social
justice work in line with Unitarian Universalism’s first, second
and sixth principles. Social Justice Now works for justice, eq-
uity, and compassion in society, including by supporting the
Equality Project which works to end stigmas against LGBTQ+
individuals.
EarthSpirit is a group for those who have an interest in
Earth/Nature-centered spirituality, including Wiccan, Native
American and other Pagan paths. The group celebrates the
eight Pagan Sabbats with a gathering, ritual, and potluck
feast.
For additional information, please see the calendars pro-
vided in this newsletter and more up-to-date information
provided on the OCUUF website calendar at
www.ocuuf.org
7Service schedule
Religious education (re)
March
Generally, weekly RE elementary classes are held from Sep-
tember through June each year. The Middle School and High March 4:Erika Jensen
School RE schedule will vary. Child care is available every Healing Journey Through Cancer
Sunday during regularly scheduled worship times, even when
there is not an Elementary RE Class.
March 11:Judy Goldsmith
If you need childcare to attend ANY meeting at OCUUF, contact Women’s History
Steve Cornelius and he will set something up to accommodate
you. March 18 :Rev. Jim Coakley
If you have any questions about RE, contact Steve Cornelius at Balance
402-658-0000 or stevecorrin@hotmail.com.
March 25:Sara Huber
Spirituality of Living Tiny
April
April 1:Zachery McKenzie
Death Brings Value
TED Talk
April 8: Micheal Schuler
Friday, March 9th:Dee Eggers
Dolphins as Persons April 15: Rev. Jim Coakley
Emergence
Friday, April 13th to be announced
You are invited to bring your own drink and an appetizer to April 22:Kelly Crocker
pass and enjoy a fun Friday night together. All are wel-
come. April 29:Potluck
All services are held at OCUUF at 10 AM
unless stated otherwise
OCUUF 0N YOUTUBE
OCUUF now has a YouTube site page.
Additional material will be added on a regular ba-
sis. The videos will typically be loaded by the
Thursday evening following the service.
Check it out. Here is the link to the OCUUF You-
Tube website. https://www.youtube.com/channel/
UCoi-d1LmKJsVZ3JzRvValzg
8OCUUF Facilities
The purpose of the facilities committee is to provide and oversee the
COMMIITTEES maintenance of the OCUUF building. This includes making minor
repairs to ensure that no major damage or deterioration occurs
un-necessarily, and hiring professionals when needed.
Caring Circles
The mission of the Open Circle Caring Circle is to provide short term,
personal and compassionate member-to-member support as needs Hospitality
arise, with such things as meals, transportation, child care, respite The purpose of the Hospitality Committee is to provide coffee and tea
care, and notes and cards. and to arrange refreshments for after-service “coffee hour.” Also, to
Note: Caring Circle vs. Lay Pastoral Care: The Caring Circle host coffee hour and clean kitchen area afterwards including washing
differs from lay pastoral care in that the latter provides more spe- dishes, saving leftover food, disposing of trash and taking home laun-
cialized services to support members in time of grief, marital dry. Coffee hour can last about one hour. Chair will oversee host as-
changes, unemployment, etc. Lay pastoral care requires more in- signments and Sunday refreshments. Chair will also purchase supply
depth training for volunteers than does the Caring Circle. Open of coffee, tea, some fruit juice drinks and paper products.
Circle does not provide pastoral care at this time.
Membership
Common Grounds The purpose of the New to UU Committee is to welcome newcomers
The purpose of the Common Ground Team is to keep the Covenant of to the Fellowship, to help them to learn about Unitarian Universalism
Community a living presence in our fellowship life, serving as a re- and Open Circle UU, and to support them in making decisions about
source to facilitate positive communication and relationships. their commitment to the Unitarian Universalist faith and to Open
Circle.
The common ground team is charged with establishing and periodi-
cally updating guidelines for conflict resolution in OCUUF, is em-
powered to make recommendations to the board and congregation Ministerial Leadership
about ways to promote and improve a healthy beloved community, The Ministerial Leadership Committee is charged with leading OC-
and will also be available as mediators and a resource to the OCUUF UUF in the consideration of retaining ongoing ministerial leadership
community. for the Fellowship. The committee will lead a Fellowship conversa-
tion and assessment relating to views within the Fellowship regarding
the pros and cons of seeking ongoing ministerial leadership, and the
Decorating (Décor) skills, traits and expectations the members have for a staff minister.
