EUUF Info ..................................... 2 Connection Page ........................... 3 From the Minister ......................... 4 Evergreen's Offerings ..................... 5 Volunteer Appreciations .................6 Full Week Faith ............................. 7 Stewardship & Updates .................8 UUA, Holidays and Days of Observance .....................................9 EUUF Events & Playing with the Season ..............................Back Page
Late Spring 2021 | Covers May 2nd through June 20th
please e-mail newsletteR@evergreenuu.org for a print copy
from the minister - on page 4
Newsletter
"It’s beyond cliche at this point to talk about the seemingly- abnormal times in which we live - but how can we not comment on them? The rhythm and feel of our day-to-day lives has shifted radically. For an extended period of time. Some of us are chomping at the bit to get to socialize again and some of us have become so used to not doing so that trying to do so again feels daunting... " continue reading on page 4
Evergreen
Table of contents
For all the mothers and mother figures The grandmothers, aunts, and extended family members who mother The soon-to-be mothers, the wish-they-were mothers, the never-wanted-to-be mothers, the “it’s complicated” mothers The birth mothers, foster mothers, adoptive mothers, stepmothers The “used to be Dad” mothers and “more than one Mom” mothers The single mothers, separated mothers, stay-at-home mothers, unhoused mothers The grieving mothers, those who grieve their mothers, and those whose grief is complex For all the communities that mother And for all who depend on the Great Mother You are held — and beloved.
For all the mothers By Lindasusan Ulrich
On Thursday, April 8th Mari & Alli hosted a Zoom meeting to share the ins and outs of how to host the Worship Service, and invited involvement with tiny tasks. Many of the tasks involve things many congregants already know how to do! This document is both a sign-up sheet and a How-To. Each task has a column, and the headings of the columns are linked to documents that list requirements and give instructions on how to perform the task. Many of the tasks also have instructional videos made by Mari -- brief and to the point. These tasks include: Running the slideshow (screen-sharing) Managing breakout rooms for Coffee Hour Usher (admitting people from the waiting room) Spotlight Speaker Greeters - posting in the Chat Box Recording the Sermon Attendance & more... We need your help! Please join us! Contact Alli on Slack or at evergreenuu@comcast.net for more information and/or to add your name to the sign-up sheet and be added to the #tech-hosts Slack channel. There's plenty of opportunity to practice and join in rehearsals to see the flow before committing!
Weighty Matters by Sue Pace Who can doubt it? It presses on eyelid bears down on shoulders tramples tired feet and irons flat the long road to town. Yet that same spilled light drops 93 million miles without brakes or parachute to splash into the bright cup we call morning.
Faith action network spring summits
connection page
Submit Something For the Weekly Update, Newsletter or Sunday Announcements by clicking here! You can choose what the title will be, in which publications you'd like the announcement to run, how long it will be publicized, and what images will be included (if any.)
Join Evergreen's Youth on June 12th at 4pm as they raise money for RE activities, including curriculum drop-off packages, activity fees, and middle school and high school CONS. All are welcome to play. You can pre-pay for cards or purchase the day of. Keep an eye out in Slack and in the Weekly Update for more details, including Zoom info. Keep an ear out on Sunday mornings for announcements and updates from the Youth to share how close they are to their $500 goal. Will you win one of the door prizes?
Join us on Slack, a secure, private communication platform with a variety of channels to tune into for different topics / groups / teams at Evergreen! Email us for a link to join!
