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Inside This Issue

An Eliot Challenge
- Rev. Dr. Daniel Ó Connell, Lead Minister

Where do great ideas come from? You! We raised $1,000 from anonymous donors and began a secret project. On Oct.2, as part of the Bring a Man Sunday service, I offered a specific challenge.

Toward the end of each service, I held up several envelopes. In large black letters was printed "Eliot Chapel Challenge." I told people that the envelope contained a challenge. If they would be one of the few who accepted the challenge - sight unseen - they would take the instructions written therein and will have between then and May Day 2006 to complete it.

Being a UU challenge, they were told they could work as hard or as little on the challenge as they wanted to. The only requirement was that they deliver one written page about their experience to me by May 1, 2006. I would then include portions of their writing in the annual meeting service and/or the newsletter.

There were 10 envelopes (4 at first service, 6 at second). In each envelope were two pieces of paper: a $100 bill and the following printed announcement:

The Parable of the Sower (Matthew 13:1-9)
[Jesus] told them many things in parables, saying: "A farmer went out to sow his seed. As he was scattering the seed, some fell along the path, and the birds came and ate it up. Some fell on rocky places, where it did not have much soil.
It sprang up quickly, because the soil was shallow. But when the sun came up, the plants were scorched, and they withered because they had no root. Other seed fell among thorns, which grew up and choked the plants.
Still other seed fell on good soil, where it produced a crop - a hundred, sixty, or thirty times what was sown. He, who has ears, let him hear."
Take this $100 and use it to promote UU social justice. How?

• Buy materials for a lemonade stand, sell lemonade, give "profits" to charity
• Contribute it directly to charity
• Invest it in something, give "profits" to charity
• Help an impoverished woman by providing a small loan. (www.WILFund.org)

The possibilities are limited only by your imagination and commitment. We are counting on you to "make a difference" by being a philanthropist with someone else's money. Of course, you can add in your own contribution if you desire. Put it all in a 1 page report due May 1, 2006. Have fun! (Rev) Daniel.

Now everyone knows the challenge that those ten folks accepted, sight unseen. That doesn't mean you can't take the challenge too. You just have to provide the "seed" money of $100. You can make this a family project and enlist your friends for ideas and "muscle."

Frankly, I can't wait until May Day to see how this has all worked out -- to see which seeds fell in among rocks, or weeds, or fertile soil. The goal isn't the biggest payoff; the goal is to take a risk for Love: to get creative, try something new, make the world a better place, benefit a stranger. Good Luck!

Welcome, New Members
Claire Robertson, Membership Chair

We welcome to membership in Eliot Chapel: Lisa and Cory Nykoluk, and Leslie and Keith Loving who signed the membership book on Oct. 2. A hearty welcome to full participation in our church community.

Covenant Group Reminder

If you are looking for a group of people to get to know well, to add to your sense of inner and outer spiritual exploration, don't forget there are still openings in our Covenant Groups. These groups meet monthly for spiritual support. Pick up a brochure in Visitor's Corner.

Tried that?
If you tried a Covenant Group, and felt that the experience didn't "gel" for you, but still think the idea might have possibilities, try a different group! We know each group has a different "feel" to it, and don't mind if you decide one doesn't work for you but you'd like to try another. Get in touch with Rev. Bonnie Vegiard to find a different group, (314) 821-0911, .

Kudos

More than 30 men and women participated in the Oct. 2 Work Party. Approximately 144 hours of effort were expended accomplishing a wide variety of tasks, including: scraping and painting; power-washing sidewalks and entrances, replacing light fixtures, outdoor trimming and cleanup, cleaning rain gutters, etc.

Thanks to: Jan Baldenweck, Kurt Bauer, Brian Casey, Fred Ciesla, Bill Fitzgerald, Sean Fowler, Tim Gardner, Tom Gayer, Paul Gayer, Jim Gender, Armando Gomes, Jerry Higginbotham, Robert Kokenyesi, Rachel Kokenyesi, Curt Kristofitz, Steve Lewis, David Maguire, Scott Marshall, Kevin Moore, Mark Nissen, Diane O'Leary, JoAnne Osburn, Larry Reutter, Dale Smith, Kirk Smith, Erv Steinberg, Brent Vaughn, Rich Vaughn, Brian Vent, Corey Vent, Elisa Voss, Irmgard Voss, Ron Wirts.

Donation Drop Off Times

Hurricane survivors, settling in St. Louis, need small and large appliances, furniture, home items, building supplies, etc. Items may be dropped off in the Eliot parking lot on Oct. 15 from 8:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. and Oct. 16 from noon to 4:00 p.m. For more information or to arrange pick up from your home, call (314) 984-8870.

