The Flame

Early May 2003

All Souls Unitarian Universalist Church of Kansas City, Missouri

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Good News Celebrations

---All Souls is hosting the Jesus Seminar on the Road, focusing on the role of women in churches, present and past.

---The creativity and beauty of our music, with our director and volunteers on Music Sunday, May 18.

---Rev. Bill Sinkford, President of the Unitarian Universalist Association, will grace our pulpit in May 11th.

---Our grounds our looking wonderful, thanks to Spring and the hard work of the Grounds crew, especially Chuck Downing and Don Lyon.

---All Souls was well represented at the Prairie Star District conference , with over a dozen attendees, including a youth representative, and Margaret McCormick, Walt Wells, Lynisa Robinson, Ted Otteson, and Allison Hartnett, who presented workshops.

---We learned that we also have the Religious Services and Forum Committees to thank, in addition to the others previously thanked, for the new state-of-the-art microphones in Bragg Auditorium.

Service Schedule 8:45 am and 11:15 am

April 27: Rise Up - Melissa Mummert

How might the story of Jesus raising a little girl from the dead guide our personal Unitarian Universalist journeys? To honor the Jesus Seminar visiting KC, we will look to the Bible as a source of wisdom. The Bible is not the central text of UU, yet its stories can be powerful metaphors to help us make sense of our modern lives.

May 4 - UU Scriptures - Jim Eller

How do UUs respond to scriptures? Is there just one set that guides us or many? Or are there any writings that are more important than any others are or are all writings the same? If there are no scriptures, what guides us? Join us for this tour of the potential sacred?

May 11 - The President Is Coming - Bill Sinkford

What does it mean to be a UU? Rev. Sinkford says that we UUs should have a 30-second summary statement about our faith. What would yours be? Come listen to our UUA president tell his version and imagine the future of our Association and of our movement. This will also be New Member Sunday.

May 18 - Music Sunday: Hierophany

Our All Souls Choir will be making a special musical presentation of Vivaldi’s “Gloria.” This is traditional sacred music. The words are in Latin, but the questions still arise, “What is sacred? What invites the sacred? Or Is Nothing Sacred?”

Forum Schedule 10:00 am

April 27: Local Political Action to Address the Patriot Act - Scott Burnett

A Jackson County legislator will discuss a resolution that will counter elements of the federal Patriot Act that threaten civil liberties.

May 4 - Alternative Sentences to Prison - Judge Marco Roldan

The speaker was appointed in 1999 as Jackson County Circuit Judge for Division 16 in Independence. Earlier he served for three years as the Jackson County Circuit Court’s first Drug Court Commissioner.

May 11 - Can the Public University Survive? - Burnele Powell

The speaker will be leaving his position as Dean of the UMKC School of Law at the end of the 2002-2003 academic year. From 1979 to 1995 he taught legal ethics and administrative law at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill.

May 18 - Attack on the Clean Water Act - John Simpson

An environmental attorney representing the Kansas Natural Resources Council will discuss laws passed by the Kansas legislature that challenge the scope and intent of the federal Clean Water Act. Will they get away with it?

News of other Services

UU Religious Odysseys imminent

Summer is just around the corner, and that means changes in our programming. The Forum will have its last program June 1, followed June 8 by the Religious Odyssey program every Sunday throughout the summer. Now in its seventh season, this popular summer program is an opportunity to learn more about the theological diversity and richness of the All Souls community.

Each week an "Odysseus" will share with us her or his theological journey, after which there will be time for the listeners to dialogue with the presenter. This is a unique opportunity for the listeners to retrace with each presenter her or his path toward self-understanding, personal growth, and usually, religious affiliation.

Please join us at 10am each Sunday from June 8 through August 31 as we share in the theological journeys of our fellow All Soulers. - Kathy Reigelman

Minister’s Considerations:
The President Will Be With Us and Peace Concerns
Jim Eller, Rev.

