Humanist Discussion Group: First Thursdays, 7:30-9:00 pm
The Humanist Discussion Group meets monthly to discuss various topics related to humanism, modern science, and modern ethics. Instead of assigned books, we will each read as much or as little as we choose about a given topic (normally online), and then we’ll meet to discuss it. Your discussion leader will be John Thompson, who led the previous Humanist Books Group for years. You can contact him at [email protected] or at 425-502-9650.
Mindfulness and Presence in Communications: Second Mondays, 7:00-8:30 pm
Being more mindful immediately improves the quality of your life, as well as the lives of those around you. Often people think you must meditate for hours a week, or have an intense practice, but not so! In this class you’ll learn some creative and immediately useful techniques to bring mindfulness into your life every day, with minimal effort. This monthly class, led by Brett Hill, is packed with information and practices gleaned from working with founders of mindful-based practices such as Hakomi, Loving Presence, and Matrix Leadership Workshops as well as years of experience as a meditation instructor.
Hindsight, Humor and Hope: Tuesdays, 12:00-2:00 pm
In 6 two-hour workshops this U.U. program invites participants to develop deeper understanding and appreciation of their elder stage of life and the path they traveled to reach it. We will meet from 12:00 to 2:00 taking time to share a lunch we bring for ourselves. Facilitated by Rev. Stephen Furrer and Milly Mullarky. Please register. No fee.
Cultural Literacy for Religion: Tuesdays, 7:00-8:30 pm
When does the Jewish Sabbath begin? Who are Vishnu and Shiva? What are Buddhism’s Four Noble Truths? What are the Five Pillars of Islam? These questions are more than an academic exercise. Religious belief has been innate to humans everywhere and in every age, from the time of the Neanderthals to today. It’s also one of the strongest motivators of human behavior and has a profound impact on all aspects of our culture. Led by Alan Carter on Tuesdays through March 26.
“Trickle Down Town” Screening: Saturday, March 2, 5:00 pm
“Trickle Down Town” is a locally produced film that features in-depth interviews with homeless people, activists working to help their homeless neighbors, and visits to homeless camps. Find out what you can do to help. We will have a vegan chili potluck at 5:00 pm, with the screening starting at 6:00 pm, followed by a Q&A with Filmmaker Tomasz Biernacki. Free and open to the public.
African-American History IS American History: What You Probably Didn’t Learn in School: Tuesdays, March 5, 19, and April 2 7:00-8:30 pm
This class is for anyone who wants to gain a fuller understanding of our nation’s past and how it affects present conditions. Classes can be attended separately but will build on each other. Each class will begin by exploring what we already know or think we know about the topic at hand. We will use short readings and roleplays, consider motives and alternatives for the various actors at key turning points. There will be ample time for comparisons between past events and current issues. Facilitators: Mike Radow, former history teacher at Mercer Island High School and Gray Pedersen, former history teacher at Lakeside School in Seattle. Why two white guys? A. We’ve both taught this material poorly and increasingly better over the years. B. White people can make a strong effort to do their “civic homework” rather than so often place the burden on people of color to explain.
6-Week Introduction to Nonviolent Communication: Thursdays, Beginning March 7, 12:00-2:00 pm
Conflict can be an extremely painful and disconnecting experience. It creates an “us and a them” a separation that harms everyone. We put on our armor and blame each other. We begin to tip toe around and avoid each other. We sacrifice our authenticity. Over time, trust and safety are lost, and with our drawbridges up, we are powerless to reach each other. When this happens, we are not doing anything with intention to harm, but we are entrenched in our positions and lack the skills to communicate with love and care, and to ask for what we need in ways that work. We use tragic strategies that harm others and ourselves and result in disconnection. How would all parts of our lives be enhanced if we had the skills to stay openhearted through conflict? What if we could foster curiosity and listen deeply to other perspectives without dropping what matters to us? Imagine being able to process your own difficult feelings and gain clarity and choice about what will really serve us while ensuring the dignity of others at the same time. What if compassion replaced shame and blame? Would this communication skillset support life being more wonderful everywhere? These skills can be learned. We can communicate in ways that bring us closer together, creating resilient, respectful, caring relationships, even when differences seem insurmountable. Join Pam Orbach for six weekly sessions of learning the basics of Compassionate communication. This is the heart of restorative work, what we practice, we become. Cost: $200 general, or $100 for East Shore Unitarian Church member.
