Adult Enrichment

Winter 2007-2008

 

Unitarian Universalist Church of Manchester

669 Union Street

Manchester, New Hampshire 03104

603-625-6854

www.uumanchester.org

 

 

Connect with Adult Enrichment on Thursdays throughout the year!

 

Come make it a family night out! On Thursdays, plan to come at 6:00, bring the kids, and enjoy a simple supper before your session.  Suggested donation for supper is $3.00 per adult, $2.00 per child between 7 and 12, free for the youngest. Child care will be available during class time, provided you let us know in advance.

 

New ideas are always welcome!  If you have an interest you would like to share with adults in the congregation, or a class you’d like to see offered, please contact Anne Boedecker at 225-6472 or ALBPHD@aol.com

 

Note: The Executive Board has asked us to suggest a donation of $3.00 per class session with a maximum of $20.00 per series to help defray heating and other building costs.  This cost is included in the amount listed for each class. Additional costs for supplies may be included in suggested contributions.

 

Upcoming and Ongoing Events

 

Experiencing Joy through Ego Dis-identification: This class will be discussion group based on Todd Lyon’s new book: The Holding Sky of Awareness.  His book is “a series of short essays and stories that describe some of the common experiences encountered during the spiritually transformative process of becoming who one truly is. The intent of this book is not only to educate and comfort but to also stimulate a shift in consciousness towards greater peace and wholeness as it is being read.” Led by Todd Lyon. Suggested donation: $20.

Thursdays at 7:00, February 7, 14, 21, and 28. The book is available for purchase for $10. from Todd, and he recommends starting it before the first class.

 

Our Chosen Faith: The book Our Chosen Faith discusses how we believe that every person has the responsibility to define his/her own spiritual beliefs and to respect the beliefs of others.  It explains our history and traditions, and the principles that unite us.  Classes consist of lively discussions of the week’s reading, and are a good opportunity to get to know some other new people. This is a great class for those new to Unitarian Universalism or those who want a refresher! Led by Phoebe Stone. Suggested donation $20.  Thursdays, February 7, 14, 21, and 28, March 6 and 13

Relaxation in Motion: This class will combine professionally-led yoga and gentle guided meditation. Melissa Ormerod, certified Kripalu Yoga Teacher, (www.yogabalance.info) will introduce gentle beginners Yoga to release tension and de-stress from the pressures of the week. Ivan Beliveau will lead the class in guided meditations. There will be time for sharing and discussion. Led by Melissa Ormerod and Ivan Beliveau. Suggested donation: $20.

Thursdays, February 21, 28, March 6, 13, 20, at 7:00 pm.

 

Duplicate Bridge: Beyond the Basics: If you could improve your memory, concentration, communication and reasoning simply by learning to play a game, would you be interested?  Bridge, the most challenging of card games, can help. This class will review the basics (from the Intro course) and go to the next level. You will learn how to succeed with good or bad cards, how to communicate with your partner by proper bidding and card play, and how the experts think.  ACBL lesson plans will be followed and materials will be provided for reference.  Led by Rick Weinstein, former president of the NH Bridge Association.  The suggested donation is $5 per class.  

Thursdays at 7:00, March 6, 13, 20, 27, and April 3, 10, 17, 24.

 

After the New Testament – Tradition and New Thoughts: There's really no hard evidence that there ever was an historical Jesus.  So what is the evidence for whatever it was that produced this powerful myth and the movement based on it?  What really happened in those first few centuries A.D.? We'll read from several sources on early Christianity and talk about it all – without the expectation that we'll arrive at consensus.  Join in for a lively discussion! Led by Rev. Mary Wellemeyer. Suggested donation: $20.

Thursdays at 7:00, March  20, 27, April 3, 10 17.

 

Spirit in Practice: Meditation, Worship, Justice-Making, and Other Spiritual Practices for UU Adults: UUCM has been chosen by the UUA to field-test this inspiring new curriculum developed by Rev. Erik Walker Wikstrom. This series of 10 workshops covers personal as well as communal practice, spiritual partnerships, mind, body and soul practices, and life and justice practices. You can come to one or all of the sessions, but please come! The UUA is counting on us! Led by Anne Boedecker and Bevan Tulk. Suggested donation $5. per class.

Thursdays at 7:00, March 27, April 3, 10, 17 and 24, and May 1, 8, 15, 22, and 29. 

 

Introduction to Digital Photography & Film. Do you want to get more use out of your digital camera or camcorder? This class will cover all phases of photography; sessions will be fluid and progress with the needs of the students. The goal is to learn how to end up with a good picture by using good techniques and making the best use of the equipment you have. From the most important accessory to a critique of our work, these five weekly session will have you shooting like a pro. Led by Jeremiah Kennelly, an expert professional photographer. Suggested donation: $25.

Thursdays at 7:00, May 1, 8, 15, 22, and 29.

 

Owning Your Religious Past:  This is an experience designed for those making the transition from another faith tradition to Unitarian Universalism.  Gain comfort with your new tradition by reflecting on the one you left, exploring the path that led you to where you are today, letting go of what is no longer needed, and claiming the good that is yours to keep.  Led by Rev. Mary Wellemeyer. Suggested donation: $20.

Thursdays at 7:00, May 1, 8, 15, 22, and 29.

 

UUCM is also sponsoring:

 

Sacred Circle Dancing the first Thursday of every month, from 7 to 9 pm. Sacred Circle Dancing is made up of new and traditional dances from around the world. It’s a way to access relaxation, joy, growth, awareness and healing. The dances are done in a circle or a line, and all dances are taught before they start, so there is no partner, special skill or background required. Barbara Stokes, who has been teaching Sacred Circle dancing for over 20 years, will lead. Suggested donation: $5. per class.

 

Contradance  the second Friday of every month, from 8 to 11:00. This traditional New England dance form is fast-paced and fun, with lively music on fiddle and keyboard, sometimes with guitar and flute added. There’s a beginner’s workshop at 7:30, and the dance begins at 8:00. The “regulars” are friendly and helpful. No partner is needed – there’s usually a good balance of men and women, sometimes a few extra men! Bring clean shoes for dancing – sneakers are fine – and a water bottle – these dances are a good workout! The cost is $7. for the evening, including lessons.

 

 

About Us

 

We are a community of seekers, walking together with the larger community of Unitarian Universalist congregations.  As a UUA member congregation, we affirm and promote:

 

1. The inherent worth and dignity of every person;

 

2. Justice, compassion, and dignity in human relations;

 

3. Acceptance of one another and encouragement to spiritual growth in our congregation;

 

4. A free and responsible search for truth and meaning;

 

5. The right of conscience and the use of the democratic process within our congregations and in society at large;

 

6. The goal of world community with peace, liberty, and justice for all; 

 

7. Respect for the interdependent web of all existence of which we are a part.

 

Come join us for fun and fellowship!