Faith for Today
A Bi-Monthly Publication

January/February 2012  

CHRIST CHURCH UNITY   VOLUME 51, ISSUE 01

FROM THE MINISTER’S HEART:

Dear New Creation in Christ,

“Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation; old things have passed away; behold, all things have become new.”  (2 Corinthians 5:17 NKJ)

“Start over again.”

When we are working with children, they can become frustrated with a project or a puzzle.
We sometimes tell them, “Start over again.”

January is a perfect time for us to take our own advice.  Beyond making New Year’s resolutions, this is a time to look at our lives and decide what we need to do to re-invent ourselves to more creatively live the lives we desire.

Here are some questions to consider:

In what area of your life do you need to start over?  What do you need to do to start over again?
What resources are already available?    What is the first thing that needs to be done?
Who will encourage and support you?  [Prayer Ministry, Prayer Chaplains, minister, friends, family, etc.]

All of my January and February Sunday lessons are designed to help you find ways to “Start Over Again.”  Come join us on Sundays and for Wednesday classes!

Joyous in the Spirit of God’s new beginning,

Blair Tabor, minister

Creating a New You - Facilitated by Rev. Blair

Wednesday Mornings, 10 AM,  Jan. 4, 11, 25, Feb. 1, 8, & 15

Looking at the Biblical creation stories gives us inspiration and guidance about how to create something new in our own lives.  Blair will be using techniques of Strategic
Planning, as well as spiritual principles to guide you in “creating a new you.”

The book recommend for this class is Mysteries of Genesis by Charles Fillmore.

Merging Spirituality and Science into Wholeness

Wednesdays, 7-8:30 PM,  January 4th through February 15th

In ancient times, there was no separation between what we knew about the universe, and what we knew about God. Over time, with advances in both scientific and spiritual practices, a separation developed between the two systems.

The class is basically an affirmation of Charles Fillmore's early metaphysics, with 100 years of scientific research providing proof of the principles. 

Love offering.  Facilitated by Robert Freck

51st Anniversary of Christ Church Unity

Sunday, January 8th

Stop by Wrigley Hall after both services for cake to celebrate the 51st anniversary of Christ Church Unity and Rev. Blair’s 24th anniversary as our minister!

Meditation Practice

Sundays, Jan. 8th and Feb. 5th
12:45 p.m. in St. Luke’s Chapel

When you meditate, you experience more of God’s wisdom and love.  These gifts of God work to make our lives better.  Please join Reverend Blair for these inspiring experiences of deep spiritual connection.  Love offering.

Sunday, January 8th -  A Concert with Jami Lula

A singer with a gift and a blessing.  A voice that will inspire your Soul to open and expand.  A songwriter who makes you feel like he’s been reading your journal.  A performer who will enchant you, uplift you, and take you on a roller coaster ride.  The musical experience will move your body, your heart, your spirit, and your mind. Take a chance, take the journey.

Jami Lula is not what he appears to be, not what he thought he was, and never what you’d expect.  Don’t be fooled by his large stature and unusual style.  His new recording is being called a journey from the question of “What’s it all about?” to the great “I AM.”  Once you’ve heard the new CD “There’s a Healin’ Goin’ On” it will leave an indelible mark on your Soul, and you’ll want to tell your friends, family, and even strangers about this musical experience.

Healing Services

Sundays, Jan. 15th and Feb. 12th
1:00 p.m. in St. Luke’s Chapel

God’s life is present and active in you.  You can open yourself to a greater experience of the love of divine life through prayer and song. Please join Reverend Blair for a deep, powerful session of amplifying God’s healing life.  Love offering.

New Member Orientation

Membership with Christ Church Unity is an opportunity to make a commitment to your spiritual growth through our church.  People find many blessings from this process.  The dates for next New Member Orientation are January 22nd, 28th & 29th.

New Member Orientation has three parts:  1: a brief meeting in St. Luke’s Chapel, first floor of the Prayer Tower on Sun., Jan. 22nd, after each service.  2: the following Sat., Jan., 28th, from 10 AM to 12 Noon, includes a tour of the church and  information on Unity's history, teachings, our church vision, and meditation.  3: Spiritual Baptism during the Sun. services on  Jan. 29th.  Prospective new members are required to come to all three parts.
Membership with Christ Church Unity is an opportunity to make a commitment to your spiritual growth through our church.  People find many blessings from this process.

