Spring is springing in Sedona, and it’s time to catch up a bit on what has been shared during coffee hour for the past several Sundays.
Rev. Robin’s service on Sun Feb 28 got people thinking about planting their own seeds (literally) and discussing a variety of gardening tips. Many shared their excitement about getting back to their favorite hiking spots (Jail trail, Cliff Rose trail, Bubbling Ponds, Jordan trail and Mezcal trail, to name a few) and hitting the local farmers’ markets.
The service by guest speaker Alex Kapitan on Sun Mar 7 inspired many to think about ways that we can try to be more inclusive and welcoming. Carolyn shared some additional comments about the Transformational Hearts workshop series, now entering its final week. It was a lively conversation, to say the least, that generated some ideas about different types of discussion groups we might consider going forward.
During announcements, Penny gave an update regarding the Hope House project. They have successfully amassed the funds to allow construction of the new home to begin, and Penny was able to share a few details. A drive to collect donations for needed household goods and supplies will be planned for this fall, perhaps as early as September. Before then, you may want to start collecting new and gently-used items and keep them until they can be dropped off.
Kathy reminded us that anyone interested in serving our Fellowship, either on the SUUF Board, Leadership Development Committee, or the Committee on Ministries, is requested to send her an email to let her know (kathykinsedona@gmail.com). There are several positions that are open for the coming year, and the election will be held as part of our Annual Meeting later this spring.
Another thought-provoking sermon by Rev. Robin on Sun Mar 14 led to some interesting conversations about dealing with “difficult people” in a number of situations, along with some book recommendations: Frozen Beliefs and Blessed Unrest, that came to mind during the discussion. Of course, it was also Pi Day and Daylight Savings Time went into effect everywhere (else) across the country.
At least a few Joys or Concerns are shared every Sunday, and Sarah cheered us this week with the news that one year later, Eleanor is completing her PT, enjoying her new cat, and looks forward to being able to drive again. Ron & Suzanne were thrilled to watch on Zoom as their daughter defended her doctoral dissertation. Finally, Happy (and rather belated) Birthday wishes to David, Diane’s dad, who celebrated his 100th birthday in January!
Several items from today’s Coffee Hour on Sun Mar 21, following the service by Rev. Anthony:
The deadline for updates for the April Newsletter is next Monday, March 29. Be sure to submit any updates to Michelle Snyder by then.
A news item has just been posted on our website about the 8-week course on “The Path to Happiness” that Paul Friedman will be facilitating for our SUUF Community. It begins on Friday, April 9, and enrollment is limited to a total of 12 attendees, so sign up quickly.
The Sedona Community Center is recruiting volunteers for “meals on wheels” delivery with training provided. The process requires a security check, which means it may take several weeks before you actually “hit the road”. If you’re able to commit to volunteer for at least one year, please click here to learn more and to sign up.
Similarly, Verde Valley Caregivers is another organization that provides assistance to seniors, including transportation to appointments. Learn more by clicking here to visit their website.
The University Women of Sedona will hold their next monthly meeting on Mon April 5 at 10 am. The meeting will feature award-winning author and teacher Pegie Stark, who will present “The Power of Color – Understanding its Moods and Meaning”. Several women in our SUUF community are members of UWS; and their President and SUUF member Elizabeth Herrell welcomes all who wish to attend. Here’s the Zoom link to use with Meeting ID: 879 7844 5001 and Passcode: 2021 if requested
Several people have enjoyed being part of the Democrats of the Red Rocks Film Club, watching the film of the month in the comfort of their own home and then joining with others to discuss it on Zoom. Click here for a link to DORR’s events page to get more information on this and other opportunities.
We’ve learned that the Sedona Visual Artists’ Coalition will again hold their Spring “Open Studios” event the weekend of April 23-25 from 10 am – 5 pm daily. Watch for a separate posting on our website and in our newsletter with more information about the event. Our own Ruth Waddell plans to participate, and would appreciate having volunteers who can provide some on-site assistance at their studio during the event.
Several members of our SUUF community will participate in the Sedona Heritage Museum’s “Voices from the Grave – Spring Spirits Rising” open-air cemetery tour on April 30 and May 1 at the Schuerman Red Rock Cemetery on Red Rock Loop Road. Click here to learn more details and to purchase tickets, which are likely to sell out quickly.
We appreciate gathering with many of our “regulars” each Sunday and always enjoy seeing new faces (and hearing their voices, too). It’s reassuring to consider that we’ve been able to get through this long year of uncertainty together, that many continue to be able to receive the vaccine to further protect themselves and the community, and that we can expect to be back together in person again before too long.