pastoral associates are available by phone, e-mail or zoom. contact them at pastoralassociates@evergreenuu.org
tiny tasks -- join in hosting the worship services
R.E. Bingo Fundraiser-- Saturday, June 12th
Join FAN for our ANNUAL SPRING SUMMITS where we'll gather with advocates in your region and in your issue area of interest to celebrate FAN wins and begin to consider what steps we might take together in the year ahead. This event is open to advocates across the state, and we will have breakout groups by region as well as issue topic. This year, Summits will be hosted online - after you RSVP, you will be sent the Zoom link a week prior to the event. Together, we look for new ways to be more effective at creating lasting change. Come network with others from your area at the Summit! This year the Spring Summits will be hosted on Sundays, May 23 and June 6, from 2-4 PM on Zoom, and will include the same content at each. You can register for each event through the links below:
poetry submission
Slack
Late Spring 2021
May 2nd - June 20th Sunday Worship Service 10:30 am Join Zoom Meeting Evergreen Unitarian Universalist Fellowship 1607 4th St., Marysville, WA 98270 www.evergreenuu.org 360-659-6621 Office Hours Please check with the Office Admin via email for in-person office hours MINISTER the Rev. Tom Bozeman BOARD PRESIDENT Fred Haist boardpresident@evergreenuu.org BOARD OF TRUSTEES board@evergreenuu.org OFFICE ADMIN Alli Curtis administrator@evergreenuu.org RELIGIOUS EDUCATOR Mari Budlong redirector@evergreenuu.org NEWSLETTER newsletter@evergreenuu.org
resources and needs survey
May 23rd -- Willow Place "Quilceda Community Services, established as a non-profit corporation in 1976, was formed to provide quality, individualized care for adults with developmental disabilities. The agency continues as a caregiving service provider at several locations in Marysville, WA. Seeing an unmet community need, the agency began offering a specialized recreation program called Willow Place, in 2008, with four attendees. Now having participants from eleven Snohomish County communities, the program is offered Mondays-Fridays with ten weekly sessions, serving dozens of attendees with a holistic, wellness program of ability-appropriate activities. Learn more here.
My dear folks, It’s beyond cliche at this point to talk about the seemingly-abnormal times in which we live - but how can we not comment on them? The rhythm and feel of our day-to-day lives has shifted radically. For an extended period of time. Some of us are chomping at the bit to get to socialize again and some of us have become so used to not doing so that trying to do so again feels daunting - and some of us are in both categories. Despite those challenges, the strength of this congregation has shone through. The degree to which folks have shown up in any number of ways: to help out with “tiny tech tasks,” to serve on the Facilities Analysis Task Force and the Local Trends & Possible Partnerships Task Force, to take care of our facilities and grounds, to serve on the Board, to make all sorts of ministry happen (from Religious Exploration to Covenant Circles to discussions of books and Big Questions to writing to worship services themselves) - it’s been wonderful to see. I wish that I could continue to ride with you all to the end of this congregational year - but unfortunately I will need to step away for a few weeks to recover from surgery. I am heartened, however, by how much I’ve gotten to witness you all bringing to the table this past year at Evergreen - and how much you have done so over the past several years, as well. Since I won’t be able to be with you in the same way for the next couple months, I’m very much looking forward to when I get back in mid-to-late June. By then, the Annual Congregational Meeting will have happened. We will have a new budget and new members of the Endowment Committee, Leadership Development Committee, and Board Of Trustees. And, from what the Board heard at the two Open Question conversations this year (about our congregational priorities and about our facilities), come the new congregational year that starts July 1, I will have my marching orders from the Board for this next chapter of our developmental ministry together. I’ve been in ministry long enough to see the sage wisdom of my elder colleagues come true. Congregational cycles move at their own pace - often slower than we’d like, sometimes more quickly - and I’ve been advised that it takes about three years (without a pandemic to deal with) to really start firing on all cylinders. Well, we’ve had a few years together already and we’ve clarified a new mission. We’ve laid the foundation for what is yet to come. And, given the strengths that I’ve seen on display at Evergreen this past year, I’m excited to stride forward with you all. In gratitude, Pr. Tom (he/him/his)
from the minister
*NEW* Click here to donate to the Split Plate Offering
Meet with Pastor Tom
To schedule a phone/virtual meeting, go to calendly.com/therevtombozeman. Pastor Tom wil NOT be available by text until late June. 774-353-0523. If you have an immediate need, please contact the Pastoral Associates.