All Eliot Katrina Workday
- Susan Maginn, Youth Program Director

There are 31 apartments that are being renovated by Faith Beyond Walls for families from New Orleans. On October 22, the Sr. and Jr. Youth Groups are going to be working in Kinloch with Faith Beyond Walls to prepare these units so families can move in by November. We'll need all hands on deck regardless of skill level. The workday will go from 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. You can come and go as you wish. Register for this (and other workdays) by signing up either on the Sr. Youth bulletin board (across from Joan's office) or in Adams Hall after a Sunday service.

This is a chance to stretch ourselves to offer our gifts of time and talent beyond the walls of Eliot Chapel.

Pray for peace. Work for justice.

Fresh Air 101

Join the Eliot Hiking Group for our next hike at Washington State Park on Oct. 22. We will meet at 8:15 a.m. in the Eliot parking lot and carpool. Email details for this and future hikes will be sent to those on the Hiking list. Contact Sue Blandford if you want to be added to the list.

Madonna Won't Be Here
- Lynn Murphy, For the Welcoming Congregation Forum

Unfortunately, she won't be able to attend the Welcoming Congregation workshop on Oct. 16, from 7:00 - 9:00 p.m. in Adams Hall. But, hopefully, you will. We will look at the topic of bisexuality and view the movie "Kissing Jessica Stein," a romantic comedy about two women who have dated men, date each other, and become romantically involved.

Join us for a movie, discussion, and refreshments; bring a friend, famous or otherwise.

Dessert and Training
- Bill & Joan Clarke

Join Room At The Inn on Thu., Oct. 20, from 7:30-9:30 in Adams Hall for dessert and RATI training. This meeting is for anyone who has or will be hosting, or who is considering hosting in the future. Sr. Mary Jo from the RATI shelter in Bridgeton will go over the simple procedures for helping our guests settle in and spend the night, handling emergencies, providing breakfast, and leaving in the morning. She will also provide stories and attendance prizes. For any questions, call Margie Maclin.

Benefit Jazz Concert

The Social Action Committee of Eliot and Olive Chapel Church will co-sponsor a concert to support the restoration of Quinette Cemetery, a former slave burial ground on Old Big Bend in Kirkwood. For the third year the featured performers will be the 17-member Jazz Edge Orchestra and vocalist Anita Jackson. The swingin' and singin' will begin at 7:00 p.m. on Thu., Oct. 20 at Eliot. Tickets are $15.00 and will be sold after church services and at the door. For more information, contact George Davis.

A Course in Miracles
- 40th Anniversary Celebration

During the weekend of October 21 - 23, members of the Eliot Chapel "A Course in Miracles" Study Group (ACIM) will be participating in a series of films, workshops and discussion, in recognition of the 40th anniversary of the scribing of this important, spiritual text. The activities for the weekend are being held throughout the St. Louis area, are open to the public, and are free. Eliot Chapel members Corinne Esneault and Jeanne Wilke will be presenting at the Saturday workshop sessions at the First Divine Science Church on Wyoming. For further information, please contact Corinne at . Also, the St. Louis Area ACIM Study Groups have a website with information on the events. www.liming.org/ACIM/ This is a great opportunity to learn more about "A Course in Miracles". The Eliot Study Group continues to meet every Monday evening from 7:00 - 8:30 p.m. on the lower level of the RE wing. It is open to Eliot members and friends.

Spiritual Journeys

"What's your spiritual type?" This could be a new kind of opening line, or the beginning of an in-depth journey of your own. Rev. Bonnie Vegiard introduced some ideas about spiritual disciplines in her sermon on Sep. 18. The entire congregation is invited to participate in an all-day spiritual exploration event on Sat. Oct. 22. We will form a year-long Spiritual Journeys group to meet monthly with Rev. Vegiard. This group will be limited in size and will require commitment to one's own spiritual journey and to the group. There is additional information to come, or contact Rev. Vegiard to find out more.

Couples' Communication Skills Workshop

ACME (Association for Couples in Marriage Enrichment) will be sponsoring a one day, 8 hour workshop on couples' communications skills on Sat., Oct. 22 at Eliot Chapel. This is a participatory workshop for a maximum of 8 couples. Confidentiality and respect are basic ground rules for all ACME events.

ACME is an international, not-for-profit, non-sectarian organization. Cost per couple is $45.00 for workshop and materials. Make checks payable to A.C.M.E.

For further information, please call Bruce or Trish or email . To register, fill out registration forms, found in Eliot's Visitors' Corner and mail with payment to Bruce & Trish Williams at their home address.

Bridge

Our October bridge game will be held in Adams Hall on Sat., Oct. 22, at 7:00 p.m. Couples and singles welcome. Please contact Sue Webster to make your reservation. Please call by the Sunday before the game. Thanks.

