Adult Enrichment 

As Carlene describes herself, she has lived several different lives. First, a hippie girl who attended Woodstock in 1969, then a corporate vice president, an independent consultant, then a farm worker advocate, author, composer, and singer.  Her favorite activity is telling stories that include music. Carlene will share the story of Father Sanders and grace us with her singing.

Reservations Required for Dinner Only by 3 pm on the prior Tuesday!  Email office@uunaples.org  

6:00 pm Vespers in the Sanctuary led by Rev. Tony (a brief contemplative time)
6:20 pm Dinner on the Pavilion $12 per person (free for kids)
7:00 pm Program - Come for all or part of the evening!

Upcoming Wonderful Wednesday:  November 4 – UUCGN at Fifty – Looking Back, Looking Forward

The monthly materials, provided by Soul Matters will be emailed to you. They offer options for contemplation and are a springboard for sharing at the meetings. Each group will create a covenant based on confidentiality, honoring the commitment to show up for all the meetings and to read and engage with the material provided for 2 weeks prior to each of the two meetings each month.

Then, at our meetings, we listen to each others’ reflections on the topic. It’s a gift not often offered. Being listened to by trusted companions without interruption helps us hear our own voice again. A Chalice Circle is an invitation to listen more deeply and intentionally.  No advising or “fixing”, no intellectual discussion, no chit-chat, just holding space and listening.

Most importantly, we listen to ourselves. Introspection is most often understood as solitary work, but this small group practice teaches us that going inward can be a gift given to us by others. Ironically, we hear that “still, small voice inside” best when the voices of friends speak and offer their presence in a disciplined way. Quaker teacher Parker Palmer explains: 

“So what do we do in a circle of trust? We speak our own truth; we listen receptively to the truth of others; and we offer each other the healing and empowering gifts of silence and laughter... Our purpose is not to teach anyone anything but to give the inner teacher a chance to teach us.” 

Together, these sacred practices of listening – to each other, and our deepest selves – add up to a more intentional and authentic life. It’s a journey back to connection, and to deepening in our UUCGN community. 

We hope to see many Circles this year!  We’d like to hear from you if you’d be interested in facilitating or joining a group.   

We will be in the Conference Room right after worship Sunday 10/25 and again on 11/8 for a 20-minute Q&A  and sign up for interested folks.  

Nancy Carroll & Al Curran 

Aging Wisely presents an opportunity to explore various aspects of the aging process in a welcoming, non-judgmental and supportive group that allows for deep and honest sharing. All are welcome regardless of your chronological age. You do not need to commit to coming every month. We begin with a check-in, a brief reading followed by conversation.  If you have any questions or would like to know more about this program, feel free to contact Aging Wisely facilitator Ann Fisher at annmfisher3@gmail.com 

How does the program work?  Each month there is a different theme to discuss.  We start the session as a full group then break into smaller discussion groups then reconnect together for a final wrap-up.  The entire program lasts 90 minutes, starting 30 minutes after the end of the Sunday service, and we request that you plan to remain for the duration.

Do I need to register?  Registration is very much appreciated, ideally four days in advance, i.e. by the Wednesday before, so we can line up enough facilitators to assure that we are able to break into small enough groups for the main discussion.  If you are a parent needing childcare, please indicate that when registering, and make sure you request the care at least 4 days in advance so we can secure it.

Who do I contact?  Email kathie.gorski@gmail.com with any questions and to register.  Details on meeting room and other logistics will be publicized closer to the date.