"A Question of Questions" is the first part of a two-part series on how education is at the core of Unitarian Universalism. Using history and then looking to the future, the service will explore the rich and largely untapped potential of the theological implications of a faith based on questioning.

What questions are you asking?

Guest musicians this week will be the Hans York Trio. Joining homilist Peter Olandt on the chancel will be Rev. Fred Rabidoux, Worship Associate Alison Rittger, and Acolyte Antonia Porter.

Bring a friend to church this weekend and explore some questions.

Children and youth will attend the worship service in the Sanctuary from 11 to 11:15, then proceed to their classrooms to explore these topics:

• "Creating Home" is the theme for ages 5 to 7.
• "Toolbox of Faith" provides thoughtful activities for 8 to 10 year olds.
• "Neighboring Faiths" invites middle school and high school youth to learn about other faith practices and visit local churches and temples.

Infant and toddler childcare will be available starting at 9:45 am upstairs in the Religious Education wing, and the Parents Group and Youth Choir meet at 10 am.

Introduction to Buddhist Meditation class begins Monday (January 12) at 7 pm. The course is $50 for five classes, and interested people are invited to come early Monday night to register.

Thank you to Nancy Buffum for assisting with the Religious Education program for the month of January while Acting RE Director Betty Skwarek is away. Parent volunteers are especially welcome this month. Please see Nancy on Sunday or contact her at home 242-1608 or by email with your questions or offers to volunteer.

Learn how we are hard-wired to care and connect when Ellen Augustine (pictured at left) talks to the Forum on "Stories of Hope in Tumultuous Times: Practices and Principles of the New Sustainable Economy".

Ellen is an author, former Congressional candidate, and founder of four non-profit organizations. She will also explain how eco-responsibility and altruism can be profitable as well as satisfying.

"Ellen's passion for peace, justice and sustainability are matched only by her hands-on experience working to bring them about... an encounter with Ellen is unforgettable," reports the National Speakers Bureau.

Ellen's books will be available during breakfast and after her presentation.

The free program will start at 9:45. Come at 9:30 for conversation, coffee, and (for a slight charge) a light breakfast.

The Society's Board of Trustees is pleased to have some positive financial issues to consider in this time when most financial news seems so negative: What shall we do with significant funds recently received from bequests?

Sunday at 12:30, we invite all members to engage in a dialogue about these "pots of money" and how they fit into our vision for the Society. The goal is to have basic facts available, listen to suggestions and advice, help clarify any misconceptions, and remain open to the range of choices.

Four main topics will be on the agenda: the remainder from the Lois Gorham (elevator) bequest fund, the proceeds received from the Charles Wade estate and Vernon and Alice Wallace bequest, possible reconsideration of the Bylaws provision which designates unrestricted bequests to particular funds, and replenishment and use of the unrestricted reserve fund.

Board members Claire Weber and Mike McGirr will lead the discussion. There will be no votes taken or decisions made at this meeting, and everyone who cares about our shared ministry and the financial future of the Society is invited to participate.

Barbara Bourns' life will be celebrated at a memorial service in the Sanctuary on Sunday, February 8, at 2 pm. A reception will follow. Barbara's sisters, Nancy and Liz, express their appreciation for the love and support they have received from Barbara's many friends in the Congregation.

Barbara's obituary in the Chronicle.

Are you interested in learning more about oppression and promoting racial justice in our community? Do you want to meet with an intergenerational coalition from this congregation to develop anti-racist and anti-oppressive leadership skills?

The Young Adult Group is interested in hosting Groundwork trainers later this year for a day-long workshop.

Groundwork is the anti-racism training and organizing program of Unitarian Universalist youth and young adults and the training will be open to all age ranges. Groundwork trainers facilitate dialog, education, and organizing in congregations, schools, and community groups. They lead workshops, trainings, and conferences.

Let us know that you are interested in participating! E-mail the Young Adult Social Justice Coordinator Laura Gilmore or call her at (802) 233-6173.

You are invited to join the Pagan Interest Circle Full Moon Gathering Saturday (January 10) which will focus on prosperity. Gather at 7 pm in the Chapel, and you're welcome to bring food to share after the ritual if you are able.

The Pagan Circle (PICT) is a chapter of CUUPS, the Covenant of Unitarian Universalist Pagans. PICT meets monthly on the Saturday closest to the full moon.

PICT is a place where UU's may learn more about paganism, pagans may learn more about UU, and where UU pagans practice our spirituality. Respectful participants of all ages are welcome.

For information about this month's ritual, contact Joe Dellert at 242-1608. For more information about PICT contact either Carlowe Connelly or Nancy Buffum.

A baby and child dedication will be held on Sunday, February 1st during the 11 am worship service in the Sanctuary.

If you would like to be included in this beautiful ceremony, please email Nancy Evans with the age and name of your children and your contact information. Rev. Greg Stewart will follow-up with you and arrange your family's participation in the celebration.

Pillars at Ephesus from Mike McGirr

In December Mike McGirr traveled to Turkey as part of a Starr King School for the Ministry intersession course.

Students participated in experiences and study sessions focusing on:

• Mevlana Jelaluddin Rumi
• Islam in Turkey
• Intersections of Faith Practices in Turkey
• Turkish Jewish, Eastern Orthodox and Muslim
• Sufi Community Experiences
• Turkish tasawwuf (Sufism)
• Dance and Music in Spiritual Practice

December 7 through 21 were spent primarily in and near the cities of Istanbul and Konya. In addition, four travelers, including Mike, extended their stay for three days and went to Izmir and Ephesus.

MIke created a blog about his experience to help him focus his reflections and he is willing to share his observations with the community.