All Souls 101 9/24 & 10/29
This one session course provides a basic orientation to All Souls and to the privileges and responsibilities of membership. All prospective members are encouraged to take this class before joining the church. Pre-enrollment requested. Participants can sign-up at the Newcomers’ table in the foyer or at the ARE Table in Emerson Hall.
Alzheimer’s: What is it? How can I help? 11/5
Alzheimer’s recently replaced diabetes as the 6th leading cause of death in the U.S. With more Americans suffering from Alzheimer’s, more also find themselves dealing with a friend or family member with the disease. In this one session class, a guest speaker from the Alzheimer’s Association answers your questions about Alzheimer's and offers advice on how best to support those suffering from it.
The Amazing Mark 10/22-11/19
Sid Martin leads this thought-provoking introduction to the Gospel of Mark. Participants will explore the relationship between myth and history as it is revealed in this earliest Biblical account of the life and ministry of Jesus of Nazareth. Mark will be studied with an eye towards 1st century Judaism as well as the emergence of Christianity as a distinct faith.
The Artist’s Studio
Develop your inner Van Gogh in this art techniques series for all ages and skill levels. This semester, participants will take-on glassblowing, oil painting, and gourd craft. Pre-enrollment required. Participants can sign-up at the ARE Table in Emerson Hall. A fee for materials will be collected from participants during the first class period.
· Glassblowing (9/24)—Sarah Diggdon (materials fee: $20)
· Oil Painting (10/1-10/29)—Matthew Moffett (materials fee: TBA)
· Basic Gourd Craft (11/15-11/19)—Becky Johnson (materials fee: $18.25)
Caring for Creation 10/22-11/12
Join Rudy Hermann and Anne Cross as they explore the interdependence of humanity and the rest of creation from a religious perspective. Participants will examine the theological underpinnings of environmental stewardship as found in several different faith traditions. Actions that can be taken as individuals and as a faith community will be explored.
Creativity as Spiritual Practice 10/22 - 10/29 and 11/12 - 11/19
Join Intern Minister Sarah Gettie Burks on a spiritual journey to discover the transformative power of art in our lives. In this class based loosely on The Artist’s Way by Julia Cameron, you will discover how you can use your own innate talents to live out your calling in the world.
Evening MUMs (Mostly Unitarian Moms and Dads) 9/17–ongoing
Evening MUMs is a weekly forum for working parents wishing to connect with others and discuss issues relevant to their childrearing experiences. Each meeting is a volunteer potluck, so bring something if you are able. Child care is available, but reservations for infant care must be made a day in advance. Parents of infants are also welcome to keep their children with them during the meeting.[BPC1]
1st Sunday: Parenting Discussion with Carla Clark
2nd Sunday: Fellowship with Kathy Williams
3rd Sunday: Speakers Series with Sarah Hall
4th Wednesday: Social Action with Tiffany Cross
5th Wednesday: Fellowship with Stacy Craig
For more information, please contact Sarah Hall at 744-9272
The Finer Things in Life: The Arts and History 10/1–ongoing
Dr. Jerry Talley, retired humanities professor, leads this exploration of great art throughout the ages, including painting, sculpture, architecture, literature, the theater, and allied arts.
High School Senior Coffee Hour 10/1, 11/5, and 12/3 (1st Wed. of the month)
Youth director Kate Starr facilitates this life skills class for high school seniors. Discussion topics include negotiating life at home, finding your calling, surviving college, sexual responsibility, partying, health and body image, emotional and spiritual adjustment, and financial concerns.
Holy Conversations/Town Halls?? 9/17, 10/15, 10/22, 11/19 and 12/3
Join Rev. Marlin Lavanhar for conversations about who we are, what we are called to do, and what we believe is within our capacity as a faith community. These conversations grow out of a desire for All Souls to continue to maintain its historic role in helping to shape this city and to shape the lives of individuals. With more and more people finding All Souls to be an inspiring church, we know that bold leadership and a courageous vision will be required to maintain the same quality of experience. Come be a part of these holy conversations. Each member’s input and participation is important.
The Life, Times, and Music of Leonard Cohen 9/17-10/8
Join Ann Jackman for this encounter with poet, singer, and songwriter Leonard Cohen. Participants will view the documentary I’m Your Man and explore Cohen’s music, spiritual journey, worldview, and the times that influenced them.
Make a Joyful Noise: Singing for Beginners 9/17-10/22
Ever started a hymn with gusto only to find yourself lip syncing through the second verse? Tired of having to sing sotto voce for fear that others will hear your inappropriately dotted half notes? If so, come learn the singing basics with this introductory course taught by Music Director Rick Fortner. Pre-enrollment required. To enroll, please call Rick Fortner at 743-2805, ext. 312.
Meditation 101 9/14–ongoing Rev. Victor M. Parachin leads this class whose goal is to clarify, teach and practice the art of meditation. It is designed for beginners curious about meditation as well as those with more experience. Meditation is a centuries-old technique that can help you to focus the mind more clearly and positively; to get in touch with your emotions; to relax and relieve stress; to become more compassionate; and to live a fuller, richer life.
Roots 10/1-10/15
Rev. Marlin Lavanhar and Rev. Tamara Lebak lead this encounter with the basic principles, history, and traditions of Unitarian Universalism. Roots provides an opportunity for both newcomers and old-timers to deepen their knowledge of the bold and inspiring tradition to which we belong. Pre-registration is required. To register, sign up at the Newcomer’s Table in the foyer, or contact Brian Cross, adult religious education coordinator (ph: 743-2805, ext. 503; email:arecoordinator@allsoulschurch.org.
Stitching Together 9/14–ongoing Darlene Backhaus hosts this group for quilters and needle artists of all types. Bring your projects and work in good company. Special projects will be taught from time to time.
Strong Women 10/15–10/29
Millie Arthrell leads this encounter with three strong women: Laura Ingalls Wilder, author of the Little House series; Beatrix Potter, author, artist, conservationist, and Unitarian; and Harriet Tubman, conductor of the Underground Railroad. Come be inspired by the example of their rich lives and their considerable accomplishments.
Tai Chi Chuan 10/22-11/12
Join us for this introduction to the ancient art of gentle movements known as Tai Chi Chuan. This centuries old discipline provides a valuable set of exercises that are effective in managing stress and improving over all health. Participants will learn movements designed to increase balance, health, longevity, and self defense.
Telling their Stories: Out of Chaos Came Tapestries of Beauty 9/24
Dr. Roger Harmon, former Thailand Peace Corps director and cultural anthropologist, leads this encounter with religion, culture, and art as expressed in Lao Hmong story-cloths collected from the refugee camps of Thailand. These tapestries illustrate the anguish of conflict and flight born of their makers’ refugee experience as well as the creativity and resiliency of these self-sufficient people.
Universalism: Past and Present 10/22–11/12
All are saved or many paths to the same God? Universalism is not new! Rev. Tamara Lebak leads this exploration of the history of universalism from Origen to Oklahoma.
Vision and Voice: Faithful Citizens and Health Care 9/17-10/8
Sheila Swearingen and Ros Elder lead this discussion of health care reform from a faith perspective. Participants will watch and discuss the Vision and Voice video series.
Yoga 9/14–ongoing
In this intergenerational yoga class, Stacie Pryor introduces students to conscious breath work (Pranayama), physical postures (Asana), and the six other aspects of yoga. As students learn to extend awareness to the different parts of their bodies, they begin to explore the limitless potential of the mind and the soul. This class is open to all ages and body types. Free to pledging members and donation based to non-members.