An A to Z Guide to the programs and
activities of the Unitarian Universalist Congregation of Salem
(See also the big bulletin board in the sanctuary, which has the
Congregational Calendar on one side and photographs and information
on the other).
Adult Religious Education: During the year a variety of
classes for adults are held. These cover a wide range of topics
from Unitarian Universalism, World Religions, the Bible, to being a
Unitarian Universalist parent. Our goal is to offer courses that
promote the continued intellectual and spiritual growth of our
members. The Minister and Director of Religious Education, as well
as volunteers from the congregation, are leaders and facilitators
for these classes. See the Congregational Calendar, Religious
Education Brochure and the newsletter for classes, dates and times.
Note: Evening classes generally begin at 7:00 P.M.
Annual Congregational Meeting:
We are a democratic religious organization (observing
"congregational polity") and all-important matters are voted upon by
the congregation. Our bylaws stipulate that we have an annual
congregational meeting in May to elect officers and other members of
the Board of Directors, receive annual reports from the Minister,
Director of Religious Education and board members and team leaders.
This is also the time when our annual budget is approved. Special
congregational meetings are sometimes called when we need to make
decisions more expeditiously, such as when we voted to build our
present facility on this site. These may be called by the board or
by a petition signed by ten (10) voting members of the congregation.
Annual District Meeting:
Every February the Pacific Northwest District of the Unitarian
Universalist Association holds its annual meeting somewhere in our
District. Each congregation sends its allotted number of delegates
to the business meeting to elect officers, pass budgets, adopt
policies, etc. The meeting begins on a Friday night with a glorious
banner procession and opening worship service. On Saturday, in
addition to the business meetings, a number of workshops are offered
and there are booths selling books, UU Jewelry and clothing. The
meeting closes with a Sunday morning service. Attending this
meeting is a great way to connect with our larger UU movement.
Black History Potluck:
For the past several years we have held this potluck during Black
History Month in February to promote racial harmony and
understanding. We usually plan some program after the meal. We
extend a special invitation to the members of local Black churches
and others with whom we have established friendly relations.
Board of Directors:
The board represents and acts for the Congregation in setting policy
and in the general business of the congregation. It consists of a
Chair, Vice Chair, Secretary, Treasurer, two Trustees, the Past
Chair, and three Members at Large. Members over 18 are entitled to
hold office; trustees must have been members for at least two
years. See bulletin board display.
Bring a Friend Sunday:
We don't want to "hide our light under a bushel." On such Sundays
we encourage members and friends to make a special effort to bring a
friend, acquaintance or co‑worker who you think might appreciate the
UU Way.
Budget Committee:
This
group develops the annual operating budget for congregational
approval in May and meets throughout the year to manage expenditures
and propose budget revisions when needed. The treasurer is a member
ex-officio and three other members serve staggered three-year terms.
Bylaws:
Our bylaws describe how we are structured and organized as a
religious community, stating our purpose for being and how we govern
ourselves, elect our leaders, call ministers, enter into membership,
and hold congregational meetings. Copies of our bylaws are included
in every new member packet. You may obtain a copy from the
Volunteer Workroom or by requesting a copy from the office.
Canvass Dinner:
This is one of our biggest fellowship activities of the year. Good
food and entertainment. It serves as the kickoff for our annual
Every Member Canvass, when we ask all members and friends to make
financial pledges for the coming year.
Canvass Committee:
Chair is appointed by the Board. It is this committee's
responsibility to conduct our annual Every Member Canvass,
soliciting financial contributions from all members and friends of
the congregation for the Operating Budget, as well as any Capital
Fund Campaigns (for building, etc.) that the Congregation has
approved.
Child Care:
Child Care is funded by the congregation and is available to anyone
attending one of our programs or activities. Please give at least
forty eight (48) hours notice to the Office Administrator. For some
regular activities childcare is always provided.
Child Dedication Ceremony:
Child Dedication Ceremonies usually take place during our worship
services on the Sunday closest to Christmas and on Easter Sunday,
although this may vary as the need arises. In this ceremony the
Minister and Director of Religious Education welcome babies,
children and youth into the life of our congregation and we dedicate
ourselves to do our part in nurturing, affirming and supporting them
as they grow into their fullest potential. See the Minister or
Director of Religious Education if you are interested in having your
child dedicated or would like to discuss this ceremony.
Choir:
Our Choir is open to anyone who loves singing. The choir sings
during most of our Sunday morning services as well as on Christmas
Eve. Rehearsals are usually held on Sunday mornings before our
Worship services. Contact our Choir Director, Loraine Stuart, or
any member of the choir for further information.
