Lessons of Motherhood
April 27, 2009
Being a parent means being a good teacher and a good learner.
Honoring Pete Seeger on his 90th Birthday
April 27, 2009
Tom Lamora
In this service we explore the social justice works and music of one of the founding fathers of American political/folk music.
From the Board – Uplifting news
April 10, 2009
Yes, the pun in this headline is fully intended. There’s some exciting news from the Board this month: We believe we can afford to get a stair lift that will assist members who cannot climb the stairs to the sanctuary and Eddy Hall!
In March the Board voted to pursue the installation of a stair lift on the stairs to Eddy Hall, as well as a series of three stair lifts that would take a rider up and down the stairs to the sanctuary. (Because those stairs turn two corners, three separate lifts would be necessary.) While we have previously received quotes upwards of $100,000 for a handicapped accessible elevator, we have received estimates for 350-pound-capacity stair lifts that total only about $12,000. The Board believes that figure is one that we can handle, between previous funds raised and other funds that we believe we can raise for this worthy cause. And unlike major renovations, stair lifts can be installed in as little as a single day.
While stair lifts, which are motorized chairs attached to tracks that run up the stairs, would not make us fully compliant with Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) standards (we would need an elevator and a handicapped accessible bathroom, and likely other improvements), they would be a vast improvement for a number of members and friends who would like to join us but can’t climb our steep stairs. It would also mean that our chapel would be a more attractive venue for events like concerts, shows, community meetings and weddings, which could generate funds from rentals and help Bell Street better support our community.
For years we’ve been bemoaning our lack of handicapped accessibility and the fact that many members of our community have been unable to join us for services or events because of it. We’ve held fund-raisers and accepted donations, but were stymied by financial struggles and the overwhelming costs of an elevator or handicapped accessible bathrooms. While full handicapped accessibility is still a dream that we have for Bell Street, the Board feels that stair lifts are a very achievable and worthy improvement and we are very optimistic that Bell Street can do this soon.
Much thanks go from the Board to Rev. Josè Ballester, who has pursued estimates for the lifts, and to Joe Davis, who has also been active in our handicapped accessibility efforts, as well as everyone who has donated or organized fund-raisers for our previous efforts. While we aren’t yet at the point where we can set a time frame, we can do this soon, and the Board is very excited about being able to welcome more of the people who want to be a part of our wonderful community.
In hope and excitement,
Meredyth Waterman
President-elect
New U.U. classes scheduled
April 10, 2009
We are thrilled to see so many new faces – individuals, couples, and families – on Sunday mornings. Many of you have expressed an interest in learning more about Bell Street Chapel and Unitarian Universalism in general, and about the process of becoming members of the Religious Society of Bell Street Chapel. In order to answer your questions, the Membership and Caring Committee has scheduled New U.U. classes for Sunday, April 26 and Sunday, May 3. Previously, this program has been offered as a series of four classes, but we have condensed it into two to make it easier for those interested.
New U.U. classes are designed for people who are new to Bell Street Chapel and are considering becoming members. These classes help us get to know each other by exploring our individual spiritual journeys. We will also discuss the history of Unitarian Universalism and Bell Street Chapel and explore what it means to be a member of Bell Street. Classes begin at 11:30 a.m. and run for approximately 90 minutes. Child care will be available. A sign-up sheet will be available in Eddy Hall. If you have any questions, feel free to contact Richard Corso at (401) 383-7470 or by e-mail at richardcorso@gmail.com.
~Richard Corso
Membership Committee Chairperson
What Is Marriage For? Book Discussion Group May 4 and 11
April 10, 2009
Bell Street Chapel and Marriage Equality Rhode Island will host a two-week discussion group based on the book “What is Marriage for?: The Strange Social History of our Most Intimate Institution,” by E.J. Graff. In this book, Graff describes marriage as “a kind of Jerusalem, an archaeological site on which the present is constantly building over the past, letting history’s many layers twist and tilt into today’s walls and floors.” Indeed, the institution of marriage has changed dramatically over the centuries to reflect evolving understandings of family, money, sex, love and power. Graff traces Western marriage customs and rules of law from their emergence in ancient times to the present.
This program will allow participants to share ideas about evolving notions of marriage. The objectives of this program are:
To investigate historical beliefs and practices with regard to marriage;
To explore modern marriage customs and laws, and the belief system inherent in them;
To examine attitudes toward marriage of same-sex couples against current beliefs about the purpose of marriage; and
To develop a personal definition of marriage (both what it is and why we do it).
During the discussion sessions, participants will examine laws and customs of bygone eras to better understand underlying beliefs and assumptions. They will also explore current practices to determine the extent to which these practices reflect modern values and assumptions about marriage. Finally, they will consider how a faith community can honor each individual spirit as we “live up to the rigorous demands of love.”
The group will meet for two consecutive Mondays, May 4 and 11, from 7 p.m. to 9 p.m. Participants are asked to read “What is Marriage For?” prior to the first session. A sign-up sheet is available in Eddy Hall. The book can be purchased for $16 from Beacon Press at www.beacon.org, or through major online book retailers such as Amazon.com.
~Donald Laliberte
Food pantry at Youth Pride, Inc.
April 10, 2009
Throughout the month of April, Bell Street Chapel will be collecting nonperishable food items to support the community food pantry at Youth Pride Inc. (YPI). YPI is a nonprofit organization committed to building a strong and vocal community of lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer and questioning (LGBTQQ) youth and their allies to ensure that they are heard and accepted as members and leaders in our community. YPI offers a variety of services to LGBTQQ youth, including a drop-in center, support groups, tutoring and other activities..
