April 2008 JPD Packet - get the complete Packet here

REPORTS FROM DISTRICT STAFF AND LEADERSHIP

- District Executive – Rev. Dr. Richard Speck’s Page
Richard discusses his upcoming sabbatical and the financial concerns resulting from the shortfall at the Spring Conference.  He also includes a volunteer Gifts Ministry questionnaire.
- Acting Director for Lifespan Faith Development – Rev. Lyn Cox’s Page
Lyn Cox outlines the resources available to congregations experiencing a transition in Religious Education staff.  An interview with LREDA Good Offices person Jude Henzy is included.
- Coordinator of Youth Activities – Kathy Smith’s Page
Kathy talks about the nuts and bolts of youth-adult collaboration in planning program in congregations.  What is a YAC and how does it work?  Read and see!
- Director for Growth & Extension – Pat Infante’s Page
Pat lifts up the accomplishments of the congregations by posting the “Wall of Honor.”  Look for your congregation in the pages that follow!
 - Wall of Honor: Baltimore Washington Region Page 1
 - Wall of Honor: Baltimore Washington Region Page 2
 - Wall of Honor: Central and Eastern PA Region
 - Wall of Honor: Delmarva Region
 - Wall of Honor: Philadelphia Wilmington Region
- Development Director – Joan Priest’s Page
Recent Survey Measures Stewardship in JPD: The JPD recently surveyed giving within the District, and the data are now available providing some interesting statistics about Stewardship.  Of the 46 congregations which responded, ten are currently in capital campaigns, and 25 are considering a capital campaign within the next five years.  If you would like to receive a copy of the survey report or more information about Chalice Keepers, the JPD Endowment Fund for Growth, please contact me at joan.priest@rhodes-alumni.net or phone 610-869-9335.
- JPD Board Page
This month’s page is written by outgoing Board President, Elyse Reznick.

DISTRICT-SPONSORED EVENTS/NEWS

- Youth Caucus: A Meeting of Anti-Racism, Anti-Oppression Activities
First Youth Caucus at the next Journey Toward Wholeness Team meeting on May 3 at Cedar Lane UU Church, Bethesda, MD.  Please attend to move the work of Anti-Racism/Anti-Oppression forward in our congregations and thus our denomination!
- Kindling the Flame 3
The Philadelphia Wilmington Growth Team offers a third installment of “Kindling the Flame” on May 10, 2008.  This year’s theme is “An Excellent Sunday Morning Experience.”  Details to follow…
- Unitarian Universalist Leadership Team Institute
Experience the most informative and transformative residential leadership institute west of the Mississippi!  The UU Leadership Team Institute is happening again at Juniata College in Huntingdon, PA from July 28 – August 3.