The Décor Committee is charged with creating and maintaining a
functional, attractive and welcoming space at our Fellowship. The The committee will work with Mid-America Region UUA staff to
committee selects and places the furnishings, decorative art and obtain information about the costs and process of obtaining ministe-
rial leadership and on educating the Fellowship on these matters. The
accessories within the building, and selects wall color and flooring.
committee may consider shared positions with neighboring fellow-
While the Facilities Committee is responsible for maintaining the ships.
Structure, modifications that impact the appearance of the building
Will be done in collaboration with the Décor Committee.
Nominating
The purpose of the Nominating Committee is to recommend candi-
The committee is mindful that our building “communicates” many dates for Board positions, confer with the Board to fill any vacancies
Messages about Open Circle. This poses challenges as well as oppor- which occur between Annual Meetings, recommend candidates to
tunities. The committee seeks to reflect and respect the diversity of serve on the Nominating Committee, assist the Board in identifying
beliefs within the Fellowship as well as our UU Principles, while members for leadership training, and assist in the development of con-
maintaining cohesion in the overall appearance of the building. gregational leaders.
Earth Justice Now Religious Education
The purpose and scope of Earth Justice Now is to focus efforts on The purpose of the Religious Education Committee is to nurture and
care for the earth in general, and climate change in particular. It honor the continual spiritual growth and identity of children, youth
seeks to cooperate with other like-minded individuals and organiza- and families. Our congregation-centered program provides a living
tions answering the urgent call to all people to work together to miti- faith foundation based on UU principles and sources. The children
gate the degradation and destruction of life on earth brought on by are encouraged to develop their own personal beliefs and to celebrate
human actions. the diversity of religious traditions.
Continued on next page...
9Service Planning Men’s Group
The purpose of the Service Planning Committee is to assure that The Men’s Group is an open group that meets the first Sunday of
quality services and other spirituality education or nourishing fellow- each month. Coffee time begins at 8 AM, with check-in and the
ship activities are programmed each Sunday during the service year. start of the meeting at 8:30 AM. Their credo is “you are not
The committee seeks input from fellowship members to ensure their alone”. The check-in allows for personal sharing, followed by
preferences are aligned with the programming. The committee identi- discussion of an issue relevant to the men present. This is a group
fies and addresses needs related to service provision, e.g. songbooks, that permits deep sharing in a trust-based, confidential environ-
candles, batteries for microphones, etc. ment.
Women of Wisdom Coffee Group (WOW)
Social Justice Now WOW is a group of women who gather the first Sunday of every
The purpose of the Social Justice Now Committee is to further the month for open discussion centered around individual views of
cause of justice in our community and the world, and to seek creative spirituality and its implications in women’s lives. Some of the
solutions to address injustice wherever it occurs. Current Equality topics that have been discussed are world religions and personal
Project for LGBTQ+ with monthly education and community-build- beliefs, styles of meditation, aging, death and the afterlife, and
ing events. mindfulness.
The group meets on the first Sunday of each month, gathering at
Stewardship 8:30 AM for coffee with the discussion beginning at 8:45AM. The
The Stewardship Committee is responsible for oversight of all fellow- meetings generally end about 10 minutes before service.
ship financial operations and investments. The committee organizes
and conducts congregational pledge drives and convenes annual
meetings.
OCUUF Groups
Book/Video Club
The purpose of the Book/Video Club is to create connections
(Beloved Community) among attendees, be they OCUUF or local
community members interested in being part of a book club and
meeting other people. This open group meets monthly throughout the
year and chooses the films/books based on the discussion of the atten-
dees.
Chalice Circles
Chalice Circles are small groups of approximately 6-8 people who
meet regularly to deepen their relationships with each other and to
grow spiritually. Chalice Circles provide an open and supportive en-
vironment in which the inherent worth and dignity of each commu-
nity member is respected. An environment that specifically promotes
making connections and developing friendships within the Fellowship
and supports spiritual growth and the search for truth and meaning.
