1 00:00:00,000 --> 00:00:07,470 2 00:00:07,470 --> 00:00:10,240 Jim Key: I call to order the 53rd General 3 00:00:10,240 --> 00:00:13,815 Assembly of the Unitarian Universalist Association. 4 00:00:13,815 --> 00:00:21,760 [APPLAUSE] 5 00:00:21,760 --> 00:00:23,750 Jim Key: I've been tweeting selfies. 6 00:00:23,750 --> 00:00:26,260 I would suggest you do the same. 7 00:00:26,260 --> 00:00:29,310 We're going to talk about that a little later. 8 00:00:29,310 --> 00:00:36,290 Are you ready for a great week in Providence? 9 00:00:36,290 --> 00:00:43,850 Are you ready for yet more inspiring music and worship? 10 00:00:43,850 --> 00:00:49,320 Are you ready to sample some of the 156 workshops 11 00:00:49,320 --> 00:00:54,560 to inspire you and challenge you? 12 00:00:54,560 --> 00:00:57,810 And are you ready to participate in the Democratic process 13 00:00:57,810 --> 00:01:07,310 as our association conducts its business? 14 00:01:07,310 --> 00:01:11,350 Do we have any governance wonks in the assembly besides me? 15 00:01:11,350 --> 00:01:13,620 Oh good. 16 00:01:13,620 --> 00:01:17,010 So if you have answered yes to any of these questions, 17 00:01:17,010 --> 00:01:20,730 you're in the right place at the right time. 18 00:01:20,730 --> 00:01:24,150 My name is Jim Key, and this is my first General 19 00:01:24,150 --> 00:01:30,890 Assembly as your Moderator. 20 00:01:30,890 --> 00:01:34,890 Right If this is your first General Assembly, 21 00:01:34,890 --> 00:01:36,180 just raise your hand and wave. 22 00:01:36,180 --> 00:01:37,400 How many people? 23 00:01:37,400 --> 00:01:40,356 Typical, OK. 24 00:01:40,356 --> 00:01:42,480 Hands down. 25 00:01:42,480 --> 00:01:48,830 If you have been here 10 or more, GAs, a little thinner, 26 00:01:48,830 --> 00:01:51,410 good. 27 00:01:51,410 --> 00:01:59,220 How about 20 or more? 28 00:01:59,220 --> 00:02:00,800 I have it on good authority there's 29 00:02:00,800 --> 00:02:04,410 at least one couple in the hall that have been here-- 30 00:02:04,410 --> 00:02:07,860 this is their 30th General Assembly. 31 00:02:07,860 --> 00:02:11,800 Where would they be? 32 00:02:11,800 --> 00:02:14,020 Where would they be? 33 00:02:14,020 --> 00:02:17,126 There they are, back there. 34 00:02:17,126 --> 00:02:27,870 [APPLAUSE] 35 00:02:27,870 --> 00:02:32,440 Jim Key: 30 GAs, and that's the best seat you could get? 36 00:02:32,440 --> 00:02:35,300 Talk to me next year. 37 00:02:35,300 --> 00:02:38,060 Well, whether this is your first or your 53rd, 38 00:02:38,060 --> 00:02:40,070 you're going to have a great four days. 39 00:02:40,070 --> 00:02:43,370 And it may be different than what you've experienced before. 40 00:02:43,370 --> 00:02:46,680 The board, the staff, GA planning committee, 41 00:02:46,680 --> 00:02:49,390 have taken notice of comments and evaluations 42 00:02:49,390 --> 00:02:51,820 from participants from previous GAs, 43 00:02:51,820 --> 00:02:54,300 so UGA junkies will have some changes 44 00:02:54,300 --> 00:02:56,270 to go through this week. 45 00:02:56,270 --> 00:03:00,300 In worship, in witness, and in our general sessions-- 46 00:03:00,300 --> 00:03:04,160 the general sessions formerly known as plenary. 47 00:03:04,160 --> 00:03:08,120 We have 11 fewer hours this year in general sessions 48 00:03:08,120 --> 00:03:09,438 than last year. 49 00:03:09,438 --> 00:03:14,420 [APPLAUSE] 50 00:03:14,420 --> 00:03:18,250 Jim Key: And this allowed us to offer 48 more workshop 51 00:03:18,250 --> 00:03:22,380 opportunities then last. 52 00:03:22,380 --> 00:03:25,850 That's what you asked for and we heard you. 53 00:03:25,850 --> 00:03:27,980 We've asked our presenters to take less time 54 00:03:27,980 --> 00:03:31,320 with their reports, and to link their remarks to this year's 55 00:03:31,320 --> 00:03:34,280 theme of Love Reaches Out. 56 00:03:34,280 --> 00:03:37,810 We've also asked them to connect their presentations 57 00:03:37,810 --> 00:03:41,780 to the Association's Global Ends or Shared Vision, which 58 00:03:41,780 --> 00:03:44,490 hundreds of you participated in crafting 59 00:03:44,490 --> 00:03:46,510 over the past few years. 60 00:03:46,510 --> 00:03:49,880 And you can find them on page 100 in your program book. 61 00:03:49,880 --> 00:03:52,070 And I encourage you to become familiar with them 62 00:03:52,070 --> 00:03:54,250 as the week goes out. 63 00:03:54,250 --> 00:03:57,140 They are our North Star guiding your Association 64 00:03:57,140 --> 00:03:58,924 into the future. 65 00:03:58,924 --> 00:04:00,590 Additionally, we've asked our presenters 66 00:04:00,590 --> 00:04:03,020 to challenge us to think about the issues facing 67 00:04:03,020 --> 00:04:06,630 this free and liberal religion in this increasingly 68 00:04:06,630 --> 00:04:09,580 secular world, and how we might learn 69 00:04:09,580 --> 00:04:13,710 from those new revelations we expect to hear about this week. 70 00:04:13,710 --> 00:04:16,610 And we hope that you enjoy the GA talks 71 00:04:16,610 --> 00:04:22,210 that are sprinkled throughout the general sessions like TED 72 00:04:22,210 --> 00:04:25,060 talks, the Technology, Education, 73 00:04:25,060 --> 00:04:27,500 Design talks that many of you are familiar with. 74 00:04:27,500 --> 00:04:32,320 We hope they introduce ideas worth spreading. 75 00:04:32,320 --> 00:04:33,900 So before we start the Banner Parade, 76 00:04:33,900 --> 00:04:36,190 I want to call on the Vice Moderator of your UUA 77 00:04:36,190 --> 00:04:39,846 Board of Trustees, Donna Harrison. 78 00:04:39,846 --> 00:04:47,489 [APPLAUSE] 79 00:04:47,489 --> 00:04:48,780 Donna Harrison: Thank you, Jim. 80 00:04:48,780 --> 00:04:52,720 So Jim has asked me to do one of the most fun things. 81 00:04:52,720 --> 00:04:55,990 One of the most rewarding experiences each year 82 00:04:55,990 --> 00:05:00,190 at General Assembly is welcoming new congregations 83 00:05:00,190 --> 00:05:03,650 into our UUA community. 84 00:05:03,650 --> 00:05:07,330 And starting a new congregation is an extraordinary piece 85 00:05:07,330 --> 00:05:11,590 of work, an astounding act of faith. 86 00:05:11,590 --> 00:05:17,220 It takes vision, courage, leadership, patience, 87 00:05:17,220 --> 00:05:25,080 bureaucratic brilliance, jumping over hurdles and through hoops, 88 00:05:25,080 --> 00:05:28,730 but most of all, it takes love. 89 00:05:28,730 --> 00:05:31,360 And the leaders that you will meet in a moment 90 00:05:31,360 --> 00:05:36,550 have given all of this and more to their dream of the Unitarian 91 00:05:36,550 --> 00:05:40,510 Universalist congregation serving their community. 92 00:05:40,510 --> 00:05:44,640 And tonight we will welcome our newest congregation, Original 93 00:05:44,640 --> 00:05:47,190 Blessing, into our Association. 94 00:05:47,190 --> 00:05:48,764 And this brings-- 95 00:05:48,764 --> 00:05:59,241 [APPLAUSE] 96 00:05:59,241 --> 00:06:01,240 Donna Harrison: And this brings the total number 97 00:06:01,240 --> 00:06:06,720 of congregations in our Association to 1,048. 98 00:06:06,720 --> 00:06:13,850 [APPLAUSE] 99 00:06:13,850 --> 00:06:16,630 Donna Harrison: So I would like Moderator Key and President 100 00:06:16,630 --> 00:06:20,750 Morales to join me as we welcome our newest congregation. 