Thank you Holy Week

With all the losses around, we are buoyed by so many glimpses of love, conviction, and coming to hope - - 2019 Holy Week images...

Your Stepping Stones to Keystone

MAY OPPORTUNITIES FOR INQUIRERS:  Maybe you have sensed your heart opening to want your discipleship to be more officially part of the Keystone community witness?  Join Pastor Lauren Wednesday evenings in May to discuss joining Keystone UCC. Membership is one of the ways that we formally celebrate and recognize the connections we share!  But the gift, is that we all get inspired as we hear each others stories.  In May worship services, you can offer your "Stepping Stones to Keystone" to share what led you to this community.  Email Lauren at lauren.cannon@keystoneseattle.org to make a time to meet up on a Wednesday eve (May 8, 15, or 22) to chat before the book study.   Keystone folks can gather at a corner of the Wallingford Farmers Market that returns Wednesday, May 15 (3pm to 7pm) and runs every Wednesday, through late September. Located in Meridian Park at the corner of Meridian Avenue N. and N. 50th Street; across from Keystone UCC, through the Good Shepherd Center and Tilth gardens. There may be a group of new members recognized on May 26 or as they proclaim home in this place!

Keystone is Standing with ICS Workers ~ from March 20 delegation

Housing Bills... Environmental Bills... Consumer Bills... Here we go!

Join us for services Worship Every Sunday – 10:30am All Are Welcome! Sunday, April 14, 2019 Palm Sunday Rev. Rich Gamble, preaching Rev. Lauren Cannon Pastor Yuki Schwartz, away in Atlanta at American Academy of Religion; and to Chicago to defend her dissertation on April 15. Theme: Justice Scripture: Luke 19:28-40 Music Leader: Elliot Kraber Accompaniment: Yigit Kolat Greeter: OPEN Reader: Eliza Usher: Dan O. Communion: Lauren & Rich Coffee Hour: Michelle & Christian Children's Ministry: Lead by Anita and Danielle, the children will help lead our Palm Sunday parade by processing with their posters, inviting folks (from pews) to take big kale leaves, to lift our voices together. GO YUKI GO: Yuki will defend her dissertation before her doctoral committee on Monday, April 15, at 1 p.m. CDT in Garrett-Evangelical Theological Seminary in Evanston, Ill. Please send good vibes and prayers for calm and courage as she completes her nine-year journey toward her PhD in theology and ethics. HELP US 'HATCH 'A PLAN: As we prepare for Easter Sunday fun for our little ones, we're welcoming donations of filled eggs for annual egg hunt on the Keystone lawn (during coffee hour on Easter Sunday, April 21). All are welcome to bring a few eggs filled with stickers or treats etc. to the church office before April 21, or put them in the box by the coat rack area of the Narthex on Easter Morning! We're egg-cited to see what you'll bring in, and will be shell-shocked if you egg-nore our call for help. Don't whisk it! INVESTIGATING SOLAR FOR KEYSTONE ROOF: We will be doing an on-site solar project evaluation on April 14 at 1pm with a representative from Artisan Electric. Families: Pick up Children's Activity pages & crayons on the welcome table every week as you come in to worship (based on the scripture of the day.)  There are two types: younger children & older children.  Children of any age are always part of worship & welcome! Children's Ministry with Anita – program every Sunday 10:00am- 12pm. More info at http://www.keystoneseattle.org/children-youth/ Sermons Available Online: If you missed a Sunday, were ​downstairs at Sunday School, or just want to hear a sermon again, JLP Intern, ​Danielle Walker, maintains and updates our ​online audio archive​ where you can listen to or download past sermons. Click HERE to listen, and please share. ​Thank you, Danielle! NEXT WEEK Sunday, April 21, 2019 Easter Sunday Rev. Rich Gamble, preaching Rev. Lauren Cannon Pastor Yuki Schwartz, away at Cliff's D.O.C. church in Bremerton. Music Leader: Elliot Kraber Accompaniment: Yigit Kolat Greeter: OPEN Reader: Danielle Usher: Rita Communion: Lauren & Rich Coffee Hour: Jim Children's Ministry: Anita Easter morning egg camouflager lead: Caleb 'TAKE' NOTICE: Sunday, April 28 during Coffee Hour will be our final Take 5 for Advocacy sharing for the current legislative session, which ends that day in Olympia. Many thanks to our mighty JLP Jubilee intern Barbara Anderson, for giving us guidance and gumption to raise our voices on many very important issues these past few months.  Barb's work goes on, as she continues to serve this year at Seattle King County Coalition on Homelessness.  Learn more about the Jubilee program here - http://justiceleadership.org/jubilee.html; and about the Seattle King County Coalition on Homelessness here -  http://homelessinfo.org MAY OPPORTUNITIES FOR INQUIRERS:  Maybe you have sensed your heart opening toward sharing more publicly why you want your discipleship to be part of the Keystone community witness?  Join Pastor Lauren Wednesday evenings in May to discuss joining Keystone UCC. It can be one of the ways that we formally celebrate and recognize the connections we share!  Email Lauren at lauren.cannon@keystoneseattle.org to make a time to meet up on a Wednesday eve in May before the book study.  Keystone folks can gather at a corner of the Wallingford Farmers Market that returns Wednesday, May 15 (3pm to 7pm) and runs every Wednesday, through late September. Located in Meridian Park at the corner of Meridian Avenue N. and N. 50th Street; across from Keystone UCC, through the Good Shepherd Center and Tilth gardens. There may be a group who shares words in worship on May 26 or June 2, to join Keystone!  Upcoming Events  Sunday, April 14 – Palm Sunday Children lead procession @ Keystone UCC During Worship Tuesday, April 16 – Table Turning Action @ ICE offices in Tukwilla 12-1pm Thursday, April 18 – Maundy Thursday Supper @ Keystone UCC – Battson Hall (downstairs) 5:30pm Friday, April 19 – Good Friday Service of Tenebrae @ Keystone UCC 7pm Sunday, April 21 – Easter Sunday Worship (w/Egg Hunt for the little ones after service) @ Keystone UCC 10:30am Saturday April 27 & Sunday April 28 – Magnolia Chorale  Voices Raised @ Magnolia Lutheran Church, 2414 31st Ave. West 7:30pm on 4/27; 2:00pm on 4/28 Saturday, April 27 – Pacific Northwest Conference Annual Meeting @ First Congregational Church of Bellevue, 11061 NE 2nd St., Bellevue 9am - 5pm   Friday, May 10 thru Sunday May 12 