•I am excited to announce that the Rev. Bill Sinkford, the president of the UUA, will be with us May 11. Rev. Sinkford will preach to us in both the early and late services. He will visit our Church School children briefly between services. This is an exciting opportunity. Bill is coming to be with us in part to help culminate our five-month media campaign. Among the UU congregations involved we have hosted a variety of events to attract visitors.

In April we hosted environmental activist, Wes Jackson. The Lawrence UU Fellowship hosted Bill Schulz, the executive director of Amnesty International, formerly president of the UUA. All the while we have continued our high quality of programming. Now we have the chance here to thank Bill Sinkford for his confidence in us and to hear his hopes and vision for our movement. I encourage us to show up, to welcome our UUA president, and witness this bit of our evolving congregational history.

•We live in challenging times. The bad news is that the economy is down. The stock market has lost about one third of its value. This is creating hardships for individuals, for churches and for other not-for-profit organizations. Our country has been at war. We are investing extensively in our Middle Eastern foreign policies. The cost of these choices is just beginning to be understood, if it is at all. The consequences of these choices will take some time being sorted out. At best it is a bold and risky move. Our war choices have further undermined our economy, and it risks dividing our country between those who support this current foreign policy direction and those that do not. We live in challenging times.

We may not have been able to stop the war, but we can help build a just and fair peace. Nothing less honors the enormity of our risk and our collective investment. We can work to support humanitarian relief. We can insist that reconstruction projects have fair, open and competitive biding. We can insist on a just peace. - Jim Eller, Rev.

Intern Minister’s Column - Melissa Mummert

A couple days ago, an All Souls member and I spent all day at a conference for clergy and lay leaders on domestic violence. It was well worth our time. We met some wonderful church leaders and we learned important information about the local resources available to those affected by domestic violence. If you know anyone who needs help related to domestic violence, you can see me or Jim or call 816-HOTLINE and your number will be forwarded to domestic violence professionals who can help.

While the information imparted was well worth our time and we made good connections with concerned people of faith, I was struck by the tone of sexism that pervaded the meeting. All of the prayers offered were exclusively to God the Father. A middle-aged pastor referred to his middle-aged co-pastor wife as his "little girl." One male minister said that we must do better to protect women, who are, of course, "the weakest vessels."

I was grateful when the All Souler with me brought to the group's attention that there is likely a strong connection between sexism and violence. I hope she was heard. I have spent most of my time over the last four years in Unitarian Universalist institutions, which have, for the most part, honored and respected me and other women. This is good news.

But, the other day was a reminder for me that this work to eradicate sexism and other "isms" that plague us is far from complete. The work must continue. - Melissa Mummert

A Message from the Board of Trustees

The annual congregational meeting of the All Souls Unitarian Universalist Church is scheduled for Sunday, May 18 at 1pm. The meeting will include the election of members to the Board of Trustees, a report on the church’s finances, adoption of the 2003-2004 budget, and consideration of other appropriate matters.

Four years ago the Board of Trustees made a deliberate decision to staff for growth. In many ways this decision has proved successful. We have dramatically increased program opportunities. We have grown in membership. We have been recognized at the continental level and received the Eugene Pickett Award. In addition our pledge income has steadily increased in both absolute amount and average pledge per unit. So that is the good news.

Our challenge is that the growth in pledge income has not caught up with increased expenses and we have a cumulated operating deficit. This deficit has drained our operating cash reserves. We also have been hit with tough economic times and the loss of some of our most committed members due to death and relocation.

Despite the successes and energy of the congregation, for the first time in the last five years, we are facing a substantial decline in pledge income. Consequently, like many non-profits, we have to make some very painful budget cuts. It is particularly difficult for me to say that the only way to meet this level of reduction is to make substantial cutbacks in staff time.

The Board, staff and committee chairs are actively working to define appropriate functional cuts. We will NOT be a congregation that cuts staff time but expect from them the same level of service.