101 00:06:20,750 --> 00:06:24,410 And most congregations come into being because local UUs work 102 00:06:24,410 --> 00:06:27,510 closely with district staff and district presidents. 103 00:06:27,510 --> 00:06:30,620 So it is my pleasure tonight to ask the District President 104 00:06:30,620 --> 00:06:33,960 from the Metro New York District, Mia Morse, 105 00:06:33,960 --> 00:06:38,830 to introduce you to your new congregation. 106 00:06:38,830 --> 00:06:42,350 And as Mia and the representatives from Original 107 00:06:42,350 --> 00:06:45,980 Blessing join us here, let's roll a video 108 00:06:45,980 --> 00:06:49,930 that we have about Original Blessing, our newest member 109 00:06:49,930 --> 00:06:51,716 congregation. 110 00:06:51,716 --> 00:06:56,250 Narrator: At Original Blessing, our mission 111 00:06:56,250 --> 00:07:00,740 is to transform the lives of the 400,000 people 112 00:07:00,740 --> 00:07:04,385 who live in North Brooklyn and Western Queens. 113 00:07:04,385 --> 00:07:13,810 [MUSIC PLAYING] 114 00:07:13,810 --> 00:07:15,560 Speaker 1: think that there is a need 115 00:07:15,560 --> 00:07:17,972 or want for a spiritually progressive voice. 116 00:07:17,972 --> 00:07:19,430 Speaker 2: Our sermons aren't based 117 00:07:19,430 --> 00:07:21,257 on what's happening in a book, it's 118 00:07:21,257 --> 00:07:22,840 based on what's happening in the news. 119 00:07:22,840 --> 00:07:24,979 That's where we live, we're not living in a book. 120 00:07:24,979 --> 00:07:26,145 We're literally living here. 121 00:07:26,145 --> 00:07:28,030 Speaker 3: We don't have like, this I believe 122 00:07:28,030 --> 00:07:29,410 and therefore you should believe this. 123 00:07:29,410 --> 00:07:31,326 Speaker 4: I find that there's a give and take 124 00:07:31,326 --> 00:07:34,820 discussion of what God or the Creator is. 125 00:07:34,820 --> 00:07:38,042 Speaker 5: Everybody finds that they feel like they belong 126 00:07:38,042 --> 00:07:39,750 Speaker 6: You don't have to be anything, 127 00:07:39,750 --> 00:07:42,650 you just have to show up 128 00:07:42,650 --> 00:07:44,300 Speaker 7: It's not like the people 129 00:07:44,300 --> 00:07:48,160 who are there are the only people allowed. 130 00:07:48,160 --> 00:07:50,150 Speaker 8: It's a wonderful place 131 00:07:50,150 --> 00:07:53,980 to interact with people without anything other 132 00:07:53,980 --> 00:07:56,590 than, hi, I see you. 133 00:07:56,590 --> 00:07:58,006 How are you today? 134 00:07:58,006 --> 00:08:03,122 Speaker 9: It's singing, it's dancing, and it is joy. 135 00:08:03,122 --> 00:08:18,340 [SINGING] 136 00:08:18,340 --> 00:08:21,020 Speaker 10: People say things like, God loves and then 137 00:08:21,020 --> 00:08:23,730 you better change your life you're going to go to hell. 138 00:08:23,730 --> 00:08:26,440 There is no experience with God that 139 00:08:26,440 --> 00:08:28,070 would ever condemn you to hell. 140 00:08:28,070 --> 00:08:30,400 Speaker 11: We're born with worth, and dignity, 141 00:08:30,400 --> 00:08:32,755 and goodness that doesn't need to be earned. 142 00:08:32,755 --> 00:08:34,130 Speaker 12: We're born from love, 143 00:08:34,130 --> 00:08:36,171 and that's all we want for the rest of our lives. 144 00:08:36,171 --> 00:08:39,690 Speaker 13: All I want for us to do as a community is just 145 00:08:39,690 --> 00:08:42,525 go out and love the hell out of the world. 146 00:08:42,525 --> 00:08:44,900 Speaker 11: All of the things that the world is suffering 147 00:08:44,900 --> 00:08:46,990 from can't be eliminated until we 148 00:08:46,990 --> 00:08:50,420 start with understanding that we're all interconnected. 149 00:08:50,420 --> 00:08:53,930 And that, in order for me to get somewhere, 150 00:08:53,930 --> 00:08:56,199 I need to help everybody that comes into my path. 151 00:08:56,199 --> 00:08:57,740 Speaker 14: For me, Original Blessing 152 00:08:57,740 --> 00:09:00,152 is really spirituality through service. 153 00:09:00,152 --> 00:09:02,610 Speaker 15: I've never been a part of a community like that 154 00:09:02,610 --> 00:09:03,109 before. 155 00:09:03,109 --> 00:09:04,689 It's always been more like, someone 156 00:09:04,689 --> 00:09:05,980 should do something about that. 157 00:09:05,980 --> 00:09:08,590 And today I see that I can be that someone. 158 00:09:08,590 --> 00:09:11,710 Speaker 16: How can I help make this a more uplifting and more 159 00:09:11,710 --> 00:09:13,770 fulfilling place for other people to be? 160 00:09:13,770 --> 00:09:16,870 Speaker 10: When we move from, I want 161 00:09:16,870 --> 00:09:19,560 to pray to have a calm life, or meditate to have a calm 162 00:09:19,560 --> 00:09:22,980 life to I want to meditate and pray 163 00:09:22,980 --> 00:09:24,510 for you to have a calm life. 164 00:09:24,510 --> 00:09:27,155 Speaker 17: It's not about me as an individual becoming better, 165 00:09:27,155 --> 00:09:29,405 but I need to help you, you need to help me. 166 00:09:29,405 --> 00:09:31,870 And that it's as we figure these things out 167 00:09:31,870 --> 00:09:35,080 that we all grow and become more of ourselves. 168 00:09:35,080 --> 00:09:36,525 Speaker 18: I think I have escaped 169 00:09:36,525 --> 00:09:39,130 from a sense of loneliness and disconnection. 170 00:09:39,130 --> 00:09:41,090 Speaker 17: I really have the desire for us 171 00:09:41,090 --> 00:09:43,994 to be more connected in the ways that we live with one another. 172 00:09:43,994 --> 00:09:45,910 Speaker 10: Being out there and telling people 173 00:09:45,910 --> 00:09:47,760 that there's a greater experience of love, 174 00:09:47,760 --> 00:10:21,920 and we would love to walk that path with them. 175 00:10:21,920 --> 00:10:23,790 Mia Morse: My name is Mia Morse. 176 00:10:23,790 --> 00:10:26,880 I'm a member of the Unitarian Church in Summit, New Jersey, 177 00:10:26,880 --> 00:10:31,230 and president of the Metro New York District. 178 00:10:31,230 --> 00:10:35,450 I'm honored to present to you the Reverend Ian White 179 00:10:35,450 --> 00:10:39,310 Maher and his board member, Robin Bossert. 180 00:10:39,310 --> 00:10:42,410 Original Blessing is our district's first new church 181 00:10:42,410 --> 00:10:46,160 in almost 20 years-- founded in part with support 182 00:10:46,160 --> 00:10:51,520 from the First Congregational Society of Brooklyn 183 00:10:51,520 --> 00:10:53,920 and our Chalice Lighters program-- 184 00:10:53,920 --> 00:10:56,060 and conducts Sunday evening services 185 00:10:56,060 --> 00:11:00,260 At 5:00 PM in the northern section of Brooklyn, 186 00:11:00,260 --> 00:11:02,690 in the community of Greenpoint, New York. 187 00:11:02,690 --> 00:11:06,120 Sounds different right, already? 