HOME
SUNDAY SCHEDULE
NEWSLETTER
CALENDAR
DIRECTIONS
LEADERSHIP
PROGRAMS
OUR BELIEFS
SERMONS
RELIGIOUS EDUCATION
SOCIAL ACTION
ABOUT US
CONTACT US


Previous Newsletters

Inside This Issue

10 Things You Never Hear in Church
- Rev. Dr. Daniel O'Connell, Lead Minister .

1. Hey! It's my turn to sit in the front pew!
2. I was so enthralled; I never noticed your sermon went 25 minutes over time.
3. Personally I find church much more enjoyable than golf.
4. I've decided to give our church the $500 a month I used to send to TV evangelists.
5. I volunteer to be the permanent teacher for the Junior High Sunday School class.
6. Forget the denominational minimum salary. Let's pay our pastor so he can live like we do.
7. I love it when we sing hymns I've never heard before!
8. Since we're all here, let's start the service early.
9. Pastor, we'd like to send you to this seminar in the Bahamas.
10. Nothing inspires me and strengthens my commitment like our annual stewardship campaign!

When I consider that Bonnie and I raised our pledge from $1200 to $1800 last year and raised it again another 10% this year, I know I feel good about what's going on at Eliot and what the future holds in store. I hope you feel good about our future too.

This year we're doing a face to face canvass, which means meeting with a canvasser at Eliot, a coffee shop, in your home, or some other comfortable location. This gives folks at Eliot a chance to get to know each other, and to talk about what really matters here.

Our canvass kicks off on Apr. 10, and our canvassers are old-timers and new-comers. This is one of many opportunities to tell folks at Eliot how you think we're doing- it's also the main opportunity to periodically consider your financial gifts to Eliot Chapel. And every little bit helps!

Strategic Planning Update

Work on the Eliot Unitarian Chapel's Strategic Plan began almost two years ago, with discussions that centered on defining our Mission. Last year Eliot Members and Friends weighed in on our new Mission statement before the Board adopted it in August. The Strategic Planning Committee has now completed a draft of the plan and is interested in your thoughts prior to finalizing it. Implementation is expected to begin next church year.

The Mission statement - "Eliot Chapel, a Unitarian Universalist community, gathers to foster free religious thought, nurture spiritual growth, and act for social justice" - provided the Strategic Planning committee with the structure for all subsequent work. The underlying question became "If we are to fulfill our mission, on how would we focus our energies?" A major step in formulating the plan came last November, when over 120 Eliot members and friends gathered in small groups to discuss our shared future. Each small group completed the sentence "In 2007, Eliot Unitarian Chapel will…." (The raw data is available for review in the Library and on the Eliot Chapel web site.) After all the data was compiled, the Strategic Planning Committee sorted, reviewed, read and reread the input, and drafted the following six strategic goals:

1. We will develop a stewardship culture, as evidenced by the congregation's active participation in the nurturing and maintaining of Eliot Unitarian Chapel.
2. We will establish the presence of Eliot Unitarian Chapel in the greater community.
3. We will create a communication culture that fosters greater individual involvement and participation in Eliot Unitarian Chapel's activities.
4. We will broaden the scope of, and increase emphasis on, education at Eliot Unitarian Chapel.
5. We will have safe, attractive and effective facilities to support all the activities carried on at Eliot Unitarian Chapel, and to provide for future needs caused by growth and new programs.
6. We will support, nurture and enhance the spiritual growth of all friends and members of Eliot Unitarian Chapel.

• In each of the next three newsletters, two of the goals will be discussed in greater detail.
• The draft of Strategic Goals and associated possible objectives and tactics is available in hard copy in the Library and on the Eliot Chapel website in the member/friend area.
• A member of the Strategic Planning committee will be available after each service in April and May in the Library to answer any questions you may have.

Welcome!
- Jerry Higginbotham, January 12, 2003

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.

I was born at the end of the great depression into a religious environment of legalism and fundamentalism. There were two churches of our denomination in my hometown. My father's family was in the "wrong" church; my mother's family was members of ours - the "right" one. Minor differences of opinion divided the churches and families as surely as if one were Muslim and the other Jewish Orthodox.

As an idealistic youth, one Sunday morning I publicly prayed for God's blessings on Christians everywhere. Following the service, church leaders sternly warned me never again to infer that there were Christians other than in our church. My father, although lacking even a high school diploma, became a self-educated evangelist/minister in that church where he continues active in his 92nd year.