The Board will hold open town hall meetings on Thursday, May 1 from 7 to 8:30pm and on Monday, May 5 from 7 to 8:30pm at the church. The Board is interested in providing more information, hearing your concerns and would especially welcome creative problem solving. I believe that if we can pull together through the tough economic times we will end up stronger than ever. I invite you to be part of the solution. - Karen T. Medhi, Board of Trustees president

Lifespan Religious Education
Lynisa Robinson, Ted Otteson and Allison Hartnett

Spring and Summer Classes

“Walden: Thoreau as Spiritual Guide” - Facilitated by Mike McKelley. The UUA study guide for this course is available in the bookstore. Six Wednesdays, 7-9pm April 23 ? May 28.

New course - “Emerson as Spiritual Guide” - Facilitated by Melissa Mummert. Explore the wisdom of Ralph Waldo Emerson. Six Mondays - 2 June - 14 July 7-9pm.

“Building Your Own Theology - The Retreat” - This format has been a great success. Please join us as it is offered again. Facilitated by Chloe Mason Seagrove and friend. Saturday and Sunday, June 7 - 8.

“The American Creed,” by Forrest Church - A book discussion facilitated by former History Teacher Karen Winn. Three Wednesdays July 9 - July 23.

Adult Education

We are a congregation of lifelong learners. The scope of knowledge and experience among our members is wide and varied. Are there subjects that you would like to explore? Are there philosophies that you would like to study? Are there ideas that you would like to debate? Is there an area of expertise that you have that you would like to share with others? The Adult Education Committee is always looking for new possibilities for classes and workshops. We also are seeking facilitators. If you have thoughts or inspirations about events that you would like to see presented or if you would like to teach, please contact me. - Chloe Mason Seagrove

Sunday School Update

A modern masterpiece of art is hanging in the stairwell near the kitchen. Made by many hands over many months it is has turned the words of the UU Seven Principles into art. Kathy Burns designed this project about nine months ago to allow each class to make at least one part that, when added to the others, would give us this beautiful whole.

When you stop by to look at it, you may wish to remember how our church and in fact, our denomination, exists because of the creativity many individuals brought to a common cause. Our future will most likely be shaped in the same way -- and in part by the very hands that made this art.

Thanks for Easter candy

We appreciate everyone who brought in candy to help make Easter smiles.

Volunteer Opportunities in LRE

There’s a place for everyone in LRE. Call the LRE office for more information.
1) Committee members.
2) Phone callers.

LRE wish list

1) Sharpies.
2) Glue sticks.

Other Church News

Trolley run alert

On April 27 the Trolley Run and Walk to benefit the Children’s Center for the Visually Impaired will be under way from 75th & Wornall to the Plaza, starting at 7:45am. Early morning worshipers, please take an alternative route if necessary, and be aware of pedestrians, some in the streets.

Garage sale preliminary results ...

We will net at least $1200 for the church. More information will appear in the next Flame. Thanks to everyone who contributed stuff and then came back and bought things. And a special thanks to the dozen plus who sorted and carried and staffed the two days of the sale. - Walt Wells

Call for Artists

The Unitarian Gallery Committee is looking for artists to exhibit in the monthly shows for September 2003 through August 2004. To apply, send at least 12 slides of recent work, a brief résumé and a stamped, self-addressed envelope to R.A. Nixon, 4133 Terrace St., Kansas City, Mo. 64111. Deadline is May 31.

Habitat for Humanity home under way

Harmony House is a joint project of Harmony in a World of Difference and Habitat for Humanity (Kansas City) to bring together a dozen diverse congregations to build a new home every year. All Souls has now participated for over 10 years in building more than a dozen new homes. Individual members have worked on another fifty homes. On the first two workdays the first floor deck and the outside walls went up. Work will continue on Saturdays through the summer to completion in the 3300 block of Highland.

The next scheduled work dates for All Souls Volunteers are Saturday, May 10 and Saturday, June 21.