188 00:11:06,120 --> 00:11:09,350 The church was founded by Reverend Ian White 189 00:11:09,350 --> 00:11:13,060 Maher, a true visionary that has taken our principles 190 00:11:13,060 --> 00:11:17,100 to a new plane and put our dreams in motion to create 191 00:11:17,100 --> 00:11:20,260 a church home for our sisters and brothers 192 00:11:20,260 --> 00:11:23,980 that feels, acts, and looks like home. 193 00:11:23,980 --> 00:11:28,120 As a growing family of 40 plus, Original Blessings mission 194 00:11:28,120 --> 00:11:32,800 statement reads, "We are a spiritually ambitious movement, 195 00:11:32,800 --> 00:11:35,670 seeking a relationship with God in order 196 00:11:35,670 --> 00:11:39,590 to transform our world through creative worship, 197 00:11:39,590 --> 00:11:43,110 social justice, and compassionate community." 198 00:11:43,110 --> 00:11:46,850 What's intriguing is their aspirational model 199 00:11:46,850 --> 00:11:50,340 of membership, encouraging the idea of ambition 200 00:11:50,340 --> 00:11:52,660 as belonging to the people who strive 201 00:11:52,660 --> 00:11:57,470 for a more deeply related world. 202 00:11:57,470 --> 00:11:59,930 Each developmental stage of membership 203 00:11:59,930 --> 00:12:02,870 has meaningful goals, defined stewardship, 204 00:12:02,870 --> 00:12:06,490 and a path for leadership development as a basis. 205 00:12:06,490 --> 00:12:08,120 This is definitely a model that's 206 00:12:08,120 --> 00:12:12,250 appealing and key to attracting new members with a clear plan 207 00:12:12,250 --> 00:12:17,550 for giving of time, treasure, and talents within the church. 208 00:12:17,550 --> 00:12:22,760 These six core ministerial areas of spiritual development, 209 00:12:22,760 --> 00:12:26,650 social justice, thought leadership, earth community, 210 00:12:26,650 --> 00:12:27,900 and art. 211 00:12:27,900 --> 00:12:32,190 Before serving the community and taking on new projects, 212 00:12:32,190 --> 00:12:35,280 each must fall within one of these core areas, 213 00:12:35,280 --> 00:12:39,230 further illustrating the mantra, "mission first." 214 00:12:39,230 --> 00:12:43,590 Moving worship, RE-- religious exploration-- 215 00:12:43,590 --> 00:12:49,420 member moving music, thought leadership-- wow, yes, you 216 00:12:49,420 --> 00:12:52,180 may see the leaders of the Original Blessing 217 00:12:52,180 --> 00:12:57,320 at Kripalu or other retreat centers sharing our values 218 00:12:57,320 --> 00:12:59,040 and growing our faith. 219 00:12:59,040 --> 00:13:01,070 When I think about Original Blessing, 220 00:13:01,070 --> 00:13:04,410 I am reminded of Martin Luther King Jr.'s quote, 221 00:13:04,410 --> 00:13:09,790 "Life's most urgent question is, what are you doing for others?" 222 00:13:09,790 --> 00:13:13,040 There's not a doubt in my mind that Original Blessing 223 00:13:13,040 --> 00:13:15,140 is a blessing for others. 224 00:13:15,140 --> 00:13:17,630 So please keep your eyes on the prize. 225 00:13:17,630 --> 00:13:21,400 We lovingly support you as you embrace others and illuminate 226 00:13:21,400 --> 00:13:23,600 your light to shine in the world. 227 00:13:23,600 --> 00:13:25,660 On behalf of the Metro New York District, 228 00:13:25,660 --> 00:13:30,840 we express heartfelt thanks to the UUA Board of Trustees 229 00:13:30,840 --> 00:13:33,630 for welcoming Original Blessing, and many thanks 230 00:13:33,630 --> 00:13:38,476 to every member of Original Blessing, and to you, Ian. 231 00:13:38,476 --> 00:14:01,650 [APPLAUSE] 232 00:14:01,650 --> 00:14:10,300 Donna Harrison: And now, it's time for our Banner Parade. 233 00:14:10,300 --> 00:14:13,050 It's a time of ritual and celebration 234 00:14:13,050 --> 00:14:18,186 in this historic city known for brave and bold leadership. 235 00:14:18,186 --> 00:14:20,310 Jim Key: Before I introduce some other folks to you 236 00:14:20,310 --> 00:14:22,370 that you need to know for this evening, 237 00:14:22,370 --> 00:14:26,130 let me suggest you keep your smart phones handy. 238 00:14:26,130 --> 00:14:28,870 We encourage you to tweet if you are so moved. 239 00:14:28,870 --> 00:14:32,630 And you might want to use the #UUAGA. 240 00:14:32,630 --> 00:14:34,740 Some of you are already familiar with it. 241 00:14:34,740 --> 00:14:36,560 So those of you that are tech savvy 242 00:14:36,560 --> 00:14:39,510 can follow all the commentary, photos, that sort of thing, 243 00:14:39,510 --> 00:14:41,960 during the course of the general sessions 244 00:14:41,960 --> 00:14:44,140 and other events going on this week. 245 00:14:44,140 --> 00:14:47,450 If you haven't downloaded a GA app, 246 00:14:47,450 --> 00:14:50,300 you might want to do so now, quietly. 247 00:14:50,300 --> 00:14:56,080 And you can search the app store for UUA General Assembly 2014. 248 00:14:56,080 --> 00:14:58,702 If you search for that, you can take it from there 249 00:14:58,702 --> 00:15:00,410 and get some help from people beside you. 250 00:15:00,410 --> 00:15:02,190 I'm going to let you fiddle with that 251 00:15:02,190 --> 00:15:04,340 while we proceed to introduce some folks to you. 252 00:15:04,340 --> 00:15:07,480 So my pleasure this evening is to introduce 253 00:15:07,480 --> 00:15:11,010 Unitarians, Unitarian Universalists, Interfaith 254 00:15:11,010 --> 00:15:14,090 and Human Rights partners from around the world 255 00:15:14,090 --> 00:15:16,950 to our General Assembly this year. 256 00:15:16,950 --> 00:15:20,150 Please be sure to extend your welcome to all of our honored 257 00:15:20,150 --> 00:15:22,350 guests during the week together. 258 00:15:22,350 --> 00:15:25,420 You can visit the international booth in the exhibit hall 259 00:15:25,420 --> 00:15:28,630 to find out about events that they'll be participating in. 260 00:15:28,630 --> 00:15:32,050 And we look forward to sharing some more time with them 261 00:15:32,050 --> 00:15:34,730 during the general session on Saturday morning as well, 262 00:15:34,730 --> 00:15:38,475 where you'll learn more about our international affiliations. 263 00:15:38,475 --> 00:15:40,350 And I'm going to introduce some folks to you. 264 00:15:40,350 --> 00:15:43,630 And I would ask that they stand-- hold your applause-- 265 00:15:43,630 --> 00:15:44,810 stand as they're introduced. 266 00:15:44,810 --> 00:15:46,990 And I hope the cameras can pan and catch them. 267 00:15:46,990 --> 00:15:51,210 They're mostly on this side of hall. 268 00:15:51,210 --> 00:15:55,210 From Osaka, Japan- the most Reverend Mitsuo Miyake, 269 00:15:55,210 --> 00:15:58,390 Chief Priest of the Konko Church of Izuo, 270 00:15:58,390 --> 00:16:03,330 and his daughters, the Reverend Kauru Miyake and Izumi Miyake. 271 00:16:03,330 --> 00:16:04,540 Where are they? 272 00:16:04,540 --> 00:16:12,130 Welcome. 273 00:16:12,130 --> 00:16:14,160 And you don't follow instructions very well. 274 00:16:14,160 --> 00:16:18,680 We're glad to have them all, but we want to wait till the end. 275 00:16:18,680 --> 00:16:22,610 Also from Tokyo, Japan- the Reverend Waichi Hishina, 276 00:16:22,610 --> 00:16:26,210 Director of the Social Ministry Group from Rissho Kosei-kai, 277 00:16:26,210 --> 00:16:29,100 with members of the RKK External affairs 278 00:16:29,100 --> 00:16:38,190 staff joining, Ms. Hiroyo Murayama and Mrs. Ikuye Kase. 279 00:16:38,190 --> 00:16:43,030 From India, leaders of the Human Rights organization Shamrik 280 00:16:43,030 --> 00:16:45,960 Elgar-- this is the workers Push-- 281 00:16:45,960 --> 00:16:49,750 and partners of the UUA Holdeen India Program, Paromita 282 00:16:49,750 --> 00:16:53,300 Goswamand and Kalyan Navan. 