Volunteer Recruitment Drive
Sunday, Jan. 22nd, in Wrigley Hall

Do your goals for 2012 include volunteer service to others?  As you set your intentions for 2012, please consider one of the many volunteer positions available at CCU. We have service opportunities on a weekly, monthly, yearly, and as-needed basis so you can choose from a variety of positions that will easily fit into your schedule.  Aline King will be in Wrigley Hall after both services with a complete listing of volunteer teams and service descriptions. Listed below are teams in need of help.  Please stop by the table in Wrigley Hall or call Rebecca in the bookstore or at 619-280-2501, ext. 111.  Thank you for your service!

Welcome Podium Team Usher/Greeter Team  Sound Board Operator
Brunch Sunday              Friendship Sunday             New Member Team
Youth Education Dept.  Office Support             Bookstore/Receptionist
Volunteer Coordinator       New Member Mentors (this is a new team!)

Gals Night Out - Monday, Jan 23rd

The gals are invited to the home of Lynne Adams who lives in La Mesa.  Please arrive at 7:00 p.m.  Lynne will have a special treasure hunt for everyone to do. Three volunteers are asked to bring refreshments.  Lynne lives at 4785 Mayapan Dr., La Mesa, 92041.

Gals Weekend Away - Feb. 10th to Feb. 12th

The gals will be  making their annual trip to Julian for a weekend away. They will stay at the Julian Meadow View Inn.  Lodge rooms have a shared bathroom. The cost will be approx. $125 for a single room and $75 for a shared room. There is a microwave and coffee maker, plus refrigerators in the lodge rooms. Food is mostly bring your own, but most go into Julian for dinner.  Bring your favorite craft, book or other activity. The Inn has many areas where you may walk and enjoy nature. If this is for you, contact Meredith Tabor at 619-280-2501, ext. 109, to reserve your spot!

REJOICE!

Ash Wednesday, Feb. 22nd, Celebration Services - 10 AM and 7 PM

Lent begins on Ash Wednesday, Feb. 22nd, this year.  Lent is a time of preparation for the resurrection experience of Easter.  The Advent theme this year is: Rejoice (Risking, Expanding, Journeying, Overcoming, Igniting, Celebrating, Expressing)

On Wednesdays, February 22-April 4th, (except Feb. 29th) Rev. Blair will help you expand the work of Spirit in your life.  With a variety of practices that are interactive and deeply evocative, you will find new connections with and expressions of Spirit.

Christ Church Unity offers Support
in the 2012 Interfaith Shelter Network

Since we did not get the dates we requested for 2012, CCU will act as a support church in this next shelter season - we will fill in as needed if other church organizers call us for assistance.  Smaller congregations often need our help.  So far the following persons have provided help in time, talent or treasure:  Mike and Sharla Barry, Audrey and Bill Pitts,  Rob and Jacquie Hardesty, Pat Stadtmiller, Butch Davis, Rebecca  and Chris Humble, Jerry Smith and Aline King.  Thank you very much for your dedicated service!!  There are many ways to help!  Call Aline at 619-280-2501, ext. 133, for more information.

Western Service Workers Association
Thanks Christ Church Unity!!

The November 2011 food drive for WSWA was very successful with contributions toward 27 turkeys, 50 pounds of beans, many canned goods, peanut butter and rice.  10 blankets were also contributed. The families and volunteers are very thankful for your support.

2012 Food Drives and School Supply Drives Continue for the 4th year

Please mark your calendars for WSWA food drives in February, May, August and November.  The August drive will include backpacks and school supplies.  The November drive will include turkeys and blankets.

WSWA (Western Service Workers Association) is an all volunteer organization in effect since 1977 to assist low wage restaurant and hotel workers and other service positions to support emergency needs in an 11 point service program. This can include emergency food, blankets and clothing. The service center also needs support for monthly medical and legal workshops.  Call Aline King, at 619-280-2501, ext. 133 with ???s.