To volunteer or if you want more information contact me. A sign-up sheet will be available in Conover on Sundays. - Walt Wells

Wednesday - Food, Fun & Friends

The Wednesday Night Kitchen Wenches are proud to announce - The Wednesday night dinners will continue through the summer. Why heat up your kitchen when we have those yummy meals ready to enjoy? Plus, you get to see your friends, enjoy good conversation, and support the All Souls budget. It’s a deal you can't refuse. - Chloe Mason Seagrove

Volunteer Management Workshop May 17

All Souls thrives as a result of the countless volunteer hours that are donated to our church. The Committee on Ministry, along with Dori Bader as volunteer liaison for the congregation, are sponsoring a workshop with Pat Condif from the United Way. How can we best utilize our volunteer resources? How can we support and recognize those who so willingly and enthusiastically give their time and energy to our community? Pat will help us to understand how to best use the skills and resources of our volunteers. She is widely recognized as a leader in this field.

All interested folks are welcome to attend with board members and committee chairs especially encouraged to join us. Time - t.b.a. - Chloe Mason Seagrove for Committee on Ministry

Music Challenge Sunday

The choir wanted a challenging piece to perform on Music Sunday, May 18. We looked through our library and considered several pieces. Nothing seemed just right. We hired a conductor to work with us. She recommended Vivaldi’s “Gloria.” I shuddered, “It’s Christian. Some choir members will surely refuse to sing it.”

We learned a new word: hierophany. It means “the manifestation of the sacred.” To me it means that we are willing to look for, and find, meaning in a beautiful piece of music that was not written to encompass each of our unique beliefs in today’s inclusive language. It represents a special gift of bringing what is best in my religious background - music - to my current expression of faith without struggling to fix the inherently unfixable: language.

The language of music is perfect. There is even a word for the strain of my heart singing “Lamb of God” while not focusing on the expression of faith that I no longer share. Hemiola is a rhythmic term meaning a ratio of one to one-and-a- half, or one voice singing in two beats to the measure and another singing three beats to a measure. I sing my part, focus on my part and the down beats I share with other voices, but don’t hear their words, because that will mess up my part. Oh, the sweet resolution at the end when we come together.

We want to end our choral music season with a great big glorious noise, echoing the passion we have for all of life and the time we spend together. Two movements were previewed April 13 and 20. The entire work will be performed at both services May 18. Plan to experience with us an immersion in music from the past, sung by our choir with the heart and soul to make it timeless. And let’s change the name to Music Celebration Sunday. - Julie Milner, Music Committee chair

Canoe 2003

We're gathering at the river (the Niangua) June 13-15. For those of you who've gone before, same cost, same rules, more people. For newcomers, visit hospitality table in Conover to read all about it and sign up. We need registration in advance to get the group rate on camp and canoes. Bob Miller will have the sign up sheet, as well as the 'more than you wanted to know' sheet. See you there. - Caron Wells

Green Corner: Give us your tired ... batteries

Would you donate your used batteries to the church? If we receive enough positive responses, then we’ll start collecting your used batteries, and recharging them for the church’s use.

Such action would have double benefits. First, the church would save money. Currently, the church purchases batteries for a variety of purposes. Batteries power our hearing-assist devices, ad perhaps cameras, toys, boom-boxes, remote controls, and other devices.

Second, as the Environmental Protection Agency notes, “discarding batteries poses a clear environmental danger. Batteries contain heavy metals, such as silver, nickel, cadmium, lead, mercury, lithium, manganese, and zinc, which can accumulate and concentrate in waterlife, wildlife, and humans. An example of the danger posed by batteries is that one mercury battery contained in six tons of garbage exceeds the allowable limit for mercury in solid waste as established by the federal government.”