283 00:16:53,300 --> 00:16:57,250 From Transylvania- Bishop David Gyero, 284 00:16:57,250 --> 00:17:00,770 Counselor to the Bishop of the Hungarian Unitarian Church, 285 00:17:00,770 --> 00:17:03,290 the Reverend Karoly Vass, Assistant Minister 286 00:17:03,290 --> 00:17:05,839 for the Unitarian Church of Sepsiszentgyorgy, 287 00:17:05,839 --> 00:17:09,589 and Balazs Scholar at Starr King School for the Ministry 288 00:17:09,589 --> 00:17:12,730 this past year, and two leaders of the Women's 289 00:17:12,730 --> 00:17:17,500 Association of the Hungarian Association Church, Gizi Nagy 290 00:17:17,500 --> 00:17:20,990 and Zsuzsana Szabo. 291 00:17:20,990 --> 00:17:26,400 From Kisii, Kenya- Justine Magara, a 292 00:17:26,400 --> 00:17:30,212 lay minister of the UU Church of Kenya. 293 00:17:30,212 --> 00:17:32,170 And from the Philippines- the Reverend 294 00:17:32,170 --> 00:17:37,990 Tet Gallardo, Minister of the Bicutan UU Church in Manila. 295 00:17:37,990 --> 00:17:43,800 From Prague, Czech Republic- the Reverend Petr Samojsky, 296 00:17:43,800 --> 00:17:46,820 Minister of the Prague Unitarian Church, and four members 297 00:17:46,820 --> 00:17:51,540 of his church, Katerina Samojska, Michal Kohout, 298 00:17:51,540 --> 00:17:57,460 Marketa Drtinova, and Denisa Fialova. 299 00:17:57,460 --> 00:18:01,850 From North East India- the Reverend Darihun Khriam, 300 00:18:01,850 --> 00:18:06,040 Minister of Unitarian Church in Smit and Kharang. 301 00:18:06,040 --> 00:18:09,190 From the United Kingdom- Derek McAuley, 302 00:18:09,190 --> 00:18:12,770 Reverend Richard Boeke, Reverend Jopie Boeke, 303 00:18:12,770 --> 00:18:15,800 and the Reverend Andy Pakula, Chief Officer and ministers 304 00:18:15,800 --> 00:18:17,910 with the General Assembly of the Unitarian 305 00:18:17,910 --> 00:18:21,080 and free Christian churches, and the Reverend Steve Dick 306 00:18:21,080 --> 00:18:22,890 Executive Director of the International 307 00:18:22,890 --> 00:18:26,000 Council of Unitarians and Universalists. 308 00:18:26,000 --> 00:18:28,910 From Switzerland- Lara Fuchs, Leader of the UU 309 00:18:28,910 --> 00:18:32,580 fellowship of Basel. 310 00:18:32,580 --> 00:18:35,020 From Toronto, Canada- the Executive Director 311 00:18:35,020 --> 00:18:38,790 of the Canadian Unitarian Council, Vyda Ng. 312 00:18:38,790 --> 00:18:41,990 From Paris, France- the President of European Unitarian 313 00:18:41,990 --> 00:18:44,870 Universalists, Dorcy Erlandsen. 314 00:18:44,870 --> 00:18:49,430 And from Germany- Logan Deimler and Tina Huesing, 315 00:18:49,430 --> 00:18:51,570 Vice President and Social Justice Chairperson 316 00:18:51,570 --> 00:18:54,810 for European Unitarian Universalists. 317 00:18:54,810 --> 00:18:57,560 We welcome all of our international guests, 318 00:18:57,560 --> 00:18:59,960 and we're glad you could join us. 319 00:18:59,960 --> 00:19:16,620 [APPLAUSE] 320 00:19:16,620 --> 00:19:19,170 Jim Key: If there was ever any doubt in your mind 321 00:19:19,170 --> 00:19:21,560 that we are an international movement, 322 00:19:21,560 --> 00:19:23,130 one of the interesting things to me 323 00:19:23,130 --> 00:19:25,630 as the Moderator over the first year 324 00:19:25,630 --> 00:19:28,760 are the emails and Facebook postings 325 00:19:28,760 --> 00:19:31,415 I get from all over the world. 326 00:19:31,415 --> 00:19:32,540 We are truly international. 327 00:19:32,540 --> 00:19:35,110 It's a blessing to have you all with us. 328 00:19:35,110 --> 00:19:36,930 I now would like to welcome and introduce 329 00:19:36,930 --> 00:19:40,020 Olivia Calvi and Owen Huelsbeck, the co-deans of the youth 330 00:19:40,020 --> 00:19:41,889 caucus for this General Assembly, 331 00:19:41,889 --> 00:19:43,680 and Hannah Robertson, the Reverend Jonathan 332 00:19:43,680 --> 00:19:47,090 Rodgers, Co-facilitators of young adults at GA. 333 00:19:47,090 --> 00:19:48,654 Please welcome them. 334 00:19:48,654 --> 00:19:58,550 [APPLAUSE] 335 00:19:58,550 --> 00:20:00,310 Owen Huelsbeck: Hello everyone. 336 00:20:00,310 --> 00:20:01,910 Olivia Calvi: My name is Olivia Calvi 337 00:20:01,910 --> 00:20:05,426 and I'm from Emerson UU Church in Los Angeles, California. 338 00:20:05,426 --> 00:20:07,300 Owen Huelsbeck: And my name is Owen Heulsbeck 339 00:20:07,300 --> 00:20:09,280 from Tacoma Unitarian Universalist 340 00:20:09,280 --> 00:20:17,800 Congregation of Tacoma, Washington. 341 00:20:17,800 --> 00:20:20,360 We are the co deans of the Youth Caucus 342 00:20:20,360 --> 00:20:23,130 here at General Assembly 2014. 343 00:20:23,130 --> 00:20:34,966 We have over 300 registrants this year, seated over there, 344 00:20:34,966 --> 00:20:39,010 and we cannot be happier sharing our faith with you all, 345 00:20:39,010 --> 00:20:41,544 reaching out in love together. 346 00:20:41,544 --> 00:20:43,460 Olivia Calvi: We would like to formally invite 347 00:20:43,460 --> 00:20:47,490 everyone of all ages to share our space in the Waterplace 348 00:20:47,490 --> 00:20:48,790 Ballroom at the Omni. 349 00:20:48,790 --> 00:20:52,050 Owen Huelsbeck: And when we say all ages, we really mean it. 350 00:20:52,050 --> 00:20:53,560 We'd love to see every one of you 351 00:20:53,560 --> 00:20:56,439 here share our space throughout GA. 352 00:20:56,439 --> 00:20:58,980 Olivia Calvi: Youth Caucus staff will be wearing pink buttons 353 00:20:58,980 --> 00:21:01,100 or bandannas throughout the week. 354 00:21:01,100 --> 00:21:03,830 Come up to us and talk to you have any questions, 355 00:21:03,830 --> 00:21:07,197 or if you just want to talk, we love doing that too. 356 00:21:07,197 --> 00:21:09,030 Owen Huelsbeck: Last year, when Olivia and I 357 00:21:09,030 --> 00:21:11,360 began planning for General Assembly, 358 00:21:11,360 --> 00:21:13,960 we created a vision statement that has guided us 359 00:21:13,960 --> 00:21:15,920 through the planning process. 360 00:21:15,920 --> 00:21:18,080 We want to share it with you in hopes 361 00:21:18,080 --> 00:21:20,820 it will help guide you through GA as well. 362 00:21:20,820 --> 00:21:24,550 Olivia Calvi: We envision GA 2014 as a deeply spiritual 363 00:21:24,550 --> 00:21:26,810 and religious community that provides 364 00:21:26,810 --> 00:21:28,990 the opportunity for all generations 365 00:21:28,990 --> 00:21:30,735 to collaborate and grow as leaders. 366 00:21:30,735 --> 00:21:32,360 Owen Huelsbeck: We envision a gathering 367 00:21:32,360 --> 00:21:36,260 where people of all ages are challenged, encouraged, 368 00:21:36,260 --> 00:21:39,420 and equipped to live their values in the world, 369 00:21:39,420 --> 00:21:42,410 reaching out beyond themselves in service 370 00:21:42,410 --> 00:21:43,831 of a collective mission. 371 00:21:43,831 --> 00:21:45,830 Olivia Calvi: We hope that this vision statement 372 00:21:45,830 --> 00:21:47,240 helps you reach out in love. 373 00:21:47,240 --> 00:21:50,760 We are so excited to be a presence in this community, 374 00:21:50,760 --> 00:21:52,420 and we hope you join us as a Caucus 375 00:21:52,420 --> 00:21:53,751 in celebrating our faith. 