Each “Circle” decides on the frequency, time and place of their meet-
ings. Once a Circle is formed, there is a commitment to meet together
for at least one year.
Earth Spirit
Earth Spirit is a group for those who have an interest in Earth/Nature-
Centered spirituality, including Wiccan, Native American, and other
Pagan paths. The group celebrates the Pagan Sabbats with a gather-
ing, ritual and potluck feast. All Earth Spirit events are alcohol-free,
and children are welcome if supervised.
10March 2018
SUNDAY MONDAY TUESDAY WEDNESDAY Thursday Friday Saturday
1 2 3
10 AM EJN
Film Series
4 5 6 7 8 9 10
6 PM Service Humanity Pro- TED Talk Earth Justice
8:30 AM Planning ject Meeting 6-8 6-8 PM NOW Meeting
Men’s Coffee PM 9-10:30 A
Group
8:30 AM Womens
Coffee Group
10 AM Elementary
RE
Service 10AM
Erika Jensen
11 12 13 14 15 16 17
8:30AM Chalice 10 AM EJN
Facilitators Meeting Film Series
10 AM Service
Juday Goldsmith
10 AM Elementary
RE
18 19 20 21 22 23 24
8:30 AM Outreach/ United for Equality EJN Meeting
Membership Meet- Diversity Project 9 AM
ing Meeting 6 PM Meeting 6
10 AM Service: PM
Rev. Jim Coakley:
Balance
10 AM Elementary
RE
*Celebration Sun-
day After Service*
11:30 Am Book
Club
4PM Spring Equi-
nox
25 26 27 28 29 30 31
10 AM Service: 6:30 Board Articulating
Sara Huber Meeting your UU Faith
6 PM
10 AM Elem RE
11:45 Social Justice
NOW
11April 2018
SUNDAY MONDAY TUESDAY WEDNESDAY Thursday Friday Saturday
1 2 3 4 5 6 7
8:30 AM Articulating Humanity Pro- 10 AM EJN
Men’s Coffee your UU Faith ject Walking Film Series
Group 6 PM down the Color
8:30 AM Line
Women’s 6 PM Social
Coffee Group 6:30 Program
10 AM Ser-
vice Zachery
McKenzie
10 AM Ele-
mentary RE
8 9 10 11 12 13 14
Articulating Citizens Cli-
your UU Faith mate Lobby
10 AM Ser- 6 PM 11 AM
vice: Michael
Shuler
10 AM Ele-
mentary RE
15 16 17 18 19 20 21
8:30 A M Articulating AAUW Meeting 10 AM EJN
Chalice Fa- your UU Faith 6-9 PM Film Series
cilitators 6 PM
Meeting
10 AM
Service :Rev.
Jim Coakley
10 AM Elem
RE
Book Club
11:30 AM
22 23 24 25 26 27 28
8:30 AM Out- Equality Pro- EJN Meeting
reach/ ject Meeting 9:00AM
Membership 6 PM
meeting
10 AM Ser-
vice:Rev.
Kelly 7PM Kirtan
Crocker
10 AM Ele-
mentary RE
29 30
10 AM
Potluck
12December 2017 Board Meeting Minutes
Members Present: Diana Beck, Treasurer Sylvia Reed, Marge Whitinger, V. President Audrey Linn, President Lisette Aldrich, Ann Teal
Members Absent: Secretary Susanne Dennis
Guests: Rev. Jim Coakley, Steve Cornelius
Secretary’s Report. November Minutes: were approved with one change: The first line under Compensation Re-
port - “Changes to the Janitorial rate had been made recommended...”
November Action Items were reviewed – all items were either complete or are in progress.
There will be a sign-up Sunday for dinners with Jim.
Treasurer’s Report. Sylvia discussed the balance sheet, noting that the pledge collections have been trailing expec-
tations, though the year end contributions often make up for that. The treasurers report was
approved.
Review of Strategic There was lengthy discussion of the first 2 sections of goals for the church year – Worship and
Planning Goals Welcoming/Engagement/Small Group ministry. We still need to recruit members of the ser-
vice planning group and develop and conduct service leadership & coordination training.
Audrey will follow up with Linda K. to look at possible membership survey of fellowship mu-
sic.