Leaving that church, my immediate family spent most of my adult years in a more liberal protestant denomination. In the sixth decade of my life, however, I decided to be free of the hypocrisy of pretending belief in traditional Christian doctrine. This led me one Sunday several years ago to visit Eliot Chapel where I found a total experience which spoke to both my heart and mind. A place without dogma, doctrine, or creed where I learned about a new trinity of freedom, reason, and tolerance ... where it wasn't necessary to believe in supernatural beings, events and places ... a place where music was at the opposite end of the quality continuum from the a cappella congregational singing of my youth. Long ago, a co-worker spoke often of his gifted son; imagine my surprise to find that gifted, albeit quiet and shy son, conducting the Eliot choir I joined.

After a lifetime of Bible emphasis, I was impressed by the brochures and pamphlets from the Unitarian Universalist Association, and books in Eliot's library such as Losing Faith in Faith, A Chosen Faith, and Challenge of a Liberal Faith. And serving on the Program Council made me aware of the great variety of opportunities Eliot provides for small group involvement which I enjoy as a member of Friday Forum.

Eliot Chapel is indeed a place seeking truth, freedom, and beauty which touches and uplifts my mind and spirit. So may it be for you.

Our Sympathies

To Irmgard Voss and family on the death of her brother, in Germany.

Did You Know . . . ?
- Rich Vaughn for the Membership Committee

• It appears that fewer churchgoers today inherit their faith from family and culture? Many of us, who are Eliot Chapel members, first recognized some things about faith and commitment, and then learned that there was a very old religious movement with which we agreed - but of which we'd heard little. Despite the stunning accomplishments and influence of Unitarian and Universalist leaders - past and present -orthodox faith groups who embrace "right belief" over honest inquiry, hold the numerical high ground today.
• Unitarian-Universalism chooses not to insist that we all believe alike! In fact, hundreds of families over Eliot Chapel's nearly 50-year history have brought their children here to be exposed to possibilities of faith and belief.
• Our Adams Hall is named after James Luther Adams who taught that, "Faith is not fundamentally about one's beliefs but about one's commitments."
• The commitment of those who preceded our "discovery" must be matched by us, to keep such an ideal and place ready and welcoming for others - and especially children of all ages. Our annual Pledge request is a time to measure our commitment against our priorities.

Our canvass theme this year is moving forward together. This year will bring a canvasser to your door to talk about our budget and any issues you may have. This is the largest canvass in some time involving over 75 members and friends. It all begins on Apr. 10.

Great news ...stop... Over 50 members/friends met last week to work on campaign ...stop... Brochures mailed ...stop... Board of Trustees increased their pledges by 15% ...stop... Momentum is building ...stop... Final preparations in place for Commitment Sunday, Apr. 10 ...stop... Welcome your canvassers with an open heart ...stop...

Did You Know . . . ?
- Rich Vaughn for the Membership Committee

• That well-off people often feel poor and that many on the low end of the economic scale often feel materially blessed. Could that relate to values, commitment, and the way we think, possibly!?
• Some Eliot Chapel members, past and present, borrowed against their homes and made other sacrifices to expand this facility from the simple stone sanctuary purchased in 1961 to the excellent multi-roomed haven for adults and children who are served in a variety of ways every day of each year. Now that is commitment!
• Our annual Pledge Drive each spring is a time to reflect and act on our commitment to things larger than ourselves - and examine our priorities.

To the Bergfried Fire Crew
- Jim Lyon, for the Bergfried Committee

Many thanks to the Bergfried fire crew members who made the 2005 burn the most successful yet. Participants included Jim and Jacob Hershey, Gene Hutchens, John McIntosh, Mark Nissen, Flo Reaves, Dale and Kirk Smith, and Rich Vaughn.

Special thanks go to Dan Shreve for disking the fire break. Check out the bulletin board for photos.

To RATI Volunteers
- Bill & Joan Clarke, RATI Coordinators

Apr. 17 - 23 is National Volunteers' Week and we would like to say a special thank you to everyone who has volunteered for Room at the Inn. There are many of you, including those who do the laundry, cook, spend the night, and drive our guests to and from the day site. There are too many names to list here so this week we would like to pay special tribute to the drivers.

