First Unitarian Congregation of Ottawa
Enter, rejoice and come in!
A collage of photos from the First Unitarian Congregation of Ottawa

Spiritual Exploration

Enjoy the opportunity to enhance your understanding of the self and others through a variety of programs. You can explore your spiritual journey physically and mentally and celebrate your spiritual dimensions with others.

For more information, about these programs, contact the church office at 613-725-1066.

WINTER, 2010: FOR NEWCOMERS AND NEW MEMBERS

INTRODUCING OURSELVES
Tuesdays, January 5 - January 26, 7:00 p.m.

Are you a new to UU-ism? Click here to find out more about this program led by Rev. John Marsh.

MAPMAKING
Tuesdays, February 9, 16, and 23; March 2 and 9,
7:00 - 9:30 p.m.

Mapmaking is a five-session guided experiential program designed specifically for new members. This program offers activities and opportunities to help you clarify your spiritual journey, explore your potential or actual role in the Congregation, and build significant relationships with others.  Co-led by Terry Kimmel, Joan Turner and John Harrison. Please register by February 7 by contacting Joan Turner at adultlearning@firstunitarianottawa.ca,

WINTER, 2010: LEARN...KNOW...REFLECT...APPLY

MEDITATION AND CONTEMPLATIVE PRACTICE
Wednesdays, beginning January 6
7:30 p.m., Room 4

This weekly meeting for spiritual deepening will include instruction in the traditional mindfulness form of meditation adapted for contemporary situations.  Short readings on meditation practice (not doctrine) will be briefly discussed.  On the first week of each month, the group will be led by Rev. John Marsh in a discussion evening on a series of themes.  No incense will be used. Facilitated by Clea Derwent. Newcomers welcome at any time. No fee.              

INTEGRAL PHILOSOPHY DISCUSSION GROUP
Every other Saturday, January 9 - June 26
9:30 - 11:00 a.m.
Room #8

Can one be spiritual and rational? The wisdoms of the major faiths were all developed before Newton, Freud, Darwin, and Einstein.  How would Buddha and Jesus have taught differently if they had known the earth was round and that evolution is taking place? Valerie Cousins and Dale Wilson facilitate a discussion that explores spirituality and enlightenment based on the works of the philosopher, Ken Wilber. 

A DISCUSSION ON BROKENNESS
Monday, January 18
7:30 p.m., Room 2

What does brokenness mean to you? Were there times in your life when unexpected blows left you feeling ‘broken’’? You are invited to join Paula Theetge and Rev. John Marsh for a discussion of the many ways brokenness manifests itself and what we can learn from those painful situations.

SINGING MEDITATION
Sundays, February 28, March 28, April 25, and May 30,
4:00-5:00p.m.

Taste the bliss of a song sung deeply into your soul.  In this class, facilitated by Nicky Duenkel, songs are alternated with silent intervals for contemplation.  Songs are drawn from a variety of spiritual paths, including Earth-centred, Sufi, Hindu, Christian, Jewish and others.  You need not be an experienced singer to participate, as songs are short and easily learned.  

A DISCUSSION ON JUSTICE
Monday, March 22
7:30 p.m., Room 2

What does justice mean to you?  Are you concerned about injustice in its many forms at home and abroard?  What have you done to challenge injustice in your life? Join Barry Read, Worship Associate, and Rev. John Marsh in discussing your views on this important subject. which will be the theme of a service in April. 

WINTER, 2010: YOUR BODY, YOURSELF

OUR WHOLE LIVES (OWL) SEXUALITY EDUCATION FOR YOUNG ADULTS (ages 18-35)
Saturday, January 23, 8:30 a.m.- 6:30 p.m.
Room 2

Trained facilitators will lead participants through experiential learning activities, which are sometimes serious, sometimes fun. The first day- long workshop will include: Young Adults and Sexuality, Mind and Body, Keeping Your Body Healthy. $20 or pay what you can; price includes workshop, lunch, refreshments, and supplies. Please register by contacting Joan Turner at adultlearning@firstunitarianottawa.ca

OUR WHOLE LIVES (OWL) SEXUALITY EDUCATION FOR ADULTS

Perhaps you're a parent and want to be able to talk more easily about sexuality with your child. Maybe you want to be up to date and better informed. Grounded in a holistic view of sexuality, OWL helps participants clarify their values, build interpersonal skills, and understand the spiritual, emotional, physical and social aspects of sexuality.

Sampler Adult OWL Sessions
Meet the facilitators, engage in a typical learning activity, and ask questions. No need to pre-register. Join us on one of these dates:

  • Wednesday March 24,7:00-8:30 p.m., Room 2
  • Sunday, March 28, 12:15 - 1: 45 p.m., Room 2

Adult OWL Classes
Saturday, April 10 to Saturday, May 8

The class schedule is as follows:

  • Saturday, April 10, 9:00 a.m.-4:00 p.m.
  • Wednesdays, April 14, 21, and 28, 7:00-9:30 p.m.
  • Saturday, May 8, 9:00 a.m.-4:00 p.m.

$60 for the full course or pay what you can (cost should not be a barrier to participation). Supplies, lunch and beverages on Saturdays are included. Please register by April 8 by contacting Joan Turner at adultlearning@firstunitarianottawa.ca

EMPOWER DANCE
Wednesdays, 7:30 - 9:00 p.m.
Resumes on January 6
Fellowship Hall

Dance, stretch, move, and meditate to all kinds of music. Fee: Suggested gift of $3/evening to the church.

YOGA FOR SENIORS AND EVERYONE ELSE
Fridays, 10:15-11:15 a.m.
January 8 - March 26 (no class on March 19)
First week free!

Instructor Linda Percy welcomes seniors and others to come and enjoy the social, spiritual, and physical benefits of yoga. $135 for 14 weeks or $10 drop-in.

FIBROMYALGIA SUPPORT GROUP
Sunday, February 7, 12:15-1:00 p.m.
Room #2

An organizational meeting for anyone who has fibromyalgia or who may be caring for someone who does. The purpose of this first meeting is to brainstorm on how to proceed as a group to pool our knowledge, resourses, and to support each other.

ONGOING PROGRAMS

CHALICE GROUPS: These small groups meet twice a month, using a structured format to explore issues related to spiritual growth and UU. A service component is included to keep the groups from becoming too inward-looking.

If you’re interested in joining a chalice group or becoming a facilitator, please contact the congregational office at 613-725-1066.