OTHER EVENTS/NEWS

- Announcements
This month’s page includes an announcement for the need for construction skills for the new UU Ministry TUUL-Belt, and an important message for UUs who were members of All Souls in Washington, DC between 1946 and 1952.
- Report of the Small Group Ministry Conference
A report about the Small Group Ministry Conference that was held at the Main Line Unitarian Church on March 1, 2008.
- Health Care Symposium
How can you improve health care for all?  The Peace and Justice Committee of the BuxMont UU Fellowship presents a Health Care Symposium on April 12th from 3:30-5:30 pm.
- UUs of Southern Delaware Sensational 60’s Auction
The annual auction is one of the most entertaining, fun, festive events of the church year at UUSD!  The theme this year is the Sensational 60’s.  Auction will be held on April 19th at 6:30 pm.
- Spring Birding at the Jersey Shore!
Ninth annual Birding Bed and Breakfast – May 2, 3, & 4, 2008.  The UU Congregation of the South Jersey Shore is once again hosting guests and providing birding tours as a major fundraiser for their new building.  They will appreciate your posting this information.
- UU University 2008
UU University is an educational event just before UUA’s General Assembly for congregational leaders of all kinds.  UU University 2008 will be in Ft. Lauderdale, FL on June 24 & 25, 2008.
- Religious Educators Week at The Mountain 
July 6-11, 2008.  An inspiring week of training and much needed respite for religious educators, teachers and committee members.  The Ministry with Youth Renaissance Module will be offered, plus a concurrent program for seasoned religious educators focusing on pastoral care, conflict transformation and healthy communication.  In the beautiful Blue Ridge Mountains near Highlands, North Carolina, the Mountain Retreat and Learning Center is a spiritual setting in which the values of Unitarian Universalism are lived.  The all-inclusive cost for meals, lodging and programming is $595.00 for Adults and $230.00 for Youth.  http://www.mountaincenters.org/2008_REWeek_flyer.pdf
- The Mountain School for Congregational Leadership
July 20-26, 2008.  With over 25 years of excellence in preparing laity for leadership roles in UU congregations, the qualified and dedicated faculty of The Mountain School for Congregational Leadership provides opportunities to explore leadership styles, gain interpersonal and organizational skills, deepen spiritual life and network with people from Unitarian Universalist congregations.  Taking place in the magnificent spiritual setting of The Mountain Retreat and Learning Center near Highlands North Carolina, the all-inclusive cost for lodging, meals and programming is $750.00.  For information on the full program and application process, see http://www.mountaincenters.org/leadership.html#mscl
- Peace and Privilege:  Linking Values and Action
August 1-6, 2008.  Facilitators Dr. Ken Nafziger, Professor of Music at Eastern Mennonite University, Rev. Marti Keller, Assistant Minister at The Unitarian Universalist Congregation of Atlanta, and Rev. Glenn Johnson, Administrator for Thomas Jefferson District of the Unitarian Universalist Association will share perspectives on peace, justice, privilege and power, and how each works to transform personal privilege into action for change.   Music, conversation and programming as well as time for personal reflection and renewal all take place in the awe inspiring setting of The Mountain Retreat and Learning Center, near Highlands, North Carolina.  The $525.00 cost includes lodging, meals and programming. 
- The Mountain Retreat & Learning Centers: Young Adult Residency – A Unique Internship
Fall 2008 Session: August 11 - November 24
Spring 2009 Session: January 19 - May 4

March 2008 JPD Packet (the entire Packet)

REPORTS FROM DISTRICT STAFF AND LEADERSHIP 

- District Executive – Rev. Dr. Richard Speck’s Page
Richard discusses the upcoming 45th Spring Conference.  He announces when he will be going on sabbatical.  He urges congregations to assist the Pottstown congregation to deal with its oil spill.  He closes with inspiring words from Frank MacArtor for a Chalice Lighting.

- Acting Director for Lifespan Faith Development – Rev. Lyn Cox’s Page
Lyn Cox discusses visual symbols as tools for faith development.

- Director for Young Adult and Campus Ministry – Christopher Sims’ Page
In his March 2008 packet letter, Christopher shares with UU churches and congregations ten strategies to attract youth and young adults of color.

- Director for Growth & Extension – Pat Infante’s Page
This month, Pat offers answers to a few of your most “frequently asked questions.” She also offers a round up of growth-related events coming to our district and beyond.

- Development Director – Joan Priest’s Page
Think Spring!  Think Spring Conference Mar. 28-30: Make sure to register for the JPD Spring Conference and check out the open reception on Friday evening, March 28, at 9:30 pm in the ballroom of the Bethesda Doubletree Hotel.  We will be honoring donors to Chalice Lighters, Chalice Keepers, and Young Adult and Campus Ministry.  You will hear some great stories about our leaders and about some creative ways they found to support these programs.  For more information about Chalice Keepers, the JPD Endowment for Growth, click on Chalice Keepers on the JPD website, www.jpduua.org or please contact me at 610-869-9335 or joan.priest@rhodes-alumni.net.  

- Adjunct Staff Coordinator – Meredith Higgins’ Page
New Fiscal Year – New Board – Plan a Retreat: Most JPD congregations elect new trustees in the spring of the year.  Now is the time to begin planning and scheduling a Board Retreat to get the year off to a good start.  Meredith Higgins, JPD Adjunct Staff Coordinator, provides the steps for scheduling a facilitated retreat.

- The Liveright / Gabriel Fair Compensation and Personnel Letter
A nation-wide, Unitarian Universalist compensation survey will be coming to your congregation in mid-March.  Please respond.

- JPD Board Page
This month’s page is written by JPD Board Vice President and Co-chair of the JPD Finance and Audit Committee, Lloyd E. Wright.

