March 3, 2021 | Announcements & Events

MARCH Learning and Worship Theme: NOTICING

Do we forget to pay attention? The learning and worship theme for March is Noticing. White teacher Geneen Roth offers that,

“We are whirling in the trance of deficiency in which we equate being alone with loneliness, restraint with deprivation, being silent with being empty. I get seduced by the promise of adding yet another ornament to the tree of myself and forget to pay attention to the heavenly invisibles.”

In the same way, we have a chance to witness and support the adoption of an Eighth Principle in Unitarian Universalism. “Since 2013, some Unitarian Universalists residing in the former Joseph Priestley District (now part of the Central East Region) have been advocating for the adoption of an 8th principle within the faith.” Adapted for all ages this way from words by Religious Educator Lauren Wyeth. This opportunity will include a workshop and worship First Sunday experience with Paula Cole Jones and the Journey Toward Wholeness Team. This is a unique opportunity for us to create a future Unitarian Universalism with greater equity and joy for justice in the future.

The Eighth Principle: Building a Culture of Inclusion
Saturday, March 6, 2:00 to 5:30 PM

How strong is our faith with and without the 8th Principle? Can the strength of Unitarian Universalism be measured in the true transformative power of our Principles? It is the seven principles of Unitarian Universalism that bring us together. Momentum is growing around the country for the inclusion of an 8th Principle. It states, “We covenant to affirm and promote: journeying toward spiritual wholeness by building a diverse multicultural Beloved Community by our actions that accountably dismantle racism and other oppressions in ourselves and our institutions.”

The 8th Principle is our proposal to be in covenant with the Beloved Community. Covenants can change a culture. They hold the potential to transform relationships, communities, and institutions. You are invited to join Paula Cole Jones on Saturday, March 6, to explore why we need an 8th Principle and why now. For an auto-reply with meeting details, email yesplease@uuoakland.org with the subject line 8TH PRINCIPLE.

UU East Bay (Not So Young) Adult Singles Group
Sunday, March 7, 4:00 to 5:00 PM

Are you a “not so young” single adult? Come join us! How will it work? The vision is to have monthly meetings and regular events, via Zoom until it is safe to meet in person. Meet other singles in the East Bay who share similar values and who are looking to expand their social network. Follow this link (Meeting ID 891 0523 6890, Passcode Love). Email Marilynn or call 703-675-8782 for more information.

UPDATED  #100DaysforFreedom Action Calls
Every Tuesday until May 2, 11:00 to 11:30 AM

Come take action with your church community and make calls to free people from ICE during the 100 day deportation moratorium. We’ll gather on Zoom to check-in, ground ourselves, make calls, and celebrate our actions. Check out this action kit for more info. For more info, contact Amy Carlson or Claudine Tong. To receive an auto-reply with meeting details, email yesplease@uuoakland.org with 100 DAYS in the subject line.

Jesus: An Introduction
Thursdays, March 11, 18, and 25, 7:30 to 8:30 PM

You are invited to join Rev. Theresa Soto and interim director of religious education Alex for a three-week conversation on the life and teachings of Jesus. Using curricula developed by the Jesus Seminar and Bishop Desmond Tutu, this is a perfect opportunity to learn more about Jesus. Whether you want a place to start, to deepen your knowledge or participate in a Lenten practice, this workshop is for everyone, and you may attend any or all sessions. All ages and belief structures are welcomed. To receive an auto-reply with a link to the meetings, email yesplease@uuoakland.org with JESUS in the subject line.