Adult Programs Is there a program you'd like to offer? Contact Desmond at adultprograms@evergreenuu.org. Find more details on our website! www.evergreenuu.org/adult-programs
Split Plate Offering Highlight
Book Discussion Group - Last Wednesday of the month, 7:15 - 8:45 pm -May 26th "The Happiness Advantage" by Shawn Achor, The Seven Principles of Positive Psychology That Fuel Success and Performance at Work -June 30th "Breathe-A Letter to My Sons" by Imani Perry, UUA's Common Read for 2021 Contact Michelle Valentine for more information. EUUF Writer's Night - May 12th & June 9th (2nd Wednesdays), 6:30-8 pm Join in an evening of sharing your written works. Non-writers are welcome; the last part of the meeting will be dedicated to workshop / sharing writing techniques, methods and inspiration. Join Zoom Meeting. Contact Orient Coleman or Jen Broadway for more information. Big Questions - 2nd and 4th Fridays, from 7-9 pm Join here to discuss fundamental questions in philosophy. The questions take the Socratic form, “What is …?” What is justice? What is truth? What is it to be spiritual? All are welcome. Contact Desmond Smith for more information. Men's Circle - 2nd and 4th Tuesdays, from 7-9 pm We are a group of men who gather to share with each other our authentic joys, challenges and insights, with the goals of personal growth and mutual support. We pledge to create affirmative, compassionate gatherings through heart-felt sharing, deep listening, honest communication, and confidentiality. We currently meet via Zoom. Contact Dan Hall for more information. Women Investigating, Supporting, and Experiencing Wednesday, May 26th from Noon - 1:30 pm If you will be 60 or older this church year, please join us for lively conversation and lots of laughter! Throughout the year we will explore topics and activities pertaining to this age and stage of our lives, so join in when you can. Be ready for reflection, learning, growing, and FUN! Contact Sarah Taylor for more information. Common Ground Choir May 20th & June 17th (3rd Thursdays), 7:00-8:30 pm The choir has been rehearsing via Zoom meetings held on Thursdays at 7 p.m. If you would like to join us, please contact Kathleen at kathleengoff@comcast.net. All are welcome. We have also been rehearsing with practice audio files which can then be added to tracks on SoundTrap. This way we can still provide music for the virtual services and maintain our identity as a choir and as worship leaders. This is a valuable tool which we will continue to use even after things get back to the "new normal". Sunday Afternoon Covenant Circle May 23rd (4th Sundays), Noon-1:30 Curious about Covenant Circles.... Want to build community and lasting friendships with UU’s, while exploring spirituality and life’s meaning in a small group ministry setting? Every 4th Sunday come join us for The Sunday Afternoon Covenant Circle and see what they are all about! Sally Malan and Kelli Sparks, Co-Leaders Join Zoom Meeting Meeting ID: 275 674 184 Passcode: 067957
evergreen's offerings
These resources and ideas are tied to the theme and offer ways for you to engage with the worship series throughout the week.