Christmas Potluck:
Some years the Fellowship Team has supplied a main dish and each
participant has brought a side dish, dessert, salad or beverage.
All are welcome; this is especially for folks who don't have family
or close friends in the area.
Circle Suppers:
Circle suppers are so called because they "circle around" to
different members' homes. They are potlucks that are held on four
Saturday or Sunday evenings during the church year. Contact Circle
Supper Coordinator Sharon Dearman or look for sign-up clipboard
near our bulletin board. This is a great opportunity for fellowship
and for meeting new friends.
Coffee Hour
(aka the Social Hour): One of our sacred rituals. Following every
Sunday service we have a time for fellowship and conversation. We
serve coffee (decaf & regular), as well as various teas. On special
occasions additional refreshments are served.
Coming of Age Program:
A Unitarian Universalist program for junior high youth to recognize
their transition from childhood to greater maturity. Each
participant works closely with an adult mentor of his or her choice
as well as with the Director of Religious Education and the Minister
to complete certain steps. These are designed to acquaint
participants with our religious heritage and the ideal of service to
others while enhancing personal relationships and deepening
religious understanding. For more information contact the Director
of Religious Education.
Committee on Ministry:
In accordance with our bylaws, the four members of this committee
are co‑selected by the board and the minister. The mission of this
committee is to encourage collective ministry, promote healthy
communications, resolve conflicts early and amicably, act as a
sounding board, and be a support system for the minister. See
bulletin board display.
Covenant Groups:
Small groups of no more than a dozen members meet regularly to
discuss common theological or philosophical concerns and interests.
The discussions are led by trained facilitators who meet regularly
with our minister. This is a great way to establish deeper
relationships with others. Everyone is encouraged to participate
Covenant of Good Relations:
This is an agreement collaboratively written by members that
defines our various relationships in light of our Unitarian
Universalist Principles and Purposes. Ratified at the May 2001
Annual Meeting, it calls for us to treat one another with compassion
and respect. Look for copies on congregational bulletin board and in
our directory.
Endowment Development Committee:
The function of this committee is to help put into place an
endowment fund.
Fellowship Team: The mission of the Fellowship Team is to
organize and promote various social activities and shared meals that
help build relationships among members. Primary responsibilities
include Marvelous Monday dinners (for all the teams that gather to
meet on the first Monday of the month); Coffee hour after Sunday
service; Lunch Bunch; Circle Suppers; Hiking Group (see listings
for these activities in this brochure). Also, see display on
bulletin board.
Flower Communion:
On the first Sunday of June we have our annual flower communion.
This tradition was instituted by the Reverend Norbert Capek, Czech
Unitarian Minister in Prague who died in a Nazi concentration camp.
Members are asked to bring a flower, a symbol of themselves, which
is placed in a congregational bouquet. After the service each
member takes a different flower, symbolizing the gifts each of us
receives from this community.
Fundraising Subcommittee:
A subcommittee of the Board of Trustees charged with holding various
fundraising activities. We have had service auctions, book sales,
rummage sales, concerts or "buy the house" for a play. Look for
special announcements in the order of service and the newsletter.
Guest at Your Table Boxes:
This is a program of the Unitarian Universalist Service Committee
(see listing), an associate organization of the UUA that acts to
promote human rights and social justice around the world.
Participants place the UUSC donation box on their dining table
during the winter holiday season. At each meal participants drop a
certain amount of money in the box, which symbolizes the "guest at
your table". This money is collected during a Sunday service near
the end of the holiday season and is used by the UUSC to help feed
someone in need somewhere in the world.
Hiking Group:
One of the activities sponsored by the Fellowship Team. Hike
leaders select beautiful hikes that are generally accessible to
all. Families are welcome. .
Holiday Bazaar:
Every year at the beginning of the holiday season the Women's
Alliance solicits donations of baked goods, various arts and crafts
and whatever else the good folks of the congregation can offer for
sale. It begins on Saturday and whatever is left over is sold on
Sunday morning before and after the service.
Homecoming Sunday:
Early in the fall we invite all friends and members of the
congregation and all those who have ever been connected with the
congregation to join us after the service for Gourmet Baked Potato
dinner and dessert potluck. Entertainment and other fun activities
are planned.
UU
Humanists:
Unitarian Universalism is a non-creedal religion; a number of our
members embrace a humanist philosophy that places its emphasis upon
human responsibility, power and potential. The humanist group meets
each second Sunday of the month at 7:00 P.M.
Interfaith Hospitality Network:
Our congregation, along with a number of other congregations in
Salem, is a part of this network, which feeds and shelters homeless
families. Each member congregation hosts for a week about four
times a year. Look for announcements of upcoming shelter volunteer
opportunities in the newsletter or Sunday bulletin.