YPI’s community food pantry has been in operation for nine years, and provides food to anyone in need in the greater Providence area. The food pantry distributes more than 1,300 pounds of food per week, and serves over 1,200 individuals per year. The food pantry is typically in need of the following items:
Nonperishable food items and personal hygiene items will be collected before and after Sunday worship services from April 5 through April 26. You can leave donations in the box in the main lobby in the chapel. With your support, we can help YPI feed people in need.
Reflections on membership – What does it mean to me to be a Unitarian Universalist at Bell Street Chapel?
April 10, 2009
It means many different things. I can think on my own rather than following a creed. The Seven Principles of the Unitarian Universalist Association guide me:
The inherent worth and dignity of every person;
Justice, equity and compassion in human relations;
Acceptance of one another and encouragement to spiritual growth in our congregations;
A free and responsible search for truth and meaning;
The right of conscience and the use of the democratic process within our congregations and in society at large;
The goal of world community with peace, liberty and justice for all;
Respect for the interdependent web of all existence of which we are a part.
I began attending Bell Street Chapel services in 1997 or 1998. I came when I was in the mood. Now I would have to have a reason not to attend the service.
It means many different things. I can think on my own rather than following a creed. The Seven Principles of the Unitarian Universalist Association guide me:
The inherent worth and dignity of every person;
Justice, equity and compassion in human relations;
Acceptance of one another and encouragement to spiritual growth in our congregations;
A free and responsible search for truth and meaning;
The right of conscience and the use of the democratic process within our congregations and in society at large;
The goal of world community with peace, liberty and justice for all;
Respect for the interdependent web of all existence of which we are a part.
For me the service allows me to mark my week and to center myself. It affords me a chance to meditate with others and to combine energy with them.
I pray daily and I meditate daily along with various other Eastern practices. Bell Street Chapel and its members and friends allow me to be me more and to filter out the world at large and its continuous bombardment of noise.
I am aware of the happenings around me and in the world at large but I am able to focus for a brief period of time on Sunday morning on me and becoming more whole.
I have become at times extremely involved with governance, such as when I was on the Governing Board and served on the Nominating Committee and the Committee on Ministry. At other time it has been luxurious to attend as a congregant, sans title.
Many wonderful people have contributed to my experiences here and to my growth. In interacting with people of different ages, religious traditions, genders, generations, backgrounds, and so on, I have added exponentially to who I am.
I have found it most interesting learning from several different ministers. Each has gifted to me unique prisms of awareness.
The ideas found in the principles and traditions have opened my mind to various new experiences that mean a lot in my journey towards wholeness. As a naturally caring guy, it has also enabled me to better channel some of this energy.
I hope to wake up tomorrow and many more days going forward knowing that as a Unitarian Universalist, I can manage the day and the days ahead.
Bell Street is home to me even when I am not in attendance. I am grateful to you all for your love and affection and support.
~Steve Kagan
Unitarian Universalist Assoication presidential election
April 10, 2009
The Unitarian Universalist Association (UUA) will hold elections for a new president at the UUA General Assembly in Salt Lake City, June 24-28, 2009. There are two candidates for the four-year term (which could be followed by a second four-year term): Rev. Dr. Laurel Hallman of First Unitarian Church in Dallas, Texas, and Rev. Peter Morales of Jefferson Unitarian Church in Golden, Colo.
Bell Street chapel will be able to vote in this election. We will be voting on who to support at our annual meeting on May 17 ,so it’s important that you get to know the candidates. There will be a candidates’ forum on Tuesday, April 14, at 7 p.m., at Westminster Unitarian Church, 119 Kenyon Ave, East Greenwich. This is a great opportunity to hear from the candidates and learn about their platforms. For more information, check out: http://www.uuplanet.tv/blog/2009/03/31/ UUA_President_Candidates_Forum >. You are invited to attend. Bell Street’s Governing Board has rescheduled its meeting, which would normally be that evening, so Board members can attend, and the Board would love your company.
You can check out the candidates Web sites, too www.hallmanforuuapresident.com and www.moralesforuuapresident.org.
Supporting marriage equality
April 10, 2009
As Unitarian Universalists, we covenant to affirm and promote the inherent worth and dignity of all people, as well as justice, equity and compassion in human relations. In 2005, Bell Street Chapel became one of the first religious organizations in Rhode Island to publicly support equal marriage rights for same-sex couples. We see marriage equality as an expression of our religious values. Therefore, over the years, we have advocated for marriage equality in a variety of ways.
Last month, my partner Richard Corso and I had the opportunity to put our faith into action by participating in a press conference and rally for marriage equality at the State House and were interviewed by two local radio stations. We also testified in favor of marriage equality legislation at a Senate Judiciary Committee hearing. The experience was energizing for both of us, and it has been a privilege for me to represent Bell Street Chapel on this very important justice issue.
As a Unitarian Universalist, I also believe in the transformative power of love. The love that Richard and I share has transformed us both individually and as a couple. For the past nine years, Richard and I have built a life together. We have supported each other through the good times and the difficult times, and shared each other’s joys and sorrows. Together, we have celebrated the birth of a several new nieces in the family and mourned the loss of loved ones. If something happens to one of us, such as illness or accident, we take care of it together. When something good happens, we celebrate it together.
Love has the power to transform not only individuals, but society as a whole. By putting our faith into action and working for justice, we can touch people’s hearts and change people’s minds. We must continue to speak out, as individuals and as a congregation, in favor of equal marriage rights for everyone. The Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. stated that “The arc of history is long, but it bends toward justice.” Let us all continue to work together, acting on our values and principles to make the world a more just place for all.
~Don Laliberte, President
April 2009 calendar
April 10, 2009