Save the Dates: Saturday, March 3rd and Sunday, March 4th

JD Martin and Jan Garrett will be presenting a voice workshop here at Christ Church Unity. Then they will present special music at both services on March 4th. JD is an award-winning songwriter of many hit singles. He spent 20 years in Nashville and LA writing for other artists. He now writes and performs with his wife Jan Garrett. Jan is also a multi award-winning songwriter, jazz singer and master creativity coach who believes that “The chance of a lifetime is to be yourself.”  She has toured with Steve Martin, John Denver, and the Dirt Band. They wrote such songs as I Dreamed of Rain,
Already Home and No Complaints Whatsoever.

U R  A VERY NECESSARY PART OF THIS CH_ _CH!

Christenings
December 4, 2011

Nicholas Andrew Leonetti

Born January 20, 2007
to Frank and Nicole Leonetti

Eva Michelle Castro

Born April 9, 2010
to Natalie La Rosa and Fidel Castro

(Grandchildren of Rose and Mike La Rosa)

Wedding
Melody Brook McLarty and David Buckley

November 26, 2011

Memorial
Alice Hoke

Born - May 3, 1927
Passed - September 28, 2011

Alice was a member of our Arts & Crafts group.  She provided many supplies and ideas and helped create some of their special items.

Christ Church Unity Library Happenings….

A big “Thank You” to everyone that made our October booksale a success!  We made over $500.00 and paid the tithe to the new roof on Wrigley Hall (it keeps us and the books nice and dry).  A special “Thanks” to David for all his help in setting up,
tearing down and delivering the leftover books to The Book Man.

Some of the recently added books are: The Concentric Perspective by Eric Butterworth, Loving Yourself byDaphne Rose, Kingma, Linden’s Last Life by Alan Cohen, Food Cures by Joy Bauer, Twelve Golden Threads by Aliske Webb, Silence, Simplicity &
Solitude byDavid Cooper, The Little Book on Forgiving by Rick Kitzman and A Lamp in the Darkness by Jack Kornfield.  More books are on order and will be arriving soon.

We are still working on an inventory of our books and media, as well as our library patrons/book lovers, and we are releasing hundreds of cassette tapes by Rev. Stevens, Rev. Blair, Leota Poole and other speakers and artists.  They are free to new loving homes.

If you want to contact us with a recommendation or to see if what you’re looking for is on our shelves, we can be reached at cculibrary@hotmail.com  Come browse the shelves between services on Sundays - we would love to share our wealth with you.

Scrip News

This program raises money for Christ Church Unity’s general fund. Valentine’s Day is a great opportunity to use See’s scrip or take your sweetheart out to dinner at one of the many restaurants.   Scrip is just like cash that you use for everyday shopping or gas.  You may order it in advance by calling Meredith at 619-280-2501, ext. 109, or email her at meredith@unitysandiego.org

"Did you know…?”

Capital gains taxes can be avoided in a number of ways by making a gift to our church.  Either as a direct gift or through an annuity or charitable trust, there are legal, IRS-approved avenues of tax planning.  Our church has people who can advise you about what will be in the best interest of you and your family.  For more information, please ask Reverend Blair or Sheryl Ashley, our Board treasurer.

If you plan to include our church in your estate or on a deed of trust, insurance or any other vehicle, please use the full name and address of our church: Christ Church Unity, San Diego, 3770 Altadena Avenue, San Diego, California 92105.

Wish List

New Roof for Wrigley Hall

$67,000.00 - 52,180.48 = 14,819.52

3 year supply of pens for the Sanctuary

$492.67 - 165.50 = 327.17

Thank you for your support!   Remember if you feel you cannot give the total amount, partial gifts will be accumulated to reach the total.

Panama Canal Cruise in 2012

Christ Church Unity and the Southwest Unity Region are planning a 15-day cruise through the Panama Canal starting Sept. 22, 2012, from San Diego to Oct. 6, 2012, ending in Miami.  This cruise visits Mexico, Panama, Guatamala, Costa Rica and Columbia.  The first 20 travelers have already signed up!  Initial deposit is now $450.  (It is fully refundable until the final payment is made.)  Pick up a complete flyer at the scrip table in Wrigley Hall.  To reserve a cabin, call David Holt at 619-445-9193.

FROM THE PRAYER MINISTRY

Healings Abound as Prayers are Answered

Happy New Year and Happy New You!!
We Behold the Christ in You!!

We know that this year holds many blessings for you and your friends and families.