Investment Management Committee:
Reports to the board and the congregation; manages assets that are
to be held longer than a few months. At least three members serve
staggered three-year terms.
Lifelines Lay Ministry:
A group of dedicated volunteers who work with the minister to
enhance the level of caring and support we give to our members, with
a special emphasis toward reaching out to those who may feel
disconnected from the life of the congregation. For further
information see the bulletin board display.
Lunch Bunch:
On the second Wednesday of every month UUs can lunch together at
different restaurants somewhere in the Salem area.
Marvelous Monday:
On the first Monday of every month, except on holidays, we gather at
6:00 P.M. to share a meal. At 7:00 P.M. monthly Team meetings are
held in various rooms. (see "Team Council" for listing of teams).
All are welcome. This is a good way to learn about and get involved
in the life of our congregation.
Master Plan:
Several years ago the congregation approved a master plan for the
future development of our building and grounds, including the
Fellowship Hall, Playground, Memorial Garden, Outdoor Wedding Area,
parking, etc.
Meditation Group:
Every Monday (except the first Monday of the month), the group
gathers at the front of the sanctuary at 7:00 P.M. for meditation
and discussion. On the first week of the month it meets on Sunday
evening. Various members, including the minister, take turns
leading the group. Usually there is a short period of meditation, a
walking meditation, another short period of meditation, tea &
cookies and discussion of a book or some pertinent topic. All are
welcome.
Membership/Newcomers Team:
The mission of the Membership Team is to provide a warm welcome to
newcomers and new members. See bulletin board display.
Mini-Orientation:
One week before our Path to Membership Class, the Membership Team
and the Minister offer a brief orientation to our religious
tradition and our congregational life. This usually takes place in
the minister's office. Coffee and tea are served, and childcare is
available.
Music Committee:
This committee is a subgroup of the Sunday Services Team. They
consult with this Team, the minister and the choir in planning music
for Sunday services.
New
Members’ Dinner:
A dinner hosted by the Membership Team. People who have recently
signed the membership book join members of this team, the minister
and other leaders of the congregation to get acquainted, learn more
about the congregation and have some fun.
New
Member Recognition Sunday:
When new members join, we like to recognize them during a Sunday
service and honor them following the service with coffee, tea and
treats. See Congregational Calendar for dates.
Newsletter:
Published every two weeks -- less often in summer -- and mailed to
members and friends, it is our main means of informing the
congregation of news and events. Several members take turns editing
the newsletter; the office administrator and volunteers handle
labels, production and mailing. Place information in the Newsletter
“mail box” in the workroom next to the church office or e-mail
editors@uusalem.org. See the current newsletter for the deadline
for submitting the next newsletter.
Nominating Committee:
This committee finds at least one nominee for each open Board
position. Nominations can also be made from the floor during the
Annual Meeting, if the members vote to do this, but candidates are
encouraged to make themselves known in advance. The Nominating
Committee also maintains a list of members who might step into other
leadership positions.
Operations Team:
The operations team, assisted by our custodian, is responsible for
the day-to-day operations of the church. The following committees
make up this team: Archives, Aesthetics, Landscape and Grounds
Maintenance, Library, Plant Operation and Maintenance. See bulletin
board display.
Our
Whole Lives
(aka O.W.L.): These are various age appropriate Religious
Educational curriculums that explore human sexuality with
sensitivity. Two volunteers, a man and a woman, must undergo
special training in order to teach this curriculum, which is offered
periodically to various age groups. Parents must consent for their
children and youth to participate, and regular attendance is
required. A unique and valuable opportunity.
Parish Poll:
Every year at the Unitarian Universalist General Assembly (see
listing), delegates forge official UUA policy by voting on General
Resolutions concerning a variety of social and political issues
selected by previous General Assemblies. Parish polls are the
meetings and conversations about these issues that take place in
local congregations between GAs to enable delegates to get a sense
of how members think and feel.
Path to Membership Class:
This class is for those who are ready to join the congregation as
well as for those who are seeking a deeper understanding of our
religious tradition, our congregation and what membership entails.
Generally follows a Sunday Service. Includes light lunch and
childcare. See Congregational Calendar for dates.
Peace Lecture at Willamette University:
An annual lecture by a nationally known activist. Our Social Action
Team helps support this.
Personnel Subcommittee:
Composed of members of the Board and the minister, who is the
supervisor of congregational staff, this subcommittee formulates job
descriptions and handles personnel matters related to staff.
