Worship
Life
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Updated 2/6/2006
Labyrinth
Ministry | VUUS | UU Christian Fellowship
| Humanist Circle | NatureSpirit
| Buddhist Meditation | Soulful Sundown
As UUs, we believe in an individual’s right to a free and responsible
search for truth and meaning, and we encourage spiritual growth in our community.
At TJMC, there are a variety of ways to explore, discover, and share what this
means to us. Each week we offer Sunday morning services for youth and adults
in the sanctuary, and Children’s Worship in the parlor. Our religious education
program spans generations. There are also small worship groups that meet regularly
to explore a variety of paths in more depth.
This section is designed as an introduction to the myriad ways in which we approach
our journeys. These gatherings are open to all. Come, discover, question, share
– be welcome.
Labyrinth Ministry
"If one follows the path, one will arrive at the center." Our 11-circuit
canvas labyrinth is opened to all for walking monthly. The labyrinth itself
is simply a piece of  canvas
with the 11 circuit design found in Chartres Cathedral painted on it. Many find
the experience of walking the labyrinth offers an opportunity for meditation,
prayer, or contemplation. Some walk routinely as part of their spiritual discipline,
others to note special occasions or to reflect on specific questions/concerns.
And some people find simply sitting in the sacred space which is present when
we lay out the labyrinth in the Social Hall offers a time of spiritual deepening.
Members of the Labyrinth Ministry are present to answer questions and provide
assistance if needed. For information, please contact Cara Marinucci at (434)979-3049
or visit our website at www.uucharlottesville.org/labyrinth.
VUUS
The Virginia UU Student organization is our campus ministry. We welcome young
people who are new to Unitarian Universalism, as well as those who are seeking
a familiar church life while away from home. VUUS members have a strong connection
with TJMC, while acknowledging the special needs and interests of college life.
For information contact Benjamin Van Dyne at
.
UU Christian Fellowship
The TMJC UUCF is a biweekly gathering of those interested in exploring our varied
Christian heritages and today’s UU Liberal Christianity. We study the life
and teachings of Jesus, seeking understanding, clarification, and support. Programs
usually include Bible (we read the Lectionary http://divinity.lib.vanderbilt.edu/lectionary/
for the following Sunday) and other readings, prayer, meditation, and singing
hymns. Leadership rotates among the attendees. Attitudes toward Christianity
range from avowed Christians, to those who earlier rejected their childhood
religions, to those who with no previous claim to Christianity. We are all trying
to learn ways in which Liberal Christianity can help us in our spiritual and
personal journeys.
For further information, please contact Eleanor May at (434)295-7624 or David
Dawson at (434)293-7506.
Humanist Circle
The Humanist presence at TJMC provides reading materials, invites guest speakers,
and sponsors events throughout the year.
For more information, contact David Takahashi Morris at (434)973-3484 or
.
NatureSpirit
Nature Spirit welcomes diverse people of all ages and religious traditions who feel Nature
is a vital part of spirituality.  They affirm the spiritual teachings of earth-centered
and Pagan traditions which celebrate the sacred circle of life and instruct us to
live in harmony with the rhythms of Nature. For more information, visit the
website at visit our web site at www.uucharlottesville.org/naturespirit.
Buddhist Meditation
“Ordinary mind is the Way.” Clear Spring was founded by members of
TJMC to provide a place and time for Zen Buddhist meditation, teachings, and
encouragement for practice in community. Since ancient times, people have taken
up meditation resolving to realize their essential nature. People have also
taken up meditation for reasons of health and peace of mind. You need not be
Buddhist to enjoy meditation; whatever your interest, you are welcome to refresh
yourself at this clear spring. We offer weekly sitting, occasional retreats,
and guidance for practice. For more information, please contact Beth Hodson
at (434)823-7326.
Soulful Sundown
Many of us describe ourselves as “spiritual", but not "religious”. Soulful Sundown
is a chance to explore spirituality through contemporary music, dance, film
and other self-expression. It is a radically inclusive, spiritually alive and
justice-centered community. So no matter what you believe or don’t believe,
you will feel at home here. It is a place to share inspiration, ideas, and a
free search of spirituality and meaning. After the performance, there will be
refreshments and a social hour. Childcare is also available for folks with kids!
Visit the website www.uucharlottesville.org/sundown.
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