Coffee and Conversation

Oct.23.: Raised Fundamentalist - what issues do we still have "hanging out" in our psyches as a result of being raised in a fundamentalist or very conservative tradition? How do we deal productively with some of these issues? Coffee and Conversation is a chance to have an open discussion with other Eliot members on a topic. There is no presentation or "authority," only coffee and conversation! All are welcome. 7:00 p.m. in Adams Hall.

Get Flu Shots!

Who: Members of the Eliot congregation
What: U.S.-produced flu vaccine given by RNs and LVNs
When: Sun., Oct. 30 from 8:30 a.m. - 12:30 p.m.
Where: Eliot library
How much: $25, cash or check. The provider will bill for Medicare Part B if you bring proof of eligibility.
Dress: Arm-accessible sleeves.

Shots should take no more than five minutes per person. Shots will be given on a first-come, first-served basis; however we ask that you sign up to be part of a block of time to avoid long waits. Sign-up sheets will be available on Sun., Oct. 16 and 23.

Newcomers to Howl on October 30

Boo! On Sun., Oct. 30, the Membership Committee will host a semi-potluck Halloween Newcomers' Dinner for Eliot's new members, new friends and New U alums, all of the past two years. The time: 5:00 to 7:00 p.m. The place: "Addams" Hall. The attire: Costumes encouraged, or suggestions thereof, but a masked ball this isn't. The aim: Pure socializing. Childcare provided by prior reservation by Oct. 16. If we've missed you with an invitation and you'd like to attend, or would like additional information, please contact Claire Robertson ASAP at .

Friday Films Continue

Join us on Friday, Nov. 4 for the second in the acclaimed "Decalogue" series. This one-hour drama visits the life of a young woman who must come to terms with her betrayal of her husband that results in a pregnancy. Come at 6:30 to nosh and visit. The film begins at 7:00, and a discussion will follow. In Adams Hall, unless signs direct you elsewhere.

Third Annual Blood Drive

Sun., Nov. 6 from 9:30 a.m. - 3:00 p.m. Mark your calendars! Eat healthy! Sign up for donation times will begin Oct. 16. For more information contact Linda Polcyn.

It's Just Around the Corner

Mike and Vivian Antoine will again be hosting Thanksgiving dinner in Adams hall on Thanksgiving Day, Nov. 24 at 4:00 p.m. Details will be provided in future newsletters.

WomanSpirit 2006

Women of the Countryside Unitarian Church in Palatine, Illinois invite you to let your spirit rise and sing through workshops, meditation, music, dance, art, reflection, laughter, ritual, and the sharing of our stories.

WomanSpirit 2006 will focus on "Life Changes -- Our Transforming Power" with Keynote Speaker Selena Fox of Circle Sanctuary! Visit http://www.womenandreligion.org/WS2006.htm for information or contact Carolyn Burke .

Women's Alliance

We meet on the first, third, and fourth Tuesdays of the month from 9:30 to 11:45 a.m. in Adams Hall, unless otherwise noted.
Tue., Oct. 18 - Social Security Update by Myrna Frichtenbaum. Coordinator, Margaret Hasse.
Tue., Oct. 25 - Bird watching trip with Lisa Nansteel at Riverlands Environmental Demonstration Center in Alton, IL. Meet at Eliot at 10:00 a.m. Call Janie Fowler for lunch reservations.

RE News
- Joan Casey, RE Director,

Our 6th grade GATE program is well underway right now under the able direction of Carol Moreland, our current GATE coordinator, and this semester's GATE teachers, Jim and Shawna Lyonfields and Doug and Sandy Riggs. There are a whopping twenty 6th grade students paired up with adult partners this year. We've had a pizza party where we got to know each other better and the partners just went on a walk for CROP, an organization that strives to eradicate world hunger. Our walkers earned $938.34 for the cause. GATE partners are also selling doughnuts in Adams Hall after both services this semester and will decide what to do with the proceeds in the spring. And it's only October!

As for other RE activities, I hope that all of the Secret Pals, adults and children alike, are having fun receiving and sending gifts and messages this month. I want to remind you again that our party is on Fri., Oct. 28, from 6:30 - 8:30 p.m. It's really important that everyone arrive on time for the party, because all of the activities are done in pairs. We don't want anyone to be disappointed!

And fall teachers - don't forget the Teacher Planning Coffee, sponsored by the Teacher Support Committee, is on Sun., Oct. 16 from 8:30 - 9:00 a.m. for 9:15 teachers and 10:00 - 10:30 a.m. for 10:45 teachers. We will meet in Room 001 (lower RE level) and childcare will be in Room 006. This is a great opportunity for teams to get together and plan the rest of the semester, to ask questions about policies and procedures, to brainstorm solutions to class problems, or just to have a cup of coffee and a donut. We hope to see all of our teachers there. Happy October!