DISTRICT-SPONSORED EVENTS/NEWS

- 2008 Joseph Priestley District Spring Conference Brochure
Registration is now open!!!  The 2008 JPD Spring Conference, “Voices of Justice, Hands of Change,” is will be held on March 28-30, 2008 at the Doubletree Hotel in Bethesda, MD.  See the brochure for a schedule of events and workshops that will be offered this year and for registration information.  Register by March 4th to avoid late fees!

- Click here for a scholarship application form.

- Kindling the Flame 3
The Philadelphia Wilmington Growth Team offers a third installment of “Kindling the Flame” on May 10, 2008.  This year’s theme is “An Excellent Sunday Morning Experience.”  Details to follow…

- Unitarian Universalist Leadership Team Institute
Experience the most informative and transformative residential leadership institute west of the Mississippi!  The UU Leadership Team Institute is happening again at Juniata College in Huntingdon, PA from July 28 – August 3.

OTHER EVENTS/NEWS

- Announcements
This month’s page includes the details on the Ordination of Scott Sammler-Michael, scheduled for 2pm on June 14th at the UU Fellowship of Harford County, Churchville, MD.

- Missa Gaia Earth Mass by Paul Winter & Jim Scott
Come celebrate the earth in song!  Scheduled for Saturday, March 22 at 7:30 pm at the UU Church of Silver Spring, MD.  See flier for more information or go to www.uucss.org.

- Women’s Weekend Retreat at The Mountain
For women of all ages...an opportunity to build and renew your spirit, gaining insight and strength to be your best self back in your community.  Scheduled for April 18-20, 2008 at The Mountain Retreat & Learning Center in Highlands, NC.

- Spring Birding at the Jersey Shore!
Ninth annual Birding Bed and Breakfast – May 2, 3, & 4, 2008.  The UU Congregation of the South Jersey Shore is once again hosting guests and providing birding tours as a major fundraiser for their new building.  They will appreciate your posting this information.

- UU University 2008
UU University is an educational event just before UUA’s General Assembly for congregational leaders of all kinds.  UU University 2008 will be in Ft. Lauderdale, FL on June 24 & 25, 2008.

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February 2008 JPD Packet   (the entire Packet) 

LATE ADDITIONS

- Development Director – Joan Priest’s Page

Calling all Stewards!  Many of our congregations are deeply engaged in the annual Stewardship Canvass (AKA Annual Pledge Drive), and Joan shares some ideas and tips for fun and success.  The Stewardship Canvass also presents an opportunity to ask members if they have remembered the church and the District in their wills.  Gifts and bequests will remain in the endowment in perpetuity to advance Unitarian Universalism in our own District.  For more information about Chalice Keepers, the JPD Endowment for Growth, click on Chalice Keepers on the JPD website, www.jpduua.org or please contact me at 610-869-9335 or joan.priest@rhodes-alumni.net.  

REPORTS FROM DISTRICT STAFF AND LEADERSHIP 

- District Executive – Rev. Dr. Richard Speck’s Page
Richard discusses the qualities of leadership with an article by Jeanne Bradner.

- Acting Director for Lifespan Faith Development – Rev. Lyn Cox’s Page
Rev. Lyn Cox, Acting Director for Lifespan Faith Development, offers four starting points for congregations to address Anti-Racism, Anti-Oppression, and Multiculturalism in ministries with children and their families.  A bibliography of books and websites is included.

- Coordinator for Youth Activities – Kathy Smith’s Page

- Director for Growth & Extension – Pat Infante’s Page
As Valentine’s Day nears, Pat recalls Dr. King’s message of hope and transformative love and reflects on how it continues to inspire our work.  A recap of upcoming Growth events follows.

- JPD Board Page
JPD board member and minister John Manwell writes about finding satisfaction in being a board member, and “the journey to hope.”

- UUA Trustee – Chuck Wooldridge’s Page
Renewed commitment and activity on Unitarian Universalist Association (UUA) Matters. 

DISTRICT-SPONSORED EVENTS/NEWS

- 2008 Joseph Priestley District Spring Conference Brochure
Registration is now open!!!  The 2008 JPD Spring Conference, “Voices of Justice, Hands of Change,” is will be held on March 28-30, 2008 at the Doubletree Hotel in Bethesda, MD.  See the brochure for a schedule of events and workshops that will be offered this year and for registration information.  Register by March 4th to avoid late fees!