You don't see their names on the sign-up sheets because they are on a schedule to drive once every three or four months. Our drivers are: Kevin Brownfield, George Davis, Teri Diekmann, Judy Evans, Jean Ann and Bud Funk, Nancy Hershey, Jerry Higginbotham, Doug Hopkins, Barb and Boyd Jones, CJ Larkin, Sheila Leander, John and Debbie Maguire, John McIntosh, Kathy Mead, Ann Petlin, Jeff Sadler, Erv Steinberg, Bob Tiemann, Ann Tierney, Lew Trescott, Bruce Williams, and special thanks to our driver coordinators, Jim Robinson and Gary Miller. If you would like to join this special group, contact Jim or Gary.

We are also looking for someone to help coordinate the hosts. The coordinator simply makes sure each night is covered. If you are interested in helping, please contact us.

Be a Philanthropist!

Have you ever dreamt of giving money to small deserving organizations to aid them in their work? Here's your chance to be a philanthropist! Just complete the application, available in Visitors' Corner or request one from the office at (314) 821-0911, to nominate an organization that could benefit greatly from a small grant. The committee encourages diversity among nominations and favors small non-profits who may not have other funding avenues. Return the application to Joy Gorden, in the office, by Sun., May 1.

Secondly, we need 5-7 social action enthusiasts to join the Outreach Committee. Each year the Outreach Committee reviews applications for grants and decides which deserving organizations receive funds. The committee usually has two to three meetings in May to review applications, verify information, and distribute funds. Contact Linda Polcyn or Lori Allen for information.

Gay/Lesbian Classic Cinema Night

The Welcoming Congregation Forum invites you to join them for a night of movie classics from the gay/lesbian community on Apr. 10 from 6:00 to 9:00 p.m. in Adams Hall.

Join us for this evening of cinema classics. Invite your friends. All are welcome! Refreshments will be served. No admission is charged. For further information contact Lynn Murphy.

An Evening of Chamber Music
Saturday, April 9 at 7:30 p.m.

[This concert is postponed]

[If you purchased a ticket you may receive a refund by contacting the person who sold you the ticket or you may retain the ticket for the rescheduled concert in the fall.]

Buon Giorno!

Are you new to Eliot Chapel, or do you feel that way no matter how long you've been here? If so, please join new members, New "U" alums and new friends of Eliot Chapel on Sunday evening, Apr. 17, from 5:00 to 7:00 p.m., in Adams Hall for a semi-potluck Italian Dinner, sponsored by the Membership Committee. The lasagna (both meat and vegetarian) will be savory, with cheese pizza for the bambinos; the side dish you bring can have an Italian flair, if you wish; and the conversation will be as warm as sun-drenched Italia! Come with "famiglia" or "o, solo!"

If we inadvertently missed you with an invitation, or you'd like to come, please phone Claire Robertson, Membership Chair, at .

Eliot Bridge Game

This month's open bridge game at Eliot will be Sat., Apr. 23 at 7:00 p.m. To reserve your place contact Sue Webster by 9:00 p.m. Sun., Apr. 17.

Thereafter, two more games are scheduled: Sat., May 28 and Sat., Jun. 25. Singles and couples are welcome. Mark your calendars now.

Seder Dinner

Sun., Apr. 24 in Adams Hall - doors open at 5:00 p.m.; ceremony begins at 5:30 p.m.

Join us for the dramatic story of the Hebrews' escape from Pharaoh and the 40 year journey into the wilderness. There will be food and music. The Haggadah, our guidebook for the evening, unfolds the story and participants tell the tale that has been told for hundreds of years. Since this is a special occasion, only certain foods can be brought to the table. Please contact Larry Ross at for recipes that are appropriate for this occasion.

Men's Advance

Apr. 29, 30 and May 1 is the weekend for Eliot men (Sensitive New Age Guys - SNAGs) to advance at Bergfried this year. Sign up on the lumber plank in the Adams Hall hallway. Use your Vitronix to carve at least your initials. We ordered a big pig that can feed a good sized group, so come out even if you miss the registration but call Dick Haynes so he can adjust other supplies for last minute add-ons. We're pretty loose on that, too.

We will be working on maintenance of the recently purchased cottage. The entrance driveway now goes behind this small, green house at the top of the hill and is a safer access point. Come on Friday for campfire camaraderie that evening or arrive on Saturday for the oven baked pig dinner. The cost was determined at the almost secret meeting which occurred Apr. 2, too late for the publication deadline. The campground has only primitive facilities but you can get by with just money, beer, and cigars. The combination Burger King and Phillips 66 in Hermann (on the left where you turn right heading west towards Gasconade) opens at 5:00 a.m. and have delectable offerings for breakfast and lunch; the convenience store has all of life's necessities. We still need a bugler to play reveille.