Religious Education Team:
The mission of the Life Span Religious Education Team is to provide
a quality program for Life Span (i.e., all generations) Religious
Education. Within this larger framework our Director of Religious
Education program serves as the primary facilitator of this
program. Primary responsibilities are recruiting and training
teachers and organizing other volunteer help; developing curriculum
and planning classes for young and old alike; organizing and
maintaining a library and supply inventory.
Seder Dinner:
Every year during Passover, we have our own Unitarian Universalist
version of the traditional Jewish observance. Good food, fellowship
and meaningful reflection upon our spiritual past. See
Congregational Calendar for dates and watch newsletter for further
details.
Social Action Team:
The mission of the Social Action Team is to encourage and assist the
congregation to be engaged in social service and social action
endeavors that promote the ideals embodied in our Unitarian
Universalist principles. Its goals are to promote awareness of the
activities and programs of the Department of Social Justice of the
Unitarian Universalist Association and to facilitate our
participation in various social service programs such as the
Interfaith Hospitality Network, the Marion Polk Food Share, the
Jason Lee Soup Kitchen, the 25th Street Cleanup and in various
social action endeavors such as the Oregon Farm Workers Ministries
and Stand for Children.
Soup Kitchen:
Along with other congregations we support the Soup Kitchen held at
the Jason Lee Methodist Church. On our designated Sunday, UU
volunteers serve soup to the homeless men, women and children who
come every week for a hot meal. UU volunteers provide 10 to 12
gallons of soup for the meal. Children 10 years and over are
welcome to sign up to serve in the Soup Kitchen, though no more than
3 youth and 4 adults are needed for any one Sunday. If any RE youth,
individuals, or groups want to reserve a Soup Kitchen Sunday see the
sign‑up sheet in the Volunteer Information Activity area or watch
for details in the newsletter and bulletin on whom to contact. Your
help is always welcome!
Street Cleanup:
Volunteers from our congregation help keep Salem clean. A minimum
of four times a year on Saturday mornings we pick up debris and
trash along 25th Street near McNary Field (Airport). Sunday
Bulletin: The colored announcement sheet included with the
order of service gives information about upcoming events. It helps
us minimize the time taken by oral announcements during the Sunday
service. Announcements should reach the office administrator before
the Wednesday morning staff meeting.
Sunday Services Team:
The mission of the Sunday Services Team is to plan and help create
Sunday services that build community and promote awareness of our
Unitarian Universalist ideals as embodied in our Principles and
Purposes. Our primary responsibilities are to plan services when
the minister is not in the pulpit; support and advise the minister
in matters relating to worship services; support Sunday morning
speakers; train and schedule Celebrants (lay worship leaders); work
with the music committee to coordinate music; provide logistical
support and arrange set-up of the sanctuary.
Team Council:
The leaders of our "Teams" (see separate listings and bulletin board
display for Fellowship, Membership, Operations, Religious Education,
Social Action, Sunday Services, Unitarian Universalist Connections)
meet monthly to plan and exchange ideas among themselves, the Board
and the Minister. See Congregational Calendar for dates.
Thanksgiving Dinner:
Some years on Thanksgiving Day the Fellowship Team has cooked the
turkey and others brought side dishes or desserts to the church.
Other years people have been invited in the newsletter and Sunday
Bulletin to potlucks in members’ homes. All are welcome.
Unitarian Universalist Connections Team:
The mission of this team is to enhance our awareness of the
Unitarian Universalist Association (UUA), the Unitarian Universalist
Service Committee (UUSC), and our partner Unitarian Church in
Simenfalva, Romania, and to encourage participation in their various
programs and activities. This team is also responsible for
facilitating internal (among ourselves) and external (to the
surrounding community) communication to promote the programs and
activities of the congregation.
UUA
General Assembly:
In late June of every year several thousand delegates and others
from Unitarian Universalist congregations around the continent
converge to deliberate, debate on resolutions, establish policies,
vote for candidates, celebrate, worship, listen to lectures, attend
workshops, dance, play, etc., etc. Held in a different location
every year. An incredible experience. Contact the UU Connections
Team, the Board or the Minister if you want more information about
“GA.”
Women's Alliance:
An affiliate group of friends and members. Elects own officers and
has own budget. Donates generously to the life and ministry of this
congregation. Meets monthly October through May. All women are
welcome.
YRUU
(Young Religious Unitarian Universalists): Our High School
group. Meets weekly on Monday evenings for fun, discussion. Other
activities are also planned. For further details contact our
Director of Religious Education.
Ziggurat Group:
Either an oddball group of members who study ancient Babylonian
architecture and other arcane subjects or a bogus entry to justify
calling this an "A to Z Directory."