Music Notes
-- Jan Chamberlin, Music Director,

Coffee House: Nov. 19 at 8:00 p.m. Time to dust off the guitars and get ready for the Eliot Coffee House! If you haven't played your instrument in years, or have a favorite song, joke or "beat" poem to share, here's your chance to shine in front of a "forgiving" audience. It's all for a good cause. All styles of music are welcome for this enjoyable evening. Watch for sign-ups!

Chamber Music Concert: The Music Committee is sponsoring a concert of classical chamber music to benefit Eliot Chapel on Sat., Oct. 22, at 7:30 pm. Tickets are $10. The concert features pianist Jennifer Lim.

Chamber Choir : Meets on Wed. evenings from 7:30 - 9:00 p.m. and sings at the 9:15 Sunday services. It's a fun time learning the music, often followed by socializing. We've lost some basses and tenors over the years and need to replace them. Please join us if you sing bass or tenor. Otherwise we'll be switching over to a women's only choir.

Singing the Journey Song Fest: The St. Louis Area UU Council (SLAUUC) will host a sing-through of our new hymnal supplement, "Singing the Journey" after their Oct. meeting. Everyone is invited to join with UUs from all over the area to get acquainted with the new songs. The Song Fest will be at Eliot, Sat., Oct. 30 from 12:30-2:30 p.m.

To Clap, Or Not To Clap?
- Jan Chamberlin, Music Director

We have no hard and fast rule about clapping in services at Eliot Chapel. And we shouldn't. But we might consider for a minute our motivations. We clap because what we experience makes us so happy we can't contain ourselves; we clap because we approve and agree with what we hear or see and want to support it; we clap because we want to be polite and say thank you or when we think it's expected; we clap because other people are doing it.

It sounds like we should be applauding constantly through our worship services! But we don't. Why? For the same reasons we don't talk. We are quiet because we need to absorb and think about whatever we just experienced; because whatever was just done was meant to set a mood for contemplation and applause would break that mood; because we do not want to interrupt the flow of the service or disturb our neighbor.

We have lots of chances to give and receive applause in concert situations. But many musicians have told me they do not perform in church for applause. They do it for their contribution to the worship process.

Clapping is similar to laughter - a spontaneous reaction. It's not always appropriate. Let's try to be sensitive to when it's welcome, and when it might be an intrusion.

Please Don't Scatter

We've just had the sanctuary carpet professionally cleaned. Seems like a good time for a friendly reminder that we do not allow confetti, glitter, glitter on things, glitter on people, rice, flower petals, food and drink, etc. in the sanctuary. Thanks for your cooperation.

Book Fair 2006

The Library Committee and Women's Alliance are now accepting book donations for the Book Fair (March 2006). Donated items should be in saleable condition. Please, no magazines, periodicals, or outdated textbooks. We request waiting until February to donate LPs. Items may be left in the DuBois Library any time the building is open. Thank you.

The Statement's in the Mail

Operating Fund pledge statements for the first quarter (Jul. - Sep.) of the 2005-6 fiscal year were just mailed. If you have any questions about your statement, please contact the office, providing check numbers, dates, and amounts as necessary.

Overdue Book Policy Refresher
... Long Overdue!

The Library Committee can no longer call members and friends to remind them to return books that had been checked out for a month or longer. We will now provide you with an itemized letter, listing the overdue books along with the cost of replacement. We will give you a reasonable amount of time to return the books before requesting compensation. What is reasonable will be determined on a case by case basis, depending on the number of weeks (years) overdue, and the number of books overdue. The lists of overdue books are available in the library and will be updated every 4-6 weeks. Please let us know if the list contains errors.

Please, we urge you to follow the checkout procedures; use as many lines on the card as necessary to include your full name & phone number. Parents please help young children.

Thank you.

You Ought to be in Pictures

Bring your personal calendar and sign up in Adams Hall after services on Oct. 18 and 25 for a photo sitting for the new picture directory. Photography dates are Nov. 10 to 16 (except Sun., Nov. 13). You will receive a free 8" x 10" Olin Mills portrait of your choosing. Questions? Contact Jane Larson at .

Eliot Parking Lots

If you are an able-bodied individual, please consider parking on the street rather than in Eliot's parking lots for Sunday services. There are a number of members, who while not "handicapped", have difficulty walking, are bringing items into the building, or have several small children. If you need the parking space, use it; if you don't, consider another who might. Thanks.

Late Arrivals

In deference to people who are sitting in the south transept, if you arrive late or must leave during a service, please use the rear doors to the sanctuary. The south transept doors should only be used before and after services. Thank you.

Spring Forward, Fall Back

Daylight Savings Time ends on Sun., Oct. 30. Before you turn in for the night on Sat., remember to turn your clocks back one hour.

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