One-Day Introduction to Restorative Justice & Circle Practice: Saturday, March 16, 9:00 am – 5:00 pm
This is a transformative methodology for community building and conflict resolution using a restorative approach. Restorative Practices support people to step into important and difficult conversations in ways that increase connection and understanding. It provides true community-based solutions, accountability, and transformative change while deepening trust. The training will focus on a methodology of talking circles and a conflict engagement based on Dominic Barter’s Restorative Circle model. Please join us. This hands-on experiential immersion in Restorative Justice, Restorative Circles, and Restorative Practices will support those seeking a paradigm shift away from “Either/Or” thinking that leads to shame and blame, and often results in punishment and disconnection. Restorative Justice is an alternative approach to accountability that brings connection and dignity for everyone. A Restorative Culture can be created in any community, organization, business or school. Even family interaction can be transformed using these practices. Here is an invitation for a journey of discovery and learning ways to promote a Restorative Culture in our homes, our workplaces, schools, organizations, spiritual centers, and in the justice system. A day of inspiration and renewal. Restorative Justice trainer Pam Orbach is excited to offer you an experience of the work that she offers that has been successful for businesses, local universities, three different school districts, religious communities and in the prison at Monroe. Please plan to bring your own lunch. Cost is: $125.
Race and Identity Class Series: Third Sundays, 9:00-11:00 am
This once-a-month four-part series will be led by ESUC Director of Lifelong Learning, Aisha Hauser. Aisha will lead participants in discussions about how race and identity shape our experiences and our understanding of social justice issues. Versions of this workshop have been presented all over the country and will now be offered here at East Shore. This class runs concurrently with Religious Education programming for children.
Installation of Eric Lane Barnes:Sunday, March 17, 11:00 a.m.
Music has always been an important part of East Shore from the very beginning. The Kechleys, father and son, established a wonderful legacy lasting until Bob retired. After a long period of Interim, the Minister, Board, and Personnel Committee fully endorse Eric Lane Barnes as the third Music Director of East Shore! We are proud to announce that Eric Lane Barnes will be officially installed as Music Director during our March 17th 11 a.m. worship service. The 11 a.m. service will be a time to welcome Eric fully into the church and to celebrate his ongoing music ministry. With special guests Robert Kechley and Eric’s colleague, and collaborator Kevin Gallagher, we will celebrate this new chapter in East Shore’s music ministry. Eric looks forward to becoming an official part of East Shore’s ministry and community, leaving the designation “interim” behind and becoming a permanent member of the staff. Please join us on this special day to honor Eric and the joy of his service to East Shore. We will have a reception during coffee hour in the North Room following the service.
Meaningful Movies on the Eastside “The Story of Fascism in Europe”: Tuesday, March 19, 7:00 pm
Travel along with Rick Steves, in “The Story of Fascism In Europe,” as he goes back in time to find out how fascism rose and fell. In this one-hour special, we’ll trace the history of fascism from its beginnings after World War I, view its horrific consequences, and be inspired by those who resisted. Along the way, we’ll visit poignant sights, and we’ll talk with Europeans whose families lived through those times. These screenings are held at at St. Margaret’s Episcopal Church, Bellevue. This event is open to the public, admission by donation (no one refused entry).
Fourth Wednesday Book Club The Undoing Project: Wednesday, March 27, 7:30-9:00 pm
Please join us to discuss The Undoing Project: A Friendship That Changed Our Minds by Michael Lewis on Wednesday, March 27, at 7:30 pm. Forty years ago, Israeli psychologists Daniel Kahneman and Amos Tversky wrote a series of breathtakingly original studies undoing our assumptions about the decision-making process. The Undoing Project is about a compelling collaboration between two men who have the dimensions of great literary figures. They became heroes in the university and on the battlefield―both had important careers in the Israeli military―and their research was deeply linked to their extraordinary life experiences. This story about the workings of the human mind is explored through the personalities of two fascinating individuals so fundamentally different from each other that they seem unlikely friends or colleagues. In the process they may well have changed, for good, mankind’s view of its own mind.
East Shore LIVE! The Half Brothers: Saturday, March 23, 7:30 pm
The Half Brothers bring their signature smart, sharp songwriting and lush three-part harmonies to East Shore Live’s concert series. A staple of Northwest musical and theatrical stages for over thirteen years, the Half Brothers write catchy, hilarious and poignant songs about the essential topics of traveling, death, and food; their new album Growing Up Weird, finds them branching out to explore themes of childhood, parenthood, and finding your place in the world. Backed with the traditional bluegrass instrumentation of banjo, mandolin and guitar, they boast a decidedly non-traditional style and repertoire. Beautifully blended voices delivering seriously sly, pointed lyrics, all wrapped in rootsy acoustic music — the Half Brothers are for music lovers of every generation! thehalfbrothers.bandcamp.com. Admission is $20/person for individual shows and is open to all ages. Wine and beer concessions available, and parking is free! Buy online at eastshorelive.com East Shore members use code “churchmember” for discounted rates!
Earth Renewal Celebration: A Concert & Call to Positive Action!: Sunday, March 31, 7:00 pm
East Shore Youth and the Climate Action Ministry present an “Earth Renewal Celebration” on Sunday March 31, at 7:00 pm in the Sanctuary at East Shore Unitarian church. This upbeat and musical celebration features songs, stories, music and multimedia celebrating our planet. The youth and musicians of East Shore will help us deepen our appreciation for the Earth as well as clarify our understanding of how we can evolve our thinking and actions to help heal Mother Nature. This event is sponsored by the Climate Action Ministry and directed by John Chmaj. Free and open to all!