376 00:21:53,751 --> 00:21:54,750 Olivia Calvi: Thank you. 377 00:21:54,750 --> 00:22:04,090 [APPLAUSE] 378 00:22:04,090 --> 00:22:05,940 Hannah Roberts: Good evening everyone. 379 00:22:05,940 --> 00:22:08,270 I'm Hannah Roberts, co-facilitator 380 00:22:08,270 --> 00:22:14,132 of Young Adults at General Assembly, or YA@GA. 381 00:22:14,132 --> 00:22:16,340 Johnathan Rodgers: And I'm Reverend Jonathan Rodgers, 382 00:22:16,340 --> 00:22:19,590 GA Talks Program Coordinator. 383 00:22:19,590 --> 00:22:22,840 Hannah Roberts: Formerly known as Young Adult Caucus, 384 00:22:22,840 --> 00:22:27,500 our staff has been hard at work, designing programming that 385 00:22:27,500 --> 00:22:33,000 needs the diverse needs of the multitude of identities 386 00:22:33,000 --> 00:22:38,205 and life experiences that fall under the umbrella term, 387 00:22:38,205 --> 00:22:42,880 "young adult." we hope to be in conversation 388 00:22:42,880 --> 00:22:47,610 with young adults about this shift throughout GA. 389 00:22:47,610 --> 00:22:52,030 This year's staff also includes co-facilitator Nic Cable, 390 00:22:52,030 --> 00:22:56,230 our Community Engagement Coordinator Abigail Clauhs, 391 00:22:56,230 --> 00:22:59,134 and our Worship Coordinator Christopher Watkins. 392 00:22:59,134 --> 00:23:01,550 Johnathan Rodgers: If you're looking for us during General 393 00:23:01,550 --> 00:23:07,250 Session, young adults have our own seating section over there 394 00:23:07,250 --> 00:23:14,670 in the hall. 395 00:23:14,670 --> 00:23:17,960 Many young adults will also be wearing ocean 396 00:23:17,960 --> 00:23:20,710 blue ribbons on their name tags. 397 00:23:20,710 --> 00:23:24,220 You can identify the YA@GA staff by our ocean 398 00:23:24,220 --> 00:23:26,790 blue bandannas, which we'll be wearing 399 00:23:26,790 --> 00:23:30,190 in some fashion throughout GA. 400 00:23:30,190 --> 00:23:33,960 Hannah Roberts: We hope to see all of you, regardless of age, 401 00:23:33,960 --> 00:23:36,310 during this General Assembly. 402 00:23:36,310 --> 00:23:40,820 Love reaches out across so many boundaries. 403 00:23:40,820 --> 00:23:44,930 And our goal is to facilitate multi-generational and 404 00:23:44,930 --> 00:23:49,320 multicultural community throughout GA. 405 00:23:49,320 --> 00:23:51,900 Check out the program book for the complete listing 406 00:23:51,900 --> 00:23:54,090 of YA@GA offerings. 407 00:23:54,090 --> 00:23:55,830 Johnathan Rodgers: Specifically, we'd 408 00:23:55,830 --> 00:23:59,520 like to draw your attention to our series of GA Talks 409 00:23:59,520 --> 00:24:00,990 workshops. 410 00:24:00,990 --> 00:24:04,600 These three sessions will give you the opportunity 411 00:24:04,600 --> 00:24:08,260 to engage with innovators in our faith movement. 412 00:24:08,260 --> 00:24:10,340 Join us for the first session tomorrow 413 00:24:10,340 --> 00:24:14,714 At 12:30 PM in Convention Center Hall C. 414 00:24:14,714 --> 00:24:16,130 Hannah Roberts: Finally, we'd like 415 00:24:16,130 --> 00:24:20,440 to invite you to the YA@GA opening worship tonight. 416 00:24:20,440 --> 00:24:24,050 This special collaboration with The Sanctuary Boston 417 00:24:24,050 --> 00:24:28,060 will be at first Unitarian Church Of Providence At 9:45 418 00:24:28,060 --> 00:24:29,300 PM. 419 00:24:29,300 --> 00:24:32,240 All ages are invited to worship with us. 420 00:24:32,240 --> 00:24:36,245 See a YA@GA staff member for more information. 421 00:24:36,245 --> 00:24:38,620 Johnathan Rodgers: We hope that each and every one of you 422 00:24:38,620 --> 00:24:42,792 lets your love reach out in ways you never imagined possible. 423 00:24:42,792 --> 00:24:44,250 Hannah Roberts: And we look forward 424 00:24:44,250 --> 00:24:47,550 to spending these next few days with you all and-- 425 00:24:47,550 --> 00:24:49,756 Both: Have a great GA. 426 00:24:49,756 --> 00:25:01,660 [APPLAUSE] 427 00:25:01,660 --> 00:25:04,980 Jim Key: If you have an open spot on your dance card, 428 00:25:04,980 --> 00:25:07,380 I really recommend Sanctuary Boston. 429 00:25:07,380 --> 00:25:10,050 I had the good privilege of worshipping with them 430 00:25:10,050 --> 00:25:15,020 in Boston, and they've led the Board of Trustees in worship. 431 00:25:15,020 --> 00:25:16,370 It's really exciting. 432 00:25:16,370 --> 00:25:19,090 And no matter your age, I would encourage 433 00:25:19,090 --> 00:25:25,380 you to attend if you've still Got Energy Left At 9:30. 434 00:25:25,380 --> 00:25:29,030 A shout out to the young adults at GA. 435 00:25:29,030 --> 00:25:33,380 We stole the GA Talk from them, and we've used them liberally, 436 00:25:33,380 --> 00:25:34,290 using their model. 437 00:25:34,290 --> 00:25:36,090 We really appreciate that. 438 00:25:36,090 --> 00:25:38,490 Now it's time to welcome Patty Cameron, who is here 439 00:25:38,490 --> 00:25:40,970 to tell us about Accessibility Services at this General 440 00:25:40,970 --> 00:25:42,000 Assembly. 441 00:25:42,000 --> 00:25:43,490 The GA Planning Committee and Patty 442 00:25:43,490 --> 00:25:45,210 have done a great job over the years 443 00:25:45,210 --> 00:25:48,420 of making GA more and more accessible to more 444 00:25:48,420 --> 00:25:49,521 and more people. 445 00:25:49,521 --> 00:25:57,060 [APPLAUSE] 446 00:25:57,060 --> 00:25:59,010 Patty Cameron: Welcome to General Assembly. 447 00:25:59,010 --> 00:26:02,180 My name is Patty Cameron, and it's my pleasure 448 00:26:02,180 --> 00:26:06,640 to coordinate the Accessibility Services for General Assembly. 449 00:26:06,640 --> 00:26:09,610 I want to express my appreciation to the GA planning 450 00:26:09,610 --> 00:26:13,040 committee for allowing me this time to share with you how 451 00:26:13,040 --> 00:26:18,300 we can all be in beloved community-- all of us-- 452 00:26:18,300 --> 00:26:21,030 including those who use mobility equipment, 453 00:26:21,030 --> 00:26:25,260 listening devices, interpreters, have chemical sensitivity, 454 00:26:25,260 --> 00:26:28,820 assist dogs, or need special seating to accommodate 455 00:26:28,820 --> 00:26:30,880 for vision or hearing. 456 00:26:30,880 --> 00:26:34,390 Our services are available to anyone registered here 457 00:26:34,390 --> 00:26:36,590 at General Assembly, and our goal 458 00:26:36,590 --> 00:26:39,860 is to provide assistance that allows everyone 459 00:26:39,860 --> 00:26:43,610 to participate fully in General Assembly. 460 00:26:43,610 --> 00:26:47,390 I hope you'll take notice of the accommodations available 461 00:26:47,390 --> 00:26:51,600 and bring these ideas back to your own congregations. 462 00:26:51,600 --> 00:26:55,630 And while you're here, please pay particular attention 463 00:26:55,630 --> 00:26:59,860 as you pass along the halls, navigate the Public Witness 464 00:26:59,860 --> 00:27:04,660 event, and attend workshops together. 465 00:27:04,660 --> 00:27:07,220 Moving along the hallways, remember 466 00:27:07,220 --> 00:27:12,420 that people using scooters don't have brakes. 467 00:27:12,420 --> 00:27:16,540 Please don't stop suddenly to chat 468 00:27:16,540 --> 00:27:19,740 because the person behind you using a scooter 469 00:27:19,740 --> 00:27:22,590 can't stop suddenly. 