- Anonymous Visitors Online Training
Many of you have asked for a repeat of the “Anonymous Visitor” training and an online version has been scheduled for February 13.  Here is the flier and registration information.

- Building Healthy Congregations
A series of five workshops for teams from congregations, offered in both the northern and southern parts of the JPD.  The northern series will be held at the UU Society of Mill Creek, Newark, DE on Feb. 16, March 22, April 19, May 10 and June 14.  The southern series will be held at Cedar Lane UU Church, Bethesda, MD on Feb. 16, March 15, April 19, May 17 and June 21.

- 7th Annual Music & Worship Arts Festival
Registration is open!  Click the link above for more information and for the registration form.  The 7th Annual Music & Worship Arts Festival will be held on February 23rd at the Unitarian Society of Germanton, Philadelphia, PA.

- Pathways to Membership: A Town Meeting for Congregations in the Philadelphia Wilmington Region
Here is the registration form for “Pathways to Membership,” a sharing of best practices for congregations in the Philadelphia Wilmington region, being held at the Thomas Paine UU Fellowship on Saturday, Feb. 23.

- Small Group Ministry: Building and Strengthening Programs
Scheduled for March 1, 2008 at the Main Line Unitarian Church, Devon, PA.  Whether you are considering starting Small Group Ministry or have an established program, join us for a full day of training and inspiration to further your efforts in SGM.  A special focus will be on developing skills of current facilitators.

- A Drumming Circle for Women
Drum out the doldrums!  Beat away the blahs!  The Facilitators’ Circle of the Joseph Priestley District Women and Religion and the UU Fellowship of Pottstown invite you and the women of your congregation to A Drumming Circle for Women.  Scheduled for March 8, 2008 at the UU Fellowship of Pottstown, PA.

- Teacher Development Renaissance Module
Professional Religious Educators, volunteer leaders, and seminarians are invited to register for the Teacher Development Renaissance Module, scheduled for March 5-7 at the Bishop Claggett Center in Buckeystown, MD.

- Unitarian Universalist Leadership Team Institute
Here is an informational flier on the Summer 2008 Unitarian Universalist Leadership Team Institute (also known as “UULTI”) being held at Juniata College in Huntingdon, PA from July 28 – August 3, 2008.  Last year’s institute was an amazing experience and 2008 will be even better.  Save the dates – Get it budgeted!

- JPD Youth Steering Committee Youth Empowering & Supportive Congregation: 2008 Application for the YES Award
Must be completed and received by February 14, 2008.

- Annual Journey Toward Wholeness Sermon Award
The JPD’s Journey Toward Wholeness Team once again solicits submissions for the Journey Toward Wholeness Sermon Award.  The sermon must have been delivered before a UU congregation within the JPD between March 1, 2007 and February 15, 2008.  Recipient must be available to attend both the 2008 JPD Spring Conference on March 28-30, 2008 in Bethesda, MD and the Fall Racial Justice Conference in October 2008 where he or she will deliver the prize-winning sermon in a special worship service.  The deadline for submissions is February 15th.

- Joseph Priestley District Awards
UUs are invited to nominate youth, young adults and UU congregation members of all ages for recognition awards given by the JPD.  Awards will be presented at the JPD Spring Conference.  Nominations must be received no later than February 29, 2008.

OTHER EVENTS/NEWS

- Beyond Fundraising: A Complete Guide to Congregational Stewardship
Sponsored by the Metro NY District, this workshop is scheduled for February 16th at the Community Church of New York, UU in Manhattan.  Rev. Wayne Clark, Director of Congregational Stewardship Services for the UUA, will be the speaker.

- 2008 Spring Programs at The Mountain
See the flier for a list of programs scheduled for this spring at The Mountain Retreat & Learning Center in Highlands, NC.

- UU University 2008
UU University is an educational event just before UUA’s General Assembly for congregational leaders of all kinds.  UU University 2008 will be in Ft. Lauderdale, FL on June 24 & 25, 2008.