Your Prayer Ministry is delighted to share many letters of thanks which we receive weekly from our prayer partners.   “Thank you for your kind words during the sale of my home.  When we trust our lives in God’s care, our prayers are answered.”   “It was wonderfully comforting to know your prayer surrounded me.  All is well with the project that was of concern.”  “Prayers mean so much to me.  My favorite Daily Words are Divine Order, grace, gratitude, forgive, pray for others and inner peace.”  “Special thanks for the prayers during my tears over my dog who now is just fine.  I’ll never forget your calming words.”  “Within a week of praying for my son, he had five calls for employment and now has a job!”  “Thank you for all the good you are doing for people.  Will miracles never cease?!  I am getting stronger every day and I know it’s only because I have caring people around me and God.”  “After we prayed, I lost 30 pounds; no longer need blood pressure meds, have wonderful prosperity, and have wonderful friends to do things with.”  “When I call, I know God’s healing is taking place.  Now I put God in the center of my life.”  “Thank you for listening to God’s spirit and speaking to my spirit.”

We look forward to praying with you in this New Year.  Our meditations continue in St. Luke’s  Chapel each Wednesday at 11:00 a.m.  Join us for a lovely time of prayer, music and meditation.

We appreciate you gifts to support this ministry.  Every donation is treasured.

Many blessings of joy, Your Prayer Ministry

Youth & Family Ministry

By Karla Lightner - Youth & Family Ministry Director

Hello everyone,

This month marks my fourth anniversary as Youth & Family Ministry Director here at CCU, and I must admit that it has been one of the most fun and exciting years yet.  Our children and teens are some of the most amazing and talented people I have ever had the privilege to work with.  Watching them grow both physically and spiritually each year brings tears of pride to my eyes.  I am so grateful not only to be assisting them in their spiritual training, but am also grateful for the spiritual insights and lessons they teach me as well.

January begins for adults with White Stone Sunday.  As has become our tradition, children will have a White Stone Sunday of their own.  We will learn about new beginnings, using affirmations and visioning to set our own spiritual goals.  It is never too early to learn and each group, from Unitots to Y.O.U., will participate each at their own level.

If you feel you have gifts, talents, or anything interesting you would like to share, even just once with our children, please call me at 619-218-6135, or you can email me at karla@unitysandiego.org

Love & Blessings!
Karla
Youth & Family Ministry Calendar

January 7-8, 2012 – New Year Unitreat

Uniteens will learn about honoring their past, present and future at this Southwest Unity regional event.

Sunday, January 22, 2012 – Soup and Salad Bar fundraiser

Please enjoy our wonderfully delicious Potato Bar at 10:15 a.m. and 12:15 p.m. in Wrigley Hall.  Proceeds will go towards Kids Camp and Uniteen Camp.
Saturday, February 4, 2012 – Snow Tubing

Please join our Shining Unity Club on a trip to Mountain High Ski Resort in Wrightwood, CA, for a day of snow tubing, filled with fun and laughter.

Sunday, February 12, 2012 – Burrito Bar fundraiser

Please enjoy our wonderfully delicious Burrito Bar at 10:15 a.m. and 12:15 p.m. in Wrigley Hall. Proceeds will go towards Kids Camp and Uniteen Camp.

February 18-20, 2012 – Uniteen Winter Spiritual Retreat

Uniteens will study the theme:  “Many Paths to One.” This Southwest Unity regional event will be held at Whispering Pines Camp in Prescott, AZ.

Come to service early on Sundays
& experience a prayerful time of beautiful music and chants.

January Sunday Lessons

Jan. 1st  Constant Comment (White Stone Sunday)

Jan. 8th  God Is Alive, You Are Alive (Anniversary Sunday)

Jan. 15th  Your Dream Renewed

Jan. 22nd  Start Over Again

Jan. 29th  Imagine That

February Sunday Lessons

Feb. 5th  Sneaky Good

Feb. 12th  Let Love Prevail (Couples’ Renewal of Vows)

Feb. 19th  What Will You Make of It  (Annual Membership Meeting)