Sound good? Tell one of the Green Sanctuary Committee members: Walt Wells, Larry Falkin, Bruce Wiggins, or me. - Terry Wiggins

Fun while fundraising

WHO: 20 All Soulers, wearing white shirts/sweaters with black skirts/slacks. Novices as well as experienced ushers needed.

WHAT: Form a team to usher for Rigoletto by Verdi, at the Lyric Opera on Wednesday May 7.

WHY: Our service earns $200 for ASUUC, and after seating patrons we get to sit down and see this professional production free. It will be sung in Italian, with good super-titles in English.

WHERE: At the Lyric Theatre on 11th St.; we'll form carpools at 5:30 in the church parking lot. or you can drive yourself. (Street parking is free after 6.)

WHEN: Usher call is at 6pm Wednesday May 7 for the 7:30 performance. CALL Joan Olsen to sign up or ask questions.

Music is coming to All Souls

Friday, April 25th at 7:30 the All Souls CoffeeHouse will feature Larry Garrett www.angelfire.com/mo/LGarrett

Following Larry we will have an open mic for all who bring music and the spoken word. Join us for pizza, coffee, other drinks, and conversation. For information: David Hakan DavidHakan@kc.rr.com

At 8pm Saturday, April 26 at Rosy’s Bar & Grill ... Three of Kansas City best folk musicians will share a small piece of their 25 years of making music together. It is a benefit for a group of students from Penn Valley Community College. $10 at the door, cosponsored by the All Souls CoffeeHouse & Social Justice Committees and CrossCurrents. Check out www.Foolkiller.org

At 7pm Sunday, April 27 a CD release party will be held for Gary Kirkland's newest release. Gary remembers first performing at All Souls 20 plus years ago as the opener for Mimi Farina (sister of Joan Baez). He has many friends in the congregation and a couple of the younger ones are on the CD. This is rootsey-bluesy-folksy music with a little yodeling on the side. Tickets are $12 in advance and $15 at the door. Check out www.crosscurrentsculture.org.

May bridge on May 9 at 7:30pm

The second-Friday bridge for May will be at the home of Sherry Anspach and Rae Ann Nixon. Call if interested.

Men’s Group set May 8

The Men's Group will meet at 6pm Thursday, May 8 in Conover. The meeting will include: dinner, fellowship, a discussion on "What do men really want in a men's group at All Souls?" and program planning for the coming year. All men of All Souls are welcome. Contact Bob Jameson at REJameson@aol.com or Robin Parkinson for dinner reservations ($5 donation) or more information about the group.

Denominational and District Information

Come camp with UUs

Brochures or flyers are now available on the stair ledge near the office for several UU camps and programs, mostly summer programs, including:

—Ferry Beach, on the Bay in Saco, Maine
—The Mountain Retreat & Learning Centers, Highlands, North Carolina
—Unistar, on Star Island in Cass Lake in Minnesota
—AMUUSE (Adult Midwest UU Singles Enrichment) Singles Camps
—Fall into Cape Cod & Cape Cod Bed & Breakfast (not exactly a camp, but maybe in the same line of vacation-time planning

Character Camp for youth is June 16-20

Growing up has never been easy and today the challenges are huge. Character is what helps kids make clear distinctions between what is right and wrong, between moral principles and personal opinions. Shawnee Mission U.U. Church’s Character Camp is open this summer to children entering first through sixth grades.

Children will learn about the principles of character, trustworthiness, respect, responsibility, fairness, caring and citizenship - through fun, hands-on activities, crafts, stories and plays.

Character Camp is from 9-3:00 each day on the grounds of the Shawnee Mission UU Church, 7725 West 87th Street. The $25 enrollment fee includes all activities. Campers should bring a sack lunch. Snacks will be provided.

Completed registration forms and fees must be received no later than Friday, June 5. Call the church at 913-381-3336 for more information or visit their website at www.smuuchurch.org to download the registration form. - Sara Sautter, Director of Religious Education, SMUUCh

All Souls is a UUA Annual Program Fund Honor Society.