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Inside This Issue

Whither?
- Rev. Dr. Daniel Ó Connell, Lead Minister

That's a fancy word for "where are we going?" The question - where are we going - is another way of talking about our "mission," our reason for being, our hope for the world.

In order to know where we're going, we have to know who we are and where we've been, and get a sense of where Members and Friends want to go and need to go. It also helps if we have a sense of what the surrounding communities think about who we are.

Part of the expectations for a Member or Friend of Eliot Chapel is to let the leadership know what your hopes, dreams, expectations, and commitments are, so we can all walk together more in step with one another.

Finally, the ministers and lay leaders need advice and guidance from Members and Friends as to how we ought to use church resources to further our mission. The ministers and lay leaders believe they have a handle on this, but part of our responsibility is to check in with you about the big questions.

We have been and continue collecting this information from you in various ways. In November, the Strategic Planning Task Force set up some neighborhood meetings, and many of you met over dessert in one another's homes to answer some version of the question: "Where do we want to see Eliot in the next 3 to 5 years? The Task Force is sifting through that data and will issue a report to the Board and ministers when they finish.

During the month of January, there will be several order of service inserts with 3 questions about how you think Eliot Chapel should move into the future, so please be on the look-out for those. If you'd like to participate in the surveys - and we hope you do, especially if you haven't already - please check our web site for an online form, or come by, or call the church office, and we'll hold them for you or mail them to you.

50/50 Fundraiser

Congratulations to winners Steven Bain, Kevin Moore, Corrine Esneault, and Larry Reutter! Although we didn't sell the 150 tickets we had hoped to, with some additional generous donations, we did net over $3,500 for Eliot's operating budget.

We have received comments from some people who said they felt this fundraiser was inappropriate. Eliot does not have many sources of income, and relies upon pledges primarily to fund operations. In recent years, total pledges have not been sufficient to meet our program needs. For example, Eliot has had to use over $25,000 of reserves in each of the past two years to pay for current operations. The Board has publicly stated they will not accept further use of reserves to cover programs, and so fundraising through various means has become an important priority.

If you have other ideas of ways to generate additional revenue to support our programs, please share them with Larry Ross (the Board Stewardship Committee Chair), any other Board member, or one of our ministers.

Welcome, New Members
-- Claire Robertson, Membership Chair

We extend a warm welcome to Michael Cowen Nissen, who grew up at Eliot Chapel and signed the membership book on Dec. 12, 2004, and to our first new members of 2005, Nicole Chaput and Matt Armstrong, who signed the membership book on Jan. 2.

We're so glad to have you as part of the Eliot community.

Welcome!
- Boyd Jones, December 19, 2004

Each Sunday, a member of the Eliot community delivers the Sunday Morning Welcome. They share a personal story about how they came to be at Eliot Chapel, or what is meaningful here for them, or how they are living their faith.

My name is Boyd Jones. In a gradual process that has evolved since 1980, my wife, Barbara, and I have watched our own and many others' "becomings" as deeply involved and committed members of the Eliot family, as both adherents to and proponents of the principles and philosophy we have found immutable and vital to our happiness within this community. I think of our time within these walls as a pilgrimage, a journey that has let us learn as much about ourselves as about others, a journey of discovery that is never ending. I am grateful for the awareness I have developed - an awareness of the planet around me and my place in it; an awareness that I owe, in no small part, to the steeping in friendship and community, in liberal and stimulating thought, in humanity and tolerance, in social, intellectual and emotional challenge that I have experienced here.

If someone had asked me in, say, 1983 to consider being on the Board of Trustees, where I serve today as Chair Elect, I probably would have said, "I don't think so." Over the years, I have come to take great joy in becoming one who does not just go to a few social events, nibbling around the edges of the Eliot community involvement, but one who plunges in, who commits energy and resources in the hope that I might contribute to Eliot Chapel a fraction of what it contributes to me.

Yes, I have evolved, for the Darwinians among us. And part of my evolution has been a greater appreciation for the concept of stewardship. For true stewardship requires us to step up, as called upon, to protect, to nurture, and to secure for the future that which we treasure. And I am prepared to step up, to honor my pledge of time, talent, and significant financial support accordingly. As a good steward, I worry about my charge.

I worry that we currently operate at a deficit financially, that I could see a diminishing of the richness of the precious Eliot tapestry. Eliot diminished in any way? Not on my watch! Eliot and its wonderful community - all of you, have been there both literally and figuratively for me over the years, and I will likewise be there for you, and for Eliot. See, when it comes down to it, I'm selfish. Eliot is mine, and I WILL take care of what is mine.

Tsunami Relief

Thanks to everyone who contributed to the $1,819 collected on Sun., Jan. 2 which will be forwarded to the UUSC for distribution to relief agencies. If others are interested in contributing, checks can be mailed to: UUSC, 130 Prospect Street, Cambridge, MA 02139.