Feb. 26th  Risk Letting God Lead You   

March/April
Faith for Today material due
Wednesday, February 1st
January 2012

SUNDAY

Worship Celebration Service - Sanctuary - 9:00 & 11:00am
Nursery  - Classroom 3 - 9:00 & 11:00am
UniKids (ages 4-8) - Room 4 - 11:00am
UniTweens (4th & 5th Grade) - Room 4 - 11:00am
UniTeens  (6th, 7th, 8th Grade) - 3rd Floor - 11:00am
Y.O.U.  (9th-12th Grade ) - 2nd Floor - 11:00am
Library Open - 10:00am - 11:00am
A Course in Miracles - 4th Floor - 10:15am
White Stone Sunday – 1st
Friendship Sunday – Wrigley Hall – 1st
Anniversary Sunday – Wrigley Hall – 8th
Meditation Practice - St. Luke’s Chapel - 12:45pm - 8th
Jami Lula Concert - Sanctuary - 1:30pm - 8th
Brunch - Wrigley Hall - 10:15am & 12:15pm - 15th
Healing Service - St. Luke’s Chapel - 1:00pm - 15th
New Member Orientation - St. Luke’s Chapel - 10:15am & 12:15pm - 22nd

MONDAY

Office closed on Monday, January 16th in honor of M. L. King, Jr. Day

NA Group - 2nd Floor - 7:00pm
Arts & Crafts Group - 3rd Floor - 10:00am  - 9th & 23rd
Gals Night Out - Off site - 7:00pm - 23rd

TUESDAY

Planning Meeting - 3rd Floor - 7:00pm – 10th
Board Meeting - 3rd Floor - 7:00pm - 24th

WEDNESDAY

Prayer Ministry Guided Meditation - St. Luke’s Chapel - 11:00am
Creating a New You Class - 3rd Floor - 10:00 am (Jan. 4th – Feb. 15th)
Merging Spirituality & Science Class - 3rd Floor - 7:00pm (Jan. 4th - Feb. 15th)
CCU Fellowship Lunch - Wrigley Hall - 12:00pm - 11th

THURSDAY

Choir Practice - St. Luke’s Chapel - 7:00pm

FRIDAY

Youth of Unity Reunion - Wrigley Hall - 13th-15th
February 2012

SUNDAY

Worship Celebration Service - Sanctuary - 9:00 & 11:00am
Nursery  - Classroom 3 - 9:00 & 11:00am
UniKids (ages 4-8) - Room 4 - 11:00am
UniTweens (4th & 5th Grade) - Classroom 4 - 11:00am
UniTeens  (6th, 7th, 8th Grade) - 3rd Floor - 11:00am
Y.O.U.  (9th-12th Grade ) - 2nd Floor - 11:00am
Library Open - 10:00am - 11:00am
A Course in Miracles - 4th Floor - 10:15am
Friendship Sunday – Wrigley Hall – 5th
Meditation Practice - St. Luke’s Chapel - 1:00pm - 5th
Renewal of Vows - Sanctuary - 9:00am & 11:00am - 12th
Healing Service - St. Luke’s Chapel - 1:00pm - 12th
Brunch - Wrigley Hall - 10:15am & 12:15pm - 19th
Annual Meeting - Sanctuary - 1:00pm - 19th

MONDAY

Office closed on Monday, February 20th in honor of President’s Day

NA Group - 2nd Floor - 7:00pm
Arts & Crafts Group - 3rd Floor - 10:00am - 13th & 27th

TUESDAY

Planning - 3rd Floor - 7:00pm – 14th
Board Meeting - 3rd Floor - 7:00pm - 28th

WEDNESDAY

March/April 2012 Faith for Today Material due February 1st

Prayer Ministry Guided Meditation - St. Luke’s Chapel - 11:00am
Creating a New You Class - 3rd Floor - 10:00 am (through Feb. 15th)
Merging Spirituality & Science Class - 3rd Floor - 7:00pm (through Feb. 15th)
Unity Fellowship Potluck Luncheon - Wrigley Hall - 12:00pm - 8th
Faith for Today Mailing Party - 4th Floor - 9:00am - 15th
REJOICE Class - 3rd Floor - 10:00am & 7:00pm (Feb. 22nd-April 4th)
Special Mailing Party - 4th Floor - 9:00am - 29th

FRIDAY

Gals Weekend Away - Off site - 10th-12th

Please mark your calendar to attend our
Annual Meeting on Sun., 2/19, at 1:00 p.m.
You are an important part of our church family!

We wish you and your loved ones
a blessed and happy 2012!