Directions to and description of Bergfried are available on the web site. Attendance prizes awarded if you find it. The wildflower fields were burned in March so bring your Petersen's Field guides to weeds and wildflowers. We will be doing identifications and creating charming bouquets. Final details, registration forms and workshop information will be posted in the men's room. You should believe only about half of that information. For an explanation of which half look for men wearing tan baseball caps with maroon visors. They know all the secrets.

You're Invited ...
- The Art 4 U Committee

There will be a reception honoring the artists who participated in hanging their work in Adams Hall this year. Please join us after the second service in Adams Hall on May 15. Refreshments will be served.

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., Apr 19 - Book review of the Missouri book of the year, Betsey Brown by Ntozake Shange. Coordinator, Janie Fowler

Tue., Apr. 26 - Lunch at Ladies of Lucerne Tearoom. Leave Eliot at 10:15 a.m. Coordinator, Janie Fowler.

Summer Fun

Registration begins Mar. 1 for Eliot Chapel Nursery School's Summer Play Program. There are three sessions: Session A runs from Jun. 14 - 23, Session B runs from Jun. 28 - Jul. 7, and Session C is from Jul. 12 - 21. The Play Program is Tues, Wed., and Thu. mornings from 9:00 a.m. - 12:00 noon. Tuition is $118.00 for each session. One-half the tuition is due at registration; the balance is due by May 24.

The children enjoy a happy, relaxed morning with emphasis on art activities, water play, outdoor fun, and nature awareness. The program is staffed with regular nursery school personnel and several junior helpers.

For further information, contact Sally Schoenecker or Anne Marie Schweiss at (314) 821-0982.

RE News - Who Needs You?
-- Joan Casey, RE Director,

April showers bring May flowers and it seems our RE Department's April busy-ness will bring us many delights, as well. Tickets for A Night in Nepal, the fundraiser to benefit Mitrata-Nepal, an orphanage in Katmandu, went on sale in Adams Hall at the donut table on Apr. 3 ($5 per individual or $10 per family). This is the spring service project sponsored by the 6th grade GATE students and their adult GATE partners. We've been busy planning games, foods using delicious Nepalese recipes, and crafts for attendees to enjoy. The evening is on Fri., Apr. 29 from 6:30 to 8:00 p.m. at Eliot Chapel. We hope that many of you will want to participate. Donations are also accepted if you are unable to attend. (Please see our "ad" in the print edition of the newsletter.)

On Apr.10, Rev. Bonnie Vegiard will lead our final Family Worship of the year in Adams Hall. Family Worship services run concurrently with the adult service in the sanctuary. Families with children pre-kindergarten and up are encouraged to attend together, although everyone is invited. The nursery, Intermediates and GATE students and up all will meet as usual.

Also, during the entire month of April, we will be recruiting for 2005-2006 teachers. We would like to fill all our slots for the entire year from September through June, so stop by our recruitment table in Adams Hall any time between April 3 and April 24 to sign up for your dream class. You may also contact Joan Casey directly by calling the office at (314) 821-0911.

See you at the recruitment table!

Music Notes
-- Jan Chamberlin, Music Director,

Coming up:

Graduating Youth

Our graduation service will be on Jun. 13. One aspect of the service will be to acknowledge all graduating seniors that are affiliated with Eliot Chapel. If you know a graduating youth that would like to be included in this service, please contact Susan Maginn at . Thanks!

A Reminder about Your Commitment

Operating Fund pledge statements for the third quarter (Jan. - Mar.) of Eliot's 2004 - 2005 fiscal year have been mailed recently. If you have any questions about your statement, please call the office.

Members and Friends are reminded that full payment of your 2004-2005 pledge is due by Jun. 30, 2005. Please plan accordingly; we are just 90 days from the end of Eliot's fiscal year. Your pledge is essential to the budget and Eliot's operation. If you are unsure how much you owe, please contact JoAnn.

If you have begun paying your 2005-2006 pledge, please mark "05-06" on your check so it may be properly applied. Thank you.

Parking

The Farmers' Market will be in full swing soon. Please do not use their parking spaces for church services or events during their business hours.

Newsletter Reminders
- Nancy Singer

Newsletter articles should be less than 250 words and must be submitted by noon on the deadline date. The easiest way to submit an article is to email it to . If you are concerned about the article being received, request acknowledgement of receipt; I'd be happy to do a return email to you. Thanks.

 Home   Sunday Schedule   Newsletter   Calendar   Directions   Leadership   Programs   Our Beliefs   Sermons   About Us   Contact Us