Do Your Part in 2005
- Bill and Joan Clarke

Was part of your New Year's resolution to do some volunteer work? How about helping with Room At The Inn? Laundry can be done any time during the week. Cooking requires a bit of work at home and spending 1½ hours at the church on Thursday at dinner time (you can eat with the guests). Driving takes 1 to 1½ hours Thursday evening and/or Friday morning. And, of course, hosting requires spending Thursday night at the church. (You can get a lot of reading done.) Your volunteering will provide food and shelter for those in need. Eliot hosts guests every Thursday night except the fourth Thursday. Sign up sheets are on the bulletin board in the hallway.

"Human" Justice?
- Rev. Dr. Daniel Ó Connell, Lead Minister

I was talking with someone recently who is going to an interfaith group meeting, and we talked about what a UU take would be on "human justice." She said some of the other interfaith participants were surprised at the topic.

For some orthodox, there is no real human justice, there is only God's justice - humans are inherently sinful and depraved. For Unitarian Universalists, "justice, equity, and compassion" is one of our core Principles.

Every great social justice movement in the history of the United States has had Unitarians, Universalists and later, Unitarian Universalists as activists. I think this is one reason we are more well-known than our small numbers would otherwise make us.

UUs have been involved in the founding of this country, in abolition, suffrage, and civil rights. From cleaning up mental institutions to reforming prisons; from promoting decent working conditions to marching in Selma, Alabama, our faith requires us to think seriously about how we act or don't act in the public square. Our heroes, like Dr King speak to us: Yes, if you want to say that I was a drum major, say that I was a drum major for justice; say that I was a drum major for righteousness. And all of the other shallow things will not matter.

Unitarian Universalists believe human justice is what we must work for - it is not "God's hands" that will make the world just - but our own. At Eliot, you can participate in Room at the Inn (sign up sheets in the hallway between the sanctuary and Adam's Hall); in Meal-a-Month (put canned food and toiletries in the shopping cart near the kitchen); in outreach to Meacham Park (come to a presentation on Jan. 23 at 7:00 p.m. in the Sanctuary); become involved in some of the Social Action Committee projects or Social Justice Council (call the church: 314-821-0911).

It's a new year. What commitments might you keep or take on to participate in "human" justice?

Fair Trade Coffee
- Larry Ross, for the Stewardship Committee

We are looking for volunteers to sell Fair Trade Coffee each Sunday.

The sales at Eliot made an impact on the coffee market in St. Louis as we have sold over 180 pounds of coffee since November. By selling Fair Trade Coffee, we are providing an outlet for family-run coffee growers to access the international market.

Please sign up at the Fair Trade Coffee table on Sunday. The farmers and Eliot appreciate your support.

New "U" - Your Questions Answered

Your questions about Unitarian Universalism and the meaning of Eliot Chapel for you will be answered in this introductory class. Ministers, lay members, and you will share thoughts and information. Your questions are an important part of the experience. New "U" is particularly interesting and helpful to those who may seek more involvement and membership in Eliot Chapel.

The class is offered on Sat., Jan. 22 from 9:00 a.m. - 2:30 p.m. Lunch and refreshments will be provided. Please register in Visitors' Corner or through the office at (314) 821-0911. This class will also be offered on Mar. 5.

Chili, Bunko & Bingo!!!
- Lydia Hopkins & Marcia McIntyre

Formerly Chili & Games Night, this year the FUN Committee is bringing you 2 new games - Bunko and Bingo! Join us for this fun-filled family night on Sat., Jan. 22 at 5:30 p.m. in Adams Hall! It's a new slant on an old tradition at Eliot Chapel. No wonder...it's a great opportunity to visit with Eliot members and friends of all ages! There will be Kids' Games (for children 6 to 10) in a separate room, charades, and babysitting.

Prizes will be awarded for the best Chili, Vegetarian Chili, and Dessert. Don't be shy - enter one of your kitchen delights in the contest and you may win a hand-painted apron! Prizes will be awarded at Bunko & Bingo as well!

Your admission fee is to bring one of the following: Chili, Dessert, Bread/Crackers, or Soda. Look for the sign-up sheet in the hallway outside Adams Hall.

For more information contact: Vicki Skow or Steve Dingus. We look forward to seeing you on the 22nd, so mark your calendars NOW!

What's Happening with Meacham Park?

You've been asked to donate time and money; now join us on Jan. 23 at 7:00 p.m. in the sanctuary as Linda Plocyn discusses the most recent events surrounding our commitment to our neighbors in Meacham Park. Eliot Chapel is committed, along with two other area churches, not only to helping with the physical rebuilding of this established community, but also to seeing that social justice is done. We have uncovered many issues that will affect us all, not the least of which include shoddy repair work, lack of inspections, and increasing resistance by the City of Kirkwood to providing any sort of explanations. Ms. Polcyn is Eliot Chapel's liaison to the Meacham Park Project that also includes First Presbyterian Church of Kirkwood and Kirkwood United Methodist. This discussion is sponsored by Adult Education & Enrichment. [Adult Ed class has been cancelled.]