Jim C. will provide a UU 101 session on Feb 18 at 1pm for new people and interested others.
Sylvia will schedule a series of Articulating Your UU Faith for the March-April timeframe.
Diana will check with Tracey W. regarding when Chalice circle groups will be shuffled.
Janitor Rate Change Based on the recommendation of the Compensation Committee, it was moved, seconded and
approved that the janitorial compensation be changed from $90 per month for 2 cleanings to
$100 per month for 2 cleanings.
Sylvia agreed to send a letter to the janitor informing him of the change effective Jan 1, 2018.
Earth Justice Now Diana Beck reported on the activities of the Earth Justice Now group. The primary focus at
Committee Report this time is the implementation of the Oneida video series about the dark side of our food sup-
ply. There are a large number of videos, which will be shown every first and third Saturday
from 10 am to 12 pm, beginning on Feb 3rd and going to November 2018.
EJN is also encouraging participation in a Meatless Monday program on Jan 22 at the
Agnesian cafeteria, featuring Rich Nimke (sp?). (Didn’t catch the time.)
Monthly Donations The list for special offerings that was developed in November was reviewed. It is:
to organizations Jan – Challenge Day (the entire collection as we have committed $500)
Feb – Celebrate Community
Mar – Friends of the Library
Apr – Peanut Butter
May – VA? Audrey will check with Rick Patton how best to do this
Jun – Ebony Vision (for Juneteenth)
AED (Training/ It was confirmed that the AED has been installed and our payment has been returned. Marge
check list) will do a brief training at the Dec 31 potluck.
RE Report / Steve recommended that, since there was no clear paper trail approving the raise that Sara re-
ceived Jan 2016, the Board should consider making a formal approval of that action. It was
moved and approved that this raise be officially retroactively. The RE committee will review
compensation for those positions and make recommendations to the Board.
Minister Report There was discussion about Jim’s status for next year, given a probable move at Stevens Point
to half-time and a request to fill in some pastoral duties at Fox Valley. If it looked like a total
full time was emerging, Jim will stop his current position at Kimberly Clark and fully invest in
ministerial work. The question was asked whether a new ½ time position would be put out for
broader candidacy, and it was clarified that the economics of doing so would make it too chal-
lenging, as we would have to cover housing, insurance and other things that would not be re-
quired with Jim C.
Meet the Minister The “fatten up Jim” program of dinners is in advanced stages of planning, and fellowship
Dinners members will be invited to sign up to participate beginning on Sunday Dec 24.
Review Action Action items were itemized – see items in red above.
Items.
13OPEN CIRCLE UNITARIAN UNIVERSALIST FELLOWSHIP
BOARD MEETING MINUTES
January 29, 2018
Members Present: Marge Whitinger, Ann Teal, Diana Beck, Treasurer Sylvia Reed, V. Pres. Audrey Linn, President Lisette Aldrich,
Secretary Susanne Dennis, and Rev. Jim Coakley
Guests: Religious Education Director. Steve Cornelius, and Mary Arrigoni
Audrey led the opening reflection. Check-In was completed.
The meeting was called to order by President Lisette Aldrich.
Agenda Review- A motion was made, seconded, and approved to approve the agenda as written.
Secretary’s Report- Action Items from the last meeting were read. A motion was made, seconded and approved to accept the minutes of the
last meeting.
Treasurer’s Report- Sylvia explained several items of the financial statement she had presented. Steve had questions about the CPA Audit
report which we had been given. Lisette suggested everyone read the document and be prepared to discuss it at the next meeting in February. A
motion was made, seconded and approved to accept the Treasurer’s Report.
Emergency Wound Care- Mary Arrigoni presented a training workshop she would like to present to the congregation. There is a kit for which
there is no charge she will order for the presentation. A motion was made, seconded, and approved for her to move forward with the presenta-
tion.
Membership Partnership/Minister Dinners- Mary Arrigoni presented information about the Outreach Meeting which meets monthly. She also
discussed that five dinners for Jim have been held at this time. Jim thinks the dinners have been productive from his point of view. Mary also
stated that another Chalice Circle group has been started with her now leading two groups.