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January 2008 Packet  (the entire Packet)

REPORTS FROM DISTRICT STAFF AND LEADERSHIP

- District Executive – Rev. Dr. Richard Speck’s Page

Richard discusses change theory and the challenges of leadership in leading change.

- Acting Director for Lifespan Faith Development – Rev. Lyn Cox’s Page

Rev. Lyn Cox highlights the practice of storytelling in worship as a way to share values and bring a community together.

- Director for Young Adult & Campus Ministry – Christopher Sims’ Page

The Director for Young Adult and Campus Ministry speaks about Soulful Sundown Worship services for young adult presence and the importance of young adult and young adult group allies in our congregations and churches this month.

- Coordinator for Youth Activities – Kathy Smith’s Page

Kathy writes about the challenges and rewards of a strong middle school program.

- Director for Growth & Extension – Pat Infante’s Page

Pat races into ’08 with big dreams and a new pair of shoes.  Followed by a recap of upcoming events that will help your congregation grow in strength and vitality.

- Development Director – Joan Priest’s Page

Estate Tithing…We Can Actually Do It!  Have you ever wished that you could tithe the Unitarian Universalist causes you care most deeply about?  Some of our most loyal members do tithe 10% annually to their congregations, but others cannot see a way to give at that Biblical level of stewardship.  Now here’s an idea that just about all of us can manage, and it can transform our churches.  By assigning 10% or more of your estate to your favorite UU charities including the JPD Endowment Fund for Growth, you can tithe, too, and leave a meaningful legacy.  The most important thing is to make sure that your will is up-to-date and accurately expresses your wishes.

- JPD Board Page

Are you looking for inspiration or ideas about your social outreach programs?  Would your congregation’s social justice efforts be even stronger if there were more people involved?  Don’t hide your light under the proverbial bushel.  Let your neighboring UU churches (and the larger community as well) know what is going on.  Look outside your church walls: there’s a whole big world looking for what your congregation has to offer.

- The Liveright/Gabriel Fair Compensation and Personnel Letter

Information about the 2008 Salary Survey will be mailed (or emailed) to each congregation in January.  Read further for more details and contact information.

DISTRICT-SPONSORED EVENTS/NEWS

- SAVE THE DATE: 2008 Joseph Priestley District Spring Conference

The 2008 JPD Spring Conference, “Voices of Justice, Hands of Change,” is scheduled for March 28-30, 2008 at the Doubletree Hotel in Bethesda, MD.  Save the date and look for more details in the coming weeks.

- JPDYSC presents WinterCon 2008

To be held on January 25-27, 2008 at Mt. Vernon Unitarian Church, Alexandria, VA.

- JPD Youth Steering Committee Youth Empowering & Supportive Congregation: 2008 Application for the YES Award

Must be completed and received by February 14, 2008.

- Anonymous Visitors Online Training

Many of you have asked for a repeat of the “Anonymous Visitor” training and an online version has been scheduled for February 13.  Here is the flier and registration information.

- Building Healthy Congregations

A series of five workshops for teams from congregations, offered in both the northern and southern parts of the JPD.  The northern series will be held at the UU Society of Mill Creek, Newark, DE on Feb. 16, March 22, April 19, May 10 and June 14.  The southern series will be held at Cedar Lane UU Church, Bethesda, MD on Feb. 16, March 15, April 19, May 17 and June 21.

- 7th Annual Music & Worship Arts Festival

Save the date!  The 7th Annual Music & Worship Arts Festival will be held on February 23rd at the Unitarian Society of Germanton, Philadelphia, PA.

- Teacher Development Renaissance Module

Professional Religious Educators, volunteer leaders, and seminarians are invited to register for the Teacher Development Renaissance Module, scheduled for March 5-7 at the Bishop Claggett Center in Buckeystown, MD.

- Annual Journey Toward Wholeness Sermon Award

The JPD’s Journey Toward Wholeness Team once again solicits submissions for the Journey Toward Wholeness Sermon Award.  The sermon must have been delivered before a UU congregation within the JPD between March 1, 2007 and February 15, 2008.  Recipient must be available to attend both the 2008 JPD Spring Conference on March 28-30, 2008 in Bethesda, MD and the Fall Racial Justice Conference in October 2008 where he or she will deliver the prize-winning sermon in a special worship service.  The deadline for submissions is February 15th.