Programs and Activities
In keeping with our fourth UU principle, A free and responsible search for truth and meaning, the UUCSH sponsors many different affinity groups, activities and social settings. New arrivals at Sunnyhill often comment that participating in one or more of these activities is the best way to get to know current members and to feel like part of our extended family. The paragraphs that follow will give you a taste of several of these groups and activities.
If you prefer, you can read or download the complete Program Guide (PDF) for the church.
Common Interest Groups
Book Group
Our reading varies widely, from best sellers to classics, but mostly fiction. We pick our books by consensus.
Chalice Circles
Chalice Circles are ongoing groups of 8-10 people that meet bi-monthly in a facilitator's home, if possible, if not, the group may meet at Sunnyhill. The groups are to begin in September and continue thru May. These small groups are for people who want to deepen connections with others who may also be exploring the mysteries, dreams, and ideas of the human heart, mind, and soul.
Crewel Intentions
We are an intergenerational group who enjoy handwork of every and any sort. Sharing ideas and skills is a big part of the appeal and, of course, socializing.
Current Events
We are a group that welcomes all people wishing to exchange views on any and all topics arising in the news. Personal views may be stated without fear of censorship. A pollis taken at eachmeeting to see which topics are of greatest interest to the greatest number of participants.
Emerson Group
This group discusses topics of current interest, philosophy, some theology, moral/ethical subjects, religious history, and important modern thinkers. The group often chooses topics for future meetings, and members can prepare for discussion by rading a magazine or journal article emailed and posted in advnace.
First Friday Discussion Group
First Friday of every month unless that Friday is a holiday weekend, then it is on 2nd Friday It is held at the church. Watch the Drummer and Website for topics.
Meditation
The church has 2 meditation groups that meet regularly. Please join us by becoming more calm, peaceful and aware of our inner resources.
Interweave
Interweave is dedicated to the task of "weaving" threads of connection to foster understanding, acceptance & support among those of differing sexual orientations (gay, lesbian, bisexual, transgender and straight) in the Sunnyhill congregation and community. The group explores issues relating to eliminating oppression of GLBTs; develops ways of connecting with others in the congregation; works with other Interweave groups; and volunteers for community events supporting GLBT causes.
Pagan Spirituality - Spiritways, CUUPS
A vibrant, loving, and supportive group, Spiritways CUUPS is dedicated to the principles of Unitarian Universalism. We gather together with people in sympathy and accordance with our values and draw on the many ritual-based expressions of our Pagan spirituality. Spiritways is an open and welcoming group committed to all Pagan paths and to the inclusion of all rituals and traditions of those paths. Spiritways is welcoming to people of every race, gender, transgender, and sexual orientation. We assemble for rituals at Sunnyhill for the eight Earth Wheel Sabbats, one Full moon and one Dark moon rite each calendar year. Spiritways also hosts classes and workshops during Sunday Morning LifeCraft time and other special occasions.
Because rituals are attended by people of every level of exposure to Paganism, we carve out a portion of our gatherings to discuss and to share knowledge with all present. We are further committed to share our traditions and to offer insight into Pagan liturgy with members of Sunnyhill, our church. In doing this, we pledge to reclaim and reintegrate Earth-based spirituality and Paganism so that they may be restored to their rightful place of dignity among the family of religious traditions. Spiritways CUUPS always meets at Sunnyhill.
For more information visit our website: http://groups.sunnyhill.org/cuups. For inquiries or to be added to Spiritways' email list please send an email to spiritways@gmail.com
Poetry Corner
If you like poetry, please come and share some of your favorite poems and poets with us. Some of our meetings are organized by subject and others are dedicated to the work of specific poets. We have only two ironclad rules: We ready all poems aloud, and we read only good poetry. We espcially welcome poetry written by members of the group.
Quaker Worship Group
Some of these monthly UU/Quaker meetings for worship at Sunnyhill remain completely silent. On occasion a member or members will feel called by the Spirit to speak. The Quakershave faith in the "Inner Light", suggesting that there is a spark of the Divine in everyone, which explains this sense of shared ministry.
Science & Spirituality
Explore technical and scientific topics and discuss possible relationships between spirituality and evolving scientific knowledge. This group's members always propose and vote on the roster of topics for the year. Based on their vote the annual agenda is formed. Topics at the edge of science and where spitiuality and science overlap are discussed. There are also topics that concern either science or spirituality that members propose, and this area alone becomes the basis of discussion. Many of the scientific or spiritual debates become deep and often produce different views about a scientific or spiritual concept. Often, people who come to the meetings feel that they have participated in an interesting session.
Young Adults Group
Members and friends who are 18 - 35 are invited to participate in this group. In addition to discussing issues that are of interest to young adults, the group will also hold social activities. Most events will be child-friendly.
Social Activities
Downtowners Lunch Group
Work downtown? Or want to try a downtown restaurant with other Sunnyhillers? Come join us on the fourth Thursday of each month from 11:45 to 12:45. A different restaurant is chosen each month. Check the calendar for specifics.
"8 at 8" Cooperative Dinners
Each "couple" (group of two people) gets to host once providing the main course and beverages. Guests provide one dish, coordinated with the host, usually an appetizer, vegetable, salad, or dessert. These are AWESOME ways to have good food, great drinks, and fun conversation with the finest folks in the area. Sign up by contacting Dennis Sweeney from the Sunnyhill directory.
Vegetarian Dinner Group
Second Friday of the month, 7:30 pm to 9:00 PM. Both adults and children are welcome at this monthly potluck dinner at Sunnyhill. Bring a vegetarian dish for 8 to 10 people. Please RSVP by signing the sheet posted in the dining room at Sunnyhill.
Community Groups Meeting Here
The following groups meet at Sunnyhill and we are happy to share our space with them. The UUCSH does not officially sponsor or endorse these activities but many of our members participate.
Evening Yoga
Yoga has been shown to improve strength and flexibility, coordination and balance. It helps lower stress, anxiety, and blood pressure while stimulating the glandular system, boosting the immune system, and improving the quality of sleep. Come join us on Thursday evenings and reap the many benefits of yoga. Come to class with a yoga mat and comfortable clothes.
Two classes offered:
Moving Meditation: 6-7pm slow beginner class
$10/class when signing up for the session. $12/class walk-in rate.
Vinyasa Flow: 7:30-9pm moderately paced flow class
$12/class when purchasing a yoga card. Yoga card contains four
classes for $48 and is valid for ten weeks. $15/class walk-in rate.
Class is taught by Janet Tant, C.Y.T. For more information see www.janettantyoga.com
See Sunnyhill member and yogini Margaret Hamstead for a personal recommendation.
Piano Tots
The Piano Tots program is designed to inspire and nurture the aspiring musician in children aged 3.5 to 6 in preparation for formal piano instruction. Classes provide an introduction to the keyboard and allow children to experience important musical elements including steady beat, pitch, tempo, articulation, dynamics, and many more. Each lesson centers on a developmentally appropriate and meaningful theme and includes activities such as singing, active listening, creative movement, keyboard and instrumental performance, and cooperative play.
Piano Tots classes provide a sturdy musical foundation for young musicians preparing to begin formal piano instruction while piquing their interest in the world of music. For more information visit the Piano Tots website.