Eliot Bridge Game

There will be an open bridge game once a month for singles and couples beginning in January. The games will be on the following Saturdays at 7:00 p.m. at Eliot: Jan. 29, Feb. 26, Mar. 19, Apr. 23, May 28, and Jun. 25.

If you would like to participate, contact Sue Webster at least one week in advance.

Eliot YUUth Art Exhibit

From Sun., Jan. 30 to Sunday, Feb. 6, artwork by our Eliot Chapel youth will be on display in the RE Wing near Children's Chapel and in the Taylor Avenue entrance area of the church. Girl Scout Sara Luckow, a senior at Parkway Central High School, organized the show as the final project for her Gold Award, Girl Scouting's highest honor.

Sara wants to thank Eliot Chapel staff, members, and friends who donated art supplies for the youth workshops and supported her efforts in achieving her goal. Please take the time to look at the masterpieces by Eliot youth, ages 5 - 18.

Winter Wonderland Retreat

Does January seem interminable? Does your spirit need a lift? The Family Support and Outreach Committee welcomes you and your little ones, ages 3 to 6, to attend a Winter Wonderland Spiritual Retreat for Preschoolers on Sat., Feb. 5, from 9:30 - 11:30 a.m. The children will come together to celebrate and appreciate the uniqueness of everyone while the parents indulge in a little winter renewal and rejuvenation. To register, please call Joan Casey at (314) 821-0911. Look for registration forms in RE classes; the registration deadline is Jan. 23. Hope to see you there!

The Stage is Set

Come one, come all to the Youth Coffeehouse on Feb. 5. Everyone is welcome and encouraged to attend. All youth are welcome to perform regardless of their age or talent. Sign-up sheets are outside the senior room and on the bulletin board on the way to Adams Hall. It will be a blast so come and support our youth. Contact Susan Maginn at or (314) 821-0911 with any questions.

Partner Church Trivia Night

The Partner Church Trivia FUNdraiser is coming Sat., Feb. 12. Tickets will go on sale for $10 per person after both services beginning on Jan. 23. You can organize a table of 8 people or just buy a single ticket and we will seat you with other singles or doubles.

Last year we sold out so don't wait too long. The emphasis is on FUN as we want to raise as much money as possible for our partner church, St. Martin, in Transylvania, Romania. The profits will go toward church repairs and other projects at St. Martin. Contact Sue Blandford for further information.

Women's Alliance

The Women's Alliance meets on the first, third, and fourth Tuesdays of the month at 9:30 to 11:45 a.m. in Adams Hall, unless otherwise noted.

Tue., Jan. 18 - NAMI Mental Health Program. Ronnie Henderson, Coordinator.

Tue., Jan 25. - Massage demonstration by Dr. Lori Huffman. Janie Fowler, Coordinator.

Thu., Feb. 1 - Crow Lake by Mary Lawson. Janie Fowler, Leader..

Religious Education News
-- Joan Casey, RE Director,

The Religious Education Department is busy with up-coming projects. Look for the article about the upcoming Winter Wonderland Spiritual Retreat article elsewhere in this issue. Also, please note the date change for the next Family Potluck - the new date is Fri., Feb 11 beginning at 5:45 p.m. We will eat first and then children will have their own fun activities while parents meet with Reverend Bonnie and the Curriculum Committee to talk about our two pillars during Spring Semester: World Religions and Social Justice. Potlucks are usually over by about 7:30 p.m. (If you names begins with A-D bring milk/juice; E-J bring dessert; K-R bring main dish; S-Z bring salad/veggies.)

GATE partners - don't forget our spaghetti dinner on Feb 5 at 5:30 p.m., followed by the Youth Coffeehouse. This is a fun evening for everyone, so we hope to see all of our partners there.

Don't forget Teacher Orientation for spring semester teachers is on Mon., Jan 17 from 7:00 to 9:00 p.m. You'll get to know your teaching team, receive your curriculum and teacher's packet, and you'll gain valuable information about teaching at Eliot, so don't miss it!

Finally, we'd like to thank all of the generous support of the UUSC during Guest at Your Table. We collected $503.50 for this worthy organization.

Happy New Year!

Music Notes
-- Jan Chamberlin, Music Director,

Thank you to all who made the Christmas Eve music so special: Dotty Storer for leading the Eliot Handbells, The Freivogel String Quartet, Pam Triplet and Bob Herman, and all the ringers and singers!

Allison Hendrix has graced our Steinway bench for the last 1-1/2 years at the 9:15 a.m. service and assisted with this year's Children's Chalice Choir. Allison had to move back to Michigan, unexpectedly, to continue her education. We will miss her. Her talent will be hard to replace.

Coming up:

Jan. 16	At both services the choir will sing King for a Day by Jason Shelton.
Jan. 23	All music will be selections from a Bach Suite by guest pianist, Kathie Kurtzman.

Study Leave

Rev. Bonnie Vegiard is on study leave from Jan. 4 through Jan. 16. Rev. Dr. Daniel Ó Connell will be on study leave from Jan. 24 though Feb. 7.

Office Closed

The office will be closed on Jan. 17, in observance of Martin Luther King, Jr. Day.

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