470 00:27:22,590 --> 00:27:26,890 Please reserve the elevators for people with mobility or health 471 00:27:26,890 --> 00:27:29,220 needs. 472 00:27:29,220 --> 00:27:33,070 I invite you to be with one another this week in ways 473 00:27:33,070 --> 00:27:36,940 that allow you to practice radical hospitality. 474 00:27:36,940 --> 00:27:42,450 Stretch your comfort zone, enrich your spirit, 475 00:27:42,450 --> 00:27:47,430 open your heart-- a little or a lot-- 476 00:27:47,430 --> 00:27:51,650 and widen your field of vision as you take all those 477 00:27:51,650 --> 00:27:56,310 around you-- whether they walk or ride. 478 00:27:56,310 --> 00:27:59,770 We are all part of this General Assembly-- one 479 00:27:59,770 --> 00:28:04,420 beloved community-- a bright, wonderful community 480 00:28:04,420 --> 00:28:07,450 of people of all abilities. 481 00:28:07,450 --> 00:28:10,150 Be with each other in love. 482 00:28:10,150 --> 00:28:11,586 Thank you. 483 00:28:11,586 --> 00:28:19,370 [APPLAUSE] 484 00:28:19,370 --> 00:28:20,704 Jim Key: Thank you, Patty. 485 00:28:20,704 --> 00:28:21,370 How do you feel? 486 00:28:21,370 --> 00:28:26,090 You all look great. 487 00:28:26,090 --> 00:28:26,820 You really do. 488 00:28:26,820 --> 00:28:29,050 I can't imagine how many we have in here, 489 00:28:29,050 --> 00:28:31,230 but the hall is really full, isn't it? 490 00:28:31,230 --> 00:28:33,750 Now I want to welcome the Reverend Bret Lortie to tell us 491 00:28:33,750 --> 00:28:39,612 the important work of the GA Chaplains. 492 00:28:39,612 --> 00:28:47,450 [APPLAUSE] 493 00:28:47,450 --> 00:28:50,110 Bret Lortie: Greetings Providence, General Assembly. 494 00:28:50,110 --> 00:28:53,720 Before I go into my prepared remarks and introduce the team, 495 00:28:53,720 --> 00:28:57,150 I do have a bit of chaplain business to perform. 496 00:28:57,150 --> 00:29:01,890 We're looking for someone named John Shonle from Milford, New 497 00:29:01,890 --> 00:29:02,870 Hampshire. 498 00:29:02,870 --> 00:29:05,260 And if I could meet John immediately 499 00:29:05,260 --> 00:29:10,160 after this segment-- right over there by the tech deck-- 500 00:29:10,160 --> 00:29:12,520 that would be great. 501 00:29:12,520 --> 00:29:14,580 So greetings, my name is Bret Lortie, 502 00:29:14,580 --> 00:29:16,730 and I'm the lead General Assembly 503 00:29:16,730 --> 00:29:19,310 chaplain for this year. 504 00:29:19,310 --> 00:29:22,560 There are many chaplains at General Assembly serving 505 00:29:22,560 --> 00:29:25,050 many of our constituent groups. 506 00:29:25,050 --> 00:29:29,270 Let me tell you what makes the GA Chaplain Corps unique. 507 00:29:29,270 --> 00:29:33,560 We are the chaplains chosen by the General Assembly Planning 508 00:29:33,560 --> 00:29:38,250 Committee available to everyone 24 hours a day. 509 00:29:38,250 --> 00:29:40,090 All of our chaplains are ministers 510 00:29:40,090 --> 00:29:42,740 in full fellowship with the Unitarian Universalist 511 00:29:42,740 --> 00:29:43,900 Association. 512 00:29:43,900 --> 00:29:45,290 And we come from a diversity city 513 00:29:45,290 --> 00:29:50,490 that we hope reflects the beauty of this gathering. 514 00:29:50,490 --> 00:29:53,470 Your GA chaplains offer several services, 515 00:29:53,470 --> 00:29:56,510 including-- we've got morning devotional 516 00:29:56,510 --> 00:29:59,990 practices in the Blackstone Room at the Omni Hotel 517 00:29:59,990 --> 00:30:04,070 with posted hours for self-directed practice. 518 00:30:04,070 --> 00:30:06,746 Every day there will be Scheduled Drop-in Hours At 9:00 519 00:30:06,746 --> 00:30:10,490 And 11:00, 2:00 and 4:00, 7:00 And 9:00, 520 00:30:10,490 --> 00:30:14,340 in the chaplain office room 550B, which we're now 521 00:30:14,340 --> 00:30:16,980 sharing with the Right Relations Team. 522 00:30:16,980 --> 00:30:23,022 We said we wanted to be closer this year, and boy we are. 523 00:30:23,022 --> 00:30:25,480 And we are going to be working very closely with your Right 524 00:30:25,480 --> 00:30:26,360 Relations Team. 525 00:30:26,360 --> 00:30:29,320 We know that often a breach of relationship 526 00:30:29,320 --> 00:30:33,160 needs or could use both an institutional and a pastoral 527 00:30:33,160 --> 00:30:33,970 response. 528 00:30:33,970 --> 00:30:38,820 And we will strive to see that both needs are addressed. 529 00:30:38,820 --> 00:30:41,160 You can spot your GA chaplains roaming 530 00:30:41,160 --> 00:30:45,970 throughout the Convention Center by our bright orange logos, 531 00:30:45,970 --> 00:30:49,430 sporting the new UUA symbol. 532 00:30:49,430 --> 00:30:52,530 And even if you're not needing to talk to a chaplain, 533 00:30:52,530 --> 00:30:56,300 feel free to pull the side and say "hello," 534 00:30:56,300 --> 00:30:59,140 or drop by the chaplain's office. 535 00:30:59,140 --> 00:31:03,650 We are here to serve this gathering of beloved community. 536 00:31:03,650 --> 00:31:07,270 So please let me introduce each of your 2014 GA 537 00:31:07,270 --> 00:31:13,950 chaplains- Jennifer Brooks-- we'll hold applause 538 00:31:13,950 --> 00:31:20,760 til the end-- Marisol Caballero, Beth Dana, David Pyle, 539 00:31:20,760 --> 00:31:22,126 and Julie Taylor. 540 00:31:22,126 --> 00:31:22,626 Thank you. 541 00:31:22,626 --> 00:31:38,434 [APPLAUSE] 542 00:31:38,434 --> 00:31:39,600 Jim Key: Thank you for that. 543 00:31:39,600 --> 00:31:42,130 And now it's time for me to introduce and welcome 544 00:31:42,130 --> 00:31:45,500 the co-chairs of your 2014 Right Relationship 545 00:31:45,500 --> 00:31:49,600 Team, Raziq Brown and Mr. Barb Greve. 546 00:31:49,600 --> 00:31:59,200 [APPLAUSE] 547 00:31:59,200 --> 00:32:02,020 Raziq Brown: Good evening. 548 00:32:02,020 --> 00:32:04,420 We are the Right Relationship Team. 549 00:32:04,420 --> 00:32:08,270 We exist to help all live into our Unitarian Universalist 550 00:32:08,270 --> 00:32:10,800 covenant of care and love. 551 00:32:10,800 --> 00:32:14,460 As we lean into creating a more just and sustainable community 552 00:32:14,460 --> 00:32:16,600 that counters oppressions, we call forth 553 00:32:16,600 --> 00:32:20,680 our compassion, wholeness, and liberation. 554 00:32:20,680 --> 00:32:22,140 The Right Relationship Team is here 555 00:32:22,140 --> 00:32:25,420 to help us stay in healthy relationship with one another. 556 00:32:25,420 --> 00:32:27,360 Our role is twofold. 557 00:32:27,360 --> 00:32:29,750 One, if you find yourself out of relationship 558 00:32:29,750 --> 00:32:31,600 with other attendees of the assembly 559 00:32:31,600 --> 00:32:34,350 and would like help returning to right relationship, 560 00:32:34,350 --> 00:32:35,870 we will help you directly address 561 00:32:35,870 --> 00:32:38,600 those with whom you are out of relationship. 562 00:32:38,600 --> 00:32:41,220 And two, the RRT will pay attention 563 00:32:41,220 --> 00:32:44,590 to the multiple intersecting realities of injustice, 564 00:32:44,590 --> 00:32:47,310 suffering, and oppression in our lives, 565 00:32:47,310 --> 00:32:50,160 noting the places where we do well and the places we 566 00:32:50,160 --> 00:32:52,850 need to continue to pay attention. 