Review Strategic Goals- We looked at the Membership Goal. Tracy has expressed that she no longer has enough time to plan and carry out all
the membership duties that she has. She has lots of ideas but not enough time. It was suggested that a small committee could help her to follow
up on her plans and ideas.
Ministry (goal) was also discussed. A Chalice Lighters Grant is in the works for a grant to help reach our financial needs to add another quarter
time to our Minister. Susanne will announce again on Sunday to gain a few more Chalice Lighters to help reach 20% of our members.
R E Youth (goal)- A family open-house event was discussed but nothing firm.
Lisette will begin with The Stewardship Goal at the next meeting.
Music Survey Follow Up-, A Time/Talent Survey. Audrey will put together a survey monkey to gather information.
R E Report- Steve reported that Sarah will be finished teaching in March. We can’t count on her for next fall. We will have to begin looking for
a new RE Teacher.
Minister Proposal for a 3 year Contract- Rev. Jim reported that Kimberly Clark is offering voluntary opt-out plans. His intent is to retire but
he wants more ministry if he does retire. He already has half time from Stevens Point and would like to round that out with half time from us for
the next 3 years. Of course we are not financially able to quickly accept that offer from him but plans are in the works. He presented all the in-
formation we would need to meet his salary and benefits.
Action Items: (Underlined above)
Lisette will bring back the CPA Audit next month for discussion.
Mary Arrigoni will make plans to present her Emergency Wound Care.
Susanne will announce a Call for Chalice Lighters on Sunday.
Lisette will begin with Stewardship Goal at our next meeting.
Audrey will put together a Monkey Survey for Time/Talent.
Meeting Process Review- We did start on time. Diana mentioned times on the agenda are approximate times and that members tended to cut
each other off at times.
Check Out was completed
Meeting was adjourned
Respectfully Submitted
Susanne Dennis
Recording Secretary
14Unitarian Universalist
Guiding Principals
1. The inherent worth and dignity of every person;
2. Justice, equity, and compassion in human relations;
3. Acceptance of one another and encouragement to spiritual growth in our congregations;
4. A free and responsible search for truth and meaning;
5. The right of conscience and the use of the democratic process within our congregations and in
society at large;
6. The goal of world community with peace, liberty, and justice for all;
7. Respect for the interdependent web of all existence of which we are a part.
Open circle mission statement
We come together as Open Circle Unitarian Universalist Fellowship, open to experi-
encing transcendent mystery and wonder, honoring diversity and religious freedom.
Open
Contact Information
Circle Open Circle Unitarian Universalist Fellowship
Vision Committees
19 E Third St
Statement Fond du Lac WI 54935
Caring Circle: Ann Teal
Common Grounds: TBD
Phone: (920) 924-8598 Décor: Bev Gudex
Email: Earth Justice Now: Diana Beck
To be a opencircleuuf@gmail.com Facilities: John McDowell
Hospitality: Jane Dennis
transforming Membership: Tracy McDermott
Consulting Minister
presence in the Jim Coakley,
Ministerial Leadership: Jeff Reed
Nominating: Jane Dennis, Bev Gudex, Karen
lives of OpenCircleMinister@gmail.com
Lindberg-Schuppe
individuals and Board Members:
Religious Education: Steve Cornelius
Service Planning: Sylvia Reed
the President: Lisette Aldrich Social Justice Now: Paisley Harris
Vice President: Audrey
Fond du Lac Linn
Stewardship: Tom Schuppe
Groups
community. Secretary: Susanne Den- Book/Video Club: Diana Beck
nis Chalice Circles: Sylvia Reed
Treasurer: Sylvia Reed Earth Spirit : Paisley Harris & Josh Moss
Members-at-Large: Men’s Group: John McDowell
Diana Beck, Ann Teal, Women’s Coffee Group: Mary Arrigoni
Marge Whitinger
newsletter submissions
Please send submissions for the newsletter to Tracy McDermott via email at
opencircleuuf@gmail.com. Please include the word “newsletter” in the subject line.
Open circle is on facebook! ’like’ us at:
https://www.facebook.com/pages/Open-Circle-Unitarian-Universalist-Fellowship/115997188421362?fref=ts
Check out our website at: http://www.ocuuf.org– check out our YouTube link!
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