December 3, 2000

Preparing for Hope

Dedication of Children

Worship Leader: Rev. Dr. Marlene R. Walker

Worship Associate: Harvey Thomas

In this season of lights and miracles it is so very easy to get caught up in the excitement of the activities which are a big part of this time of year. One of the deeper messages of the season, however, is about preparation and waiting: not just for the holidays themselves but for our lives as well. How do we prepare our hearts for hope--and joy for that matter? In the Christian tradition this is the season of Advent, a season of preparation and waiting, and the season of Christmas doesn't begin until Christmas Day. So how do we enter fully into a time of waiting and preparing without jumping straight ahead to the feast? How do we keep the holiday season from taking over and leading us into a spiraling frenzy of consumerism and activity? Rev. Walker explores these questions on this first Sunday of the traditional Advent season as we also celebrate the Dedication of Children--a wonderful thing to do anytime but especially at this time of year.
 

11:45: First Forum--"Unplug the Holiday Machine: A Guide to Putting Love and Joy Back into the Season"

This short workshop may help you answer some frustrating questions about the holiday season. How can I reduce the stress of preparing for the holiday? How can I make the celebration more spiritual and less materialistic? How can I relax and enjoy the celebration? How can I help my children see that the holidays are more that just presents? If you have ever found yourself asking these and other similar questions as you thought about the holiday seasons or even of you haven't come join us as we discover ways and ideas to put the spirit of love and joy back into the season.

December 10, 2000

Music for the Soul

Participants: The Choir

Worship Leader: Rev. Nina D. Grey

Worship Associate: Joan Pederson

The soul is not a tangible thing and not easy to define. Today we think of the soul as having to do with heart, with courage, with the deepening of love's power and noble purpose, with the uplifting of spirit. Sometimes music of this season lifts us up and strengthens our capacity for compassion and peaceful intention. We'll hear the wonder of our choir's expression and a homily reflecting on these themes.
 

No First Forum

11:30:  Special Congregational Meeting on Organ Console Rebuilding

December 17, 2000

Intergenerational Service

Holiday Pageant

Spirit of the Christmas Tree

Participants: Church School Children & Youth

Come join with our children and youth in this wonderful Holiday Pageant of story and music created by UU composers and performers Joyce Poley and Frank Henning. We'll sing new and traditional songs, hear a special story about a young boy and a Christmas tree, and be visited once again by shepherds, angels, and friendly beasts.

Following the service the RE Council invites all to join in the trimming of the Christmas Tree in Hull Chapel.
 

11:45: First Forum--Social Justice Council presents the Caregivers Support Initiative.

December 24, 2000

10:00 am Intergenerational Service

Festivals of Light

Worship Leader: Rev. Nina Grey

Worship Associate: Finley C. Campbell

These days are times when more than one festival of light brightens homes and hearts. This morning we will honor Chanukah, the Solstice, Christmas, and possibly other festivals of light, with readings, music, meditation, and reflection. Come join us. If you have a reading or music which you would like to offer, call Rev. Grey a week before the service.
 

Christmas Eve Vespers 6:00 pm

Intergenerational Service

Worship Leaders: Revs. Nina Grey and Marlene Walker

Participants: Members of the Congregation, Chicago Children's Choir

Worship Associate: Rosemary Snow

Join us for our traditional Christmas Vespers for the whole family. The service features scripture, poetry, music, and candlelighting. The Chicago Children's Choir will sing, and the offering taken supports the Choir's ongoing work.

December 31, 2000

Intergenerational Service

A Kwanzaa Celebration

Coordinator: Grace Williams

In this intergenerational service, we honor the principles and rich customs of this joyful yet solemn African American cultural holiday. We celebrate to reinforce our Unitarian Universalist principles. Let us also explore how the meanings of Kwanzaa can enrich all our lives?
 

11:15: Special "Soul Food" Social Hour. Bring some food to share from your own cultural tradition.

6-10:30 pm: Neighbor's Eve Dance Palace, Main Sanctuary & Hull Chapel