567 00:32:52,850 --> 00:32:56,260 To live in Right Relationship takes effort and practice. 568 00:32:56,260 --> 00:32:58,140 As a religious community, all of us 569 00:32:58,140 --> 00:33:00,010 here must be committed to staying engaged 570 00:33:00,010 --> 00:33:03,150 with one another, to listen carefully to one another, 571 00:33:03,150 --> 00:33:05,740 to remain curious and open to learning about the ways 572 00:33:05,740 --> 00:33:10,130 our words and actions impact those around us. 573 00:33:10,130 --> 00:33:11,965 This work can be challenging. 574 00:33:11,965 --> 00:33:13,800 It requires that sometimes we let 575 00:33:13,800 --> 00:33:16,460 go of our need to be right, and instead 576 00:33:16,460 --> 00:33:19,690 embrace a state of unknowing. 577 00:33:19,690 --> 00:33:24,882 But this is the work our faith calls us to do. 578 00:33:24,882 --> 00:33:27,440 Barb Greve: To be in Right Relationship means 579 00:33:27,440 --> 00:33:30,320 we have to be forgiving when we make mistakes 580 00:33:30,320 --> 00:33:33,730 and trust the best intentions of those around us. 581 00:33:33,730 --> 00:33:35,920 Because we are human and fallible, 582 00:33:35,920 --> 00:33:37,610 we can also trust that there will 583 00:33:37,610 --> 00:33:40,190 be times when we make mistakes. 584 00:33:40,190 --> 00:33:41,780 This is OK. 585 00:33:41,780 --> 00:33:44,260 Being in Right Relationship also means 586 00:33:44,260 --> 00:33:48,390 that-- at times-- admitting that we don't know everything. 587 00:33:48,390 --> 00:33:52,140 It might even mean apologizing for saying or doing something 588 00:33:52,140 --> 00:33:56,000 that we didn't realize would hurt someone else. 589 00:33:56,000 --> 00:34:00,210 A simple acknowledgement of the situation is pure gold. 590 00:34:00,210 --> 00:34:03,270 In my opinion, it diffuses tension 591 00:34:03,270 --> 00:34:06,030 and makes people feel that they have been heard, 592 00:34:06,030 --> 00:34:09,610 respected, and understood. 593 00:34:09,610 --> 00:34:11,540 You can always find us because we'll 594 00:34:11,540 --> 00:34:15,679 be wearing these bright orange shirts. 595 00:34:15,679 --> 00:34:19,489 Our phone number is in your program book and the GA app. 596 00:34:19,489 --> 00:34:22,840 And Our Office Hours Are 11:00 Am To 2:00 PM 597 00:34:22,840 --> 00:34:28,199 in the chaplain's office, Convention Center room 550B. 598 00:34:28,199 --> 00:34:31,340 Remember that we are here to help you directly 599 00:34:31,340 --> 00:34:33,840 address each other, and we will help facilitate 600 00:34:33,840 --> 00:34:37,300 direct conversations if you feel like your relationship has 601 00:34:37,300 --> 00:34:39,120 been broken. 602 00:34:39,120 --> 00:34:41,860 Our team this year is led by Raziq Brown, 603 00:34:41,860 --> 00:34:44,780 member of the First Jefferson Unitarian Universalist Church 604 00:34:44,780 --> 00:34:48,210 in Fort Worth, Texas, an avid writer and a Smart Church 605 00:34:48,210 --> 00:34:51,480 consultant for the UUA southern region, 606 00:34:51,480 --> 00:34:53,989 and myself, Mr. Barb Greve, interim director 607 00:34:53,989 --> 00:34:56,570 of religious education to the Unitarian Universalist 608 00:34:56,570 --> 00:34:58,820 congregation of Atlanta, Georgia, 609 00:34:58,820 --> 00:35:00,820 member of the Starr King School for the Ministry 610 00:35:00,820 --> 00:35:03,260 Board of Trustees, and co-founder 611 00:35:03,260 --> 00:35:05,860 of TRUUsT-- Transgender Religious Unitarian 612 00:35:05,860 --> 00:35:08,910 Universalists Together. 613 00:35:08,910 --> 00:35:12,020 We are delighted to have the following wonderful folks 614 00:35:12,020 --> 00:35:15,200 on our team this year- Meghan Cefalu, 615 00:35:15,200 --> 00:35:17,470 Assistant Minister for Congregational Engagement 616 00:35:17,470 --> 00:35:20,520 and Pastoral Care at the First Unitarian Society in Newton, 617 00:35:20,520 --> 00:35:24,790 Massachusetts; Ben Gabel, Office Administrator at Northwest 618 00:35:24,790 --> 00:35:27,740 Unitarian Universalist Church in Southfield, Michigan 619 00:35:27,740 --> 00:35:30,880 and a lay leader at Birmingham Unitarian Church in Bloomfield 620 00:35:30,880 --> 00:35:33,910 Hills, Michigan; Elandria Williams, member 621 00:35:33,910 --> 00:35:36,220 of the Tennessee Valley UU Church, 622 00:35:36,220 --> 00:35:38,690 who is on the UUA Presidential Search Committee 623 00:35:38,690 --> 00:35:42,720 and on the advisory committee for the Fahs Collaborative. 624 00:35:42,720 --> 00:35:44,920 Elandria also works on the Highlander Research 625 00:35:44,920 --> 00:35:48,900 and Education team; Halcyon Westall, Assistant Director 626 00:35:48,900 --> 00:35:51,610 at the Fahs Collaborative-- a Laboratory for Leaders 627 00:35:51,610 --> 00:35:54,380 in Faith and Learning based at Meadville Lombard Theological 628 00:35:54,380 --> 00:35:55,810 School; 629 00:35:55,810 --> 00:35:58,580 Tessie Mandeville, Palliative Care Chaplain in Atlanta, 630 00:35:58,580 --> 00:36:01,600 Georgia and-- until recently-- the pastoral care coordinator 631 00:36:01,600 --> 00:36:04,740 at the UU Congregation of Atlanta, Georgia; 632 00:36:04,740 --> 00:36:07,640 Elizabeth Mount from the UU congregation of Asheville, 633 00:36:07,640 --> 00:36:10,240 North Carolina and a first year seminarian at Meadville need 634 00:36:10,240 --> 00:36:14,870 the Lombard; Lisa Bovee-Kemper, Associate Minister at the UU 635 00:36:14,870 --> 00:36:17,970 Congregation of Asheville, North Carolina and very active 636 00:36:17,970 --> 00:36:27,500 in the Moral Monday movement; Ila Klion, from Lauderhill, 637 00:36:27,500 --> 00:36:29,500 Florida and a member of the Church of the Larger 638 00:36:29,500 --> 00:36:32,590 Fellowship, Ila is a member of the GA Planning Committee 639 00:36:32,590 --> 00:36:37,340 and our liaison to that committee; 640 00:36:37,340 --> 00:36:39,970 Phoebe Masterson-Eckhart, member of the First Unitarian 641 00:36:39,970 --> 00:36:43,040 Universalist Society, San Francisco and one of our Youth 642 00:36:43,040 --> 00:36:49,200 Caucus chaplains; and-- last but not least-- 643 00:36:49,200 --> 00:36:51,940 Oliver Evans from the UU Church of Akron, Ohio 644 00:36:51,940 --> 00:36:59,750 and our other youth chaplain. 645 00:36:59,750 --> 00:37:01,440 We are here to serve you. 646 00:37:01,440 --> 00:37:04,570 Find us on our office hours, call us, or grab us any time 647 00:37:04,570 --> 00:37:07,364 we're wearing our orange shirts. 648 00:37:07,364 --> 00:37:20,810 [APPLAUSE] 649 00:37:20,810 --> 00:37:22,100 Jim Key: They do good work. 650 00:37:22,100 --> 00:37:22,972 We thank them. 651 00:37:22,972 --> 00:37:24,180 How's the Twitter feed going? 652 00:37:24,180 --> 00:37:26,440 I've just gone totally dead. 653 00:37:26,440 --> 00:37:27,696 How's it going? 654 00:37:27,696 --> 00:37:29,010 Are we tweeting out there? 655 00:37:29,010 --> 00:37:38,540 Excellent. 656 00:37:38,540 --> 00:37:45,160 We have one singular item of business for tonight 657 00:37:45,160 --> 00:37:47,090 that requires the delegates to vote, 658 00:37:47,090 --> 00:37:49,780 is the adoption of the Rules of Procedure 659 00:37:49,780 --> 00:37:51,610 for this General Assembly. 