Worship Associates Mike M, Marilyn B, Marijo D, Judy S, Desmond S, Netta B, Mike B, Marilyn M Mission Planning Team Ann K, Nancy M, Karen W, Skyler M, Marijo D, Laurel N Communications Committee (& Tech Hosts) Mari B, JW, Desmond S, Skyler M, Michelle V, Marijo D, Orient C, Ken S, Chuck T Stewardship & Fundraising Committee: Tom G, Dan H, Chuck, Nancy G, Karen W, Ryan Facilities Analysis Task Force: Paul, Barbara, Laurel N, Kirstine, JW, Dan H, Chuck Building & Grounds: Paul M, Nancy M, Judy, Desmond, Gaile S, Susan L, Julie C, Lonna W, Dave S, Anna, Nancy G, Mike B, Adrian, Dominic, Wenzels, Mike M Marysville Community Lunch: Alonna C, Sue P, Michelle V., Gaile S, Anna C, JW & Girl Scout Troop 46681 Local Trends & Possible Partnerships Task Force: Dave S, Orient, Diane B, Michelle V, Alonna, Kelli Pastoral Associates: Sarah T, Diane B, Carrie K, Joy L, Leala S, Helene W Board of Trustees: Fred H, Ann K, Ken R, Marilyn B, Tom G, Skyler M, Ryan W Committee on Shared Ministry: Mike M, Paul M, Elaine C, Chris M, David S Religious Exploration: Paul M, Barbara J, Michelle V., Ann V, Ken R, Kirstine O, Fred H, Marilyn M, Joy L., Sue G, Tom G, Orient C Common Ground Choir: Sandie B, Leala S, Diane B, Joy L, Mike M, Marilyn M, Jenny R, Desmond S, Chuck T, Ray M
UUSC's Human rights celebration
Thank you to all of the volunteers that keep Evergreen strong! We had a rough year, but we pulled together and maintained, even strengthened connections. We appreciate the time you contribute and the care with which you carry out your tasks. THANK YOU!!
Books / Poetry Fanny by Stephen Cosgrove Susan Laughs by Jeanne Willis My Brother Charlie by Holly Robinson Peete & Ryan Elizabeth Peete Benny Doesn't Like to be Hugged by Zetta Elliott We're All Wonders by J. Palacio King for a Day by Rukhsana Khan Movies How to Train Your Dragon -- PG Wonder -- PG Finding Nemo & Finding Dory -- PG Right Footed Soul Surfer (10+) Movement Tadasana - Mountain Pose (seated variation) Sit on a chair that has no arms. Scoot forward a bit and plant your feet firmly on the floor. Imagine a string attached to the crown of you head, tugging gently upward, lengthening your spine. Tilt your chin down slightly; relax your shoulders, lengthen your arms down to your sides and face your palms to the front. Breathe into your belly before filling your lungs. Bring your awareness from head to toe and continue to make small adjustments as needed to maintain posture, continuing to breathe fully but easily.
volunteer Appreciations
Please save the date for UUSC’s virtual Human Rights Celebration on Thursday, June 17, 2021 at 4:00 PM PT. We hope you will join us for an evening of inspiration and celebration in advance of the UUA’s General Assembly. The event will honor social justice leaders, featuring a keynote presentation, congregational recognitions, a musical performance, and appearances by special guests. More details will be posted here in the near future.
Find the E-Newsletter on the Homepage at EvergreenUU.org to access the live links.
Matt Meyer has written a book! "With a thoughtful story and lush watercolor illustrations,Desmond Gets Free introduces young readers to timely and nuanced concepts of justice and liberation in a kid-friendly way."
May 8th -- Asexual Visibility Day May 9th -- Mother's Day: Unitarian Julia Ward Howe wrote a radical call to create peace, advocating for the creation of a “Mother’s Day for Peace” to be held each year. May 19th -- Agender Pride Day May 24th -- Pansexual Visibility Day: Celebrates visibility of people who experience sexual, romantic or emotional attraction towards people regardless of their biological sex or gender identity. May 31st -- Memorial Day: Yale historian David Blight writes in his book, Race and Reunion, of May 5th, 1855, when newly freed slaves in Charleston, SC gathered to express gratitude for the Union soldiers who had perished in an open-air Confederate prison. “The war was over, and Memorial Day had been founded by African Americans in a ritual of remembrance and consecration.” June is Pride Month! Many Pride events are held during this month all over the world to recognize the courage of these early activists and celebrate the LGBTQ community. June 19th-- Juneteenth ...“wasn’t the exact day the Negro was freed. But that’s the day they told them that they was free … And my daddy told me that they whooped and hollered and bored holes in trees with augers and stopped it up with [gun] powder and light and that would be their blast for the celebration.” from Elizabeth Hayes Turner’s essay “Juneteenth: Emancipation and Memory”. June 24th -- Stonewall Riots Anniversary: A series of spontaneous demonstrations by members of the LGBTQ community against a police raid that took place in the early morning hours of June 28, 1969 at the Stonewall Inn in Greenwich Village, NYC.
