Whenever the word "dedication" is used in a spiritual context, it usually insists on some sort of change in our lives at which we must work to bring to fruition. That is why many of the faithful flee in search of a religion that requires less of them.

Hanukkah insists on dedication based on the recognition of everyday miracles -- happenings that already take place around us that require a heightened awareness and a keener focus. In embracing this dedication we become the difference that makes us better people and the world a better place.

'Tis the season to reconsider that to which we dedicate ourselves.

Staff member Remigio Flood will open a dialog between teens and adults to explore the relationship between violence in "gangsta" rap, video games, and teen behavior.

When away from the church, Remigio works with at-risk teens, including youth from Hunter’s Point. He will be joined by Unitarian Universalist and other community youth.

Families and teens are especially invited to join what promises to be a dynamic conversation!

The program will start at 9:45 in the Martin Luther King Room. Come at 9:30 for conversation, coffee, and (for a slight charge) a light breakfast.

Celebrate the holiday season with an all-ages potluck and movie! Just bring a dish to share at 6:00 pm Friday, and at 6:30 pm we'll screen The Muppet Christmas Carol.

Come see the Muppets interpret the message of hope and community written by Charles Dickens (who was, in fact, a Unitarian and is credited with bringing back many Christmas traditions).

It's a time for laughter, poignancy, and cheer! There will be a $5 per person or $7 per family suggested donation which will go to our Children's Religious Education video and DVD library fund.

Sunday Religious Education classes will explore how religions and cultures use "Nature" in their winter celebrations. Class begins at 10. If you haven't attended our program before, please call Natalie Freeburg in advance at 776-4580 so we can be sure to welcome you.

Interested in helping with the Christmas pageant? The annual 10-minute play will cast the youngest members of our community re-enacting the traditional nativity story during the Christmas Eve candlelight service. Rehearsals will be conducted this Sunday and next from 12:15 to 1, and additional adults are welcome to participate in stage set-up, costuming, etc. Please contact Natalie for more information.

from Liz Breger

A solo show of recent work by Mark Eanes opens Sunday in the church's Kings Gallery. Meet the artist, Mark Eanes, a teacher at the California College of the Arts.

Mark's paintings and charcoal-on-paper works express a mythic and religious viewpoint. Nature and Spiritual themes are his source of interest and inspiration. The show runs through January 21.

The Art Committee meets the first Tuesday of every month at 7:15 pm. If you would like to join the committee or apply for a show, please contact Jan Bernard 334-1484 or Jasper Schad (415) 677-9902 (Jasper's email).

photos by Sonnie Willis

Welcome to the newest members of the First Unitarian Universalist Society of San Francisco. These six became part of our community by signing the Membership Book last Sunday.

Pictured left to right, top to bottom are Marcia Sitcoske, Whitman Donaldson, Winnie Porter, Stefanie Wetter, Aaron Goldstein, and Dee Ziegler.

Food! Music! Art! Games! Did we mention "Food"?

Members and friends ate, partied, and shopped at the Holiday Faire after services last Sunday. It was a great afternoon to be in community... and the festivities earned over $3,000 for the Society's budget.

If you missed the collection or can do more, please use the special "UpOnTop" donation envelope that was mailed to your home, look for one in the church pew on Sunday, or mail your check to the church office marked "UpOnTop".

Do you have a photo, letter, or special memory of long-time member Charles Wade?

Charles Wade's generous bequest to the Society has been compromised by an unnotarized amendment purportedly signed four days before his death. The Society has the strongest reason to believe Charles never changed his mind about his gift. Our attorney has asked for any additional material that will confirm Charles' relationship to us.

Please contact Nancy Evans at 776-4580 or by email as soon as possible.