660 00:37:51,610 --> 00:37:53,990 So start fumbling for those yellow voting cards, 661 00:37:53,990 --> 00:37:56,950 you're going to need them in a bit. 662 00:37:56,950 --> 00:37:59,420 And you governance wonks, you listen up. 663 00:37:59,420 --> 00:38:00,740 This is important. 664 00:38:00,740 --> 00:38:04,280 The proposed Rules of Procedure can be found on pages 84 665 00:38:04,280 --> 00:38:08,120 through 86 of the Final Agenda of the Program Book. 666 00:38:08,120 --> 00:38:10,190 These rules will govern our consideration 667 00:38:10,190 --> 00:38:12,840 of and voting upon the business items that 668 00:38:12,840 --> 00:38:16,060 come before us during our general sessions together. 669 00:38:16,060 --> 00:38:19,100 The rules are largely the same as in previous years. 670 00:38:19,100 --> 00:38:21,110 There are a couple of rules that I 671 00:38:21,110 --> 00:38:23,880 want to direct your attention to. 672 00:38:23,880 --> 00:38:26,100 They challenge questions every year. 673 00:38:26,100 --> 00:38:29,760 Please note that Rule 5 provides that no amendments 674 00:38:29,760 --> 00:38:33,750 to a business resolution, a bylaw change, or a rule change 675 00:38:33,750 --> 00:38:36,540 will be in order unless submitted for consideration 676 00:38:36,540 --> 00:38:39,150 at the mini-assembly for that item. 677 00:38:39,150 --> 00:38:40,930 So you want to pay attention to the agenda 678 00:38:40,930 --> 00:38:43,510 and when those mini-assemblies occur. 679 00:38:43,510 --> 00:38:46,420 Also please note that Rule 2 provides 680 00:38:46,420 --> 00:38:50,180 that unless the Association's bylaws otherwise requires, 681 00:38:50,180 --> 00:38:52,750 action on all matters will be decided 682 00:38:52,750 --> 00:38:55,970 by uncounted show of voting cards 683 00:38:55,970 --> 00:38:59,150 or by an uncounted standing vote. 684 00:38:59,150 --> 00:39:02,200 A vote will be counted only in two instances. 685 00:39:02,200 --> 00:39:04,390 If there's a doubt about the outcome of a vote 686 00:39:04,390 --> 00:39:06,572 I will call for a count. 687 00:39:06,572 --> 00:39:09,890 A count will also be taken if so requested by delegate 688 00:39:09,890 --> 00:39:14,264 and if 99 other delegates join the request. 689 00:39:14,264 --> 00:39:15,680 In either instance, the count will 690 00:39:15,680 --> 00:39:17,930 be made by the tellers who are present on the floor 691 00:39:17,930 --> 00:39:20,150 of the assembly and they are wearing 692 00:39:20,150 --> 00:39:24,570 those highly fashionable and very visible vests. 693 00:39:24,570 --> 00:39:25,070 Hi, Denise. 694 00:39:25,070 --> 00:39:26,860 How are you? 695 00:39:26,860 --> 00:39:30,660 In addition, Rule 7 provides that separate microphones 696 00:39:30,660 --> 00:39:34,010 will be designated as "pro" and "con" 697 00:39:34,010 --> 00:39:38,530 for discussion of proposed bylaw amendments, rules, resolutions, 698 00:39:38,530 --> 00:39:39,850 or actions. 699 00:39:39,850 --> 00:39:44,570 The pro microphone is up front on your right. 700 00:39:44,570 --> 00:39:49,200 The con microphone is up front on your left. 701 00:39:49,200 --> 00:39:51,150 There's also an amendment microphone 702 00:39:51,150 --> 00:39:55,160 which has been placed at the front of the arena over here. 703 00:39:55,160 --> 00:39:58,120 And procedural microphone which has been placed immediately 704 00:39:58,120 --> 00:40:00,930 in front of me, there. 705 00:40:00,930 --> 00:40:03,840 Please note that the points of personal privilege and points 706 00:40:03,840 --> 00:40:07,730 of information must be made from the procedural mic, 707 00:40:07,730 --> 00:40:11,730 not from the pro mic or the con mic. 708 00:40:11,730 --> 00:40:15,560 But this way, only delegates may speak from the microphones 709 00:40:15,560 --> 00:40:19,250 except by express permission of the Moderator, 710 00:40:19,250 --> 00:40:21,120 and that would be me. 711 00:40:21,120 --> 00:40:23,910 I strongly urge those of you who are attending General Assembly 712 00:40:23,910 --> 00:40:25,990 General Sessions for the first time 713 00:40:25,990 --> 00:40:28,180 to read the Rules of Procedure. 714 00:40:28,180 --> 00:40:31,950 Particularly look at Rule 6 on page 84 of the Rules, 715 00:40:31,950 --> 00:40:35,260 so that you understand the time limits in effect. 716 00:40:35,260 --> 00:40:37,500 No person may speak on any motion 717 00:40:37,500 --> 00:40:39,260 for more than two minutes. 718 00:40:39,260 --> 00:40:41,590 And the timers do not lie. 719 00:40:41,590 --> 00:40:43,930 30 minutes is the time allowed for discussion 720 00:40:43,930 --> 00:40:47,730 of any proposed bylaw amendment, rule change, resolution, 721 00:40:47,730 --> 00:40:50,450 or action on a report that is on or admitted 722 00:40:50,450 --> 00:40:52,535 to the final agenda. 723 00:40:52,535 --> 00:40:55,336 You'll be tested on this, at midnight. 724 00:40:55,336 --> 00:40:56,970 Before proceeding with our business, 725 00:40:56,970 --> 00:40:59,480 I want to introduce you to Tom Bean, our legal counsel 726 00:40:59,480 --> 00:41:00,610 and parliamentarian. 727 00:41:00,610 --> 00:41:07,590 And he is standing on my left here. 728 00:41:07,590 --> 00:41:09,870 So we're good? 729 00:41:09,870 --> 00:41:12,690 Tom Bean: We're good. 730 00:41:12,690 --> 00:41:15,190 Jim Key: Will the Vice Moderator make the appropriate motion 731 00:41:15,190 --> 00:41:19,920 with respect to the Rules of Procedure? 732 00:41:19,920 --> 00:41:22,460 Donna Harrison: Moved that the Rules of Procedure 733 00:41:22,460 --> 00:41:26,870 of this General Assembly, as set forth in full on pages 84 734 00:41:26,870 --> 00:41:34,150 through 86 of the Final Agenda be adopted. 735 00:41:34,150 --> 00:41:36,170 Jim Key: Is there a second? 736 00:41:36,170 --> 00:41:38,130 Oh good. 737 00:41:38,130 --> 00:41:43,010 Does anybody want to discuss the Rules? 738 00:41:43,010 --> 00:41:46,420 There being no discussion of the Rules of Procedure, 739 00:41:46,420 --> 00:41:49,650 discussion is now closed and a vote would be in order. 740 00:41:49,650 --> 00:41:53,040 All those in favor of adopting the Rules of Procedure, 741 00:41:53,040 --> 00:41:55,390 raise those yellow cards. 742 00:41:55,390 --> 00:41:57,510 Oh, I think this is going to carry. 743 00:41:57,510 --> 00:41:59,330 Cards down. 744 00:41:59,330 --> 00:42:01,800 All those opposed. 745 00:42:01,800 --> 00:42:07,520 And do we have anybody in the off-site queue? 746 00:42:07,520 --> 00:42:13,170 We might, but I don't think they can overcome the votes. 747 00:42:13,170 --> 00:42:16,480 So I declare that the Rules are approved. 748 00:42:16,480 --> 00:42:28,720 So the motion carries. 749 00:42:28,720 --> 00:42:31,600 There being no further business to come before us in accordance 750 00:42:31,600 --> 00:42:34,030 with the schedule set forth in your program book, 751 00:42:34,030 --> 00:42:37,070 I declare that this General Session of the General Assembly 752 00:42:37,070 --> 00:42:41,920 Shall Stand In Recess Until 9:15 tomorrow morning. 753 00:42:41,920 --> 00:42:52,119