At any given moment, our possibilities are vast, yet for many of us, the dialog between our self and our imagination tends toward the monosyllabic.

We often do the same thing we did yesterday, or fit within the narrow cultural restraints, tending to follow the comfortable and habitual patterns written into our beings over time.

While our world allows us so much latitude for artistic expression, when we are pressed for time and energy, our endeavors can be reduced to the science of least effort with maximal return.

Come join in a search for truth and meaning as we explore a toroid-shaped model of possibility and morality. We will explore why we do the things we do, and ways we can more keenly sense the scope of our arena of thoughts and actions, along with the will to embrace the freedom that breadth provides.

Joining me on the Chancel will be Pastoral Care Minister Rev.Fred Rabidoux, Worship Associate John McCoy, Faith Exploration Director Betty Skwarek, and Chalice Lighter Maeve Buffum. Joining our music team for this service will be Jazz pianist Larry Chin.

Why not take a chance this week and share an invite with a friend, so they too can experience our community of liberal faith?

Come to the Sing-Along led by Carolyn Jayne on guitar and Eric Shackelford on bass. This program is open to everyone of whatever age who enjoys singing,

At 11, before Chapel, children will join their families in the Sanctuary for the beginning of the service. While there they will have the opportunity to participate in a free-style dance.

Michael Walker will lead 11:15 chapel which will be focused on the third Unitarian Universalist principle: "We affirm and promote acceptance of one another and encouragement to spiritual growth in our congregations". In children's language, "We believe that we should accept one another and keep on learning together."

The photo from Sharon Hwang Colligan above shows the practice before the Christmas Eve pageant.

Michael Abkin, Ph.D. (pictured), Director of Organizational Development and Operations of the National Peace Academy, will tell the Forum about the academy and its work for a culture of peace.

Come Sunday to find out:
. . . how a world of peace and sustainability is a practical reality that is already emerging.
. . . how the National Peace Academy is contributing to that emergence.

In his career, Mike has applied systems analysis and simulation modeling for international agricultural development and air transportation, working on projects that took him to Nigeria, Korea, Austria,Venezuela, and Afghanistan. He was project manager for the Foundation for Global Community at the 2004 Parliament of the World's Religions in Barcelona.

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

The William and Alice Hinckley Fund will accept grant applications from non-profit organizations through noon on Sunday, January 31st. Requests for funding should be submitted to the Hinckley box in the church office.

The fund was established in 1892 by Captain Hinckley to foster "religion, learning, and charity". Approximately $65,000 was distributed to organizations in 2009, and a separate spring application process awarded $30,000 in scholarships to graduate-level students.

Hinckley provides grants only to IRS-certified non-profit organizations. Requests for all First Unitarian Universalist Society groups are submitted and prioritized by the Senior Minister.

The story focuses on the Preacher's Sons documentary about the family which was created by Unitarian Universalists Mark Nealey and C Reed. In addition to telling about the Stewarts, the UU World interviews Reed and includes the story of the movie making.

The Congregation celebrated Christmas Eve together in a candle-lit Sanctuary filled with families and friends. Unitarian Universalists united with ministers and members of the Sunday Afternoon Fellowship to hear stories, sing carols, and join in community.

Thank you to photographers Meg Whitaker-Greene (photo above) and Sonnie Willis (photo below) for capturing the magic of the night.