Update from the treasurer
EUUF Endorses the Everett Herald's Environmental and Climate Change Reporting Fund
UUA news, holidays & days of observance
Our board has approved our public endorsement of the Everett Herald's Environmental and Climate Change Reporting Fund. This means we (EUUF) are publicly on the website of the Herald as supporting this fund. The Herald has a paid reporter, Julie Titone, and this fund supports her wages. You may have seen some of Ms. Titone's articles which include one about water in Island County and one about climate and land use law. Her reporting is in-depth, detailed and well researched. You may wish to consider financially supporting this fund as well, to promote this type of reporting.
We are in the last quarter of the fiscal year! We have received $124,512.07 in pledge receipts. We are $36,527.93 behind our pledge goal of $161,040. Please consider raising your personal pledge goal for the next fiscal year.
2021 UUA Virtual General Assembly
The Stewardship campaign for 2021-22 has 53 pledge units who have pledged $152,070. Although the campaign has officially ended, unofficially the committee is still canvassing 13 members and friends of EUUF who collectively pledged $7,754 las year.
InSpirit Book Recommendation - fiction: While Justice Sleeps by Stacey Abrams "Plunged into an explosive role she never anticipated, Avery finds that Justice Wynn had been secretly researching one of the most controversial cases before the court—a proposed merger between an American biotech company and an Indian genetics firm, which promises to unleash breathtaking results in the medical field..."
GA is the largest annual gathering of UU's, and provides opportunities to build deep connections and engage in faith development. This year, General Assembly will be completely virtual. Registration for GA 2021 is $200 per person Financial support for registration as well as a payment plan are available. June 23-27, 2021 https://www.uua.org/ga/registration
Stewardship Campaign update
Our Time Is Now: Power, Purpose, and the Fight for a Fair America. From inSpirit, the UUA bookstore: "A blueprint to end voter suppression, empower our citizens, and take back our country . Stacey Abrams is 2021 General Assembly Ware Lecturer. ..The book compellingly argues for the importance of robust voter protections, an elevation of identity politics, engagement in the census, and a return to moral international leadership."
EUUF Calendar
Playing with the season
Q: What did the tree say to spring? A: What a re-leaf! Q: What do you say when it's raining chickens and ducks in May? A: That's some FOWL spring weather!
On Sunday, June 27th, Evergreen will be streaming the UUA General Assembly Worship Service. Join us virtually for the largest annual gathering of UUs joining in worship. We will be streaming it with the same link and at the same time as our usual Sunday services with a coffee hour to follow. Recognizing the importance of shared ministry and the many innovative approaches to worship created by congregations during the pandemic, UUA President, Rev. Dr. Susan Frederick Gray, selected the First Universalist Church of Minneapolis to serve as worship leaders for this year's GA Sunday Morning Service. Music will be offered through collaboration with 2021 GA Choir Director Susan Mashiyama, the GA virtual choir, and musicians from First Universalist.
submission deadline for early summer newsletter: June 14th date range: june 20th through august 1st Send your submissions to newsletter@evergreenuu.org Or submit using this form Send your submissions to newsletter@evergreenuu.org
Sunday, June 13th, Noon via Zoom Join us after the service for our annual congregational meeting to vote on the annual budget and elections of board and committee positions. The Board of Trustees and Finance Committee will host a budget discussion on May 16th and 30th in Zoom breakout rooms after the Sunday service. Official notices with the agenda and full details will be sent out to eligible voting members two weeks before the annual meeting via email or mail.
Special General Assembly worship service
EUUF Annual congregational meeting
Please check the calendar on the Evergreen website for the most current offerings, activities, events and worship services. New to Evergreen? Please fill out the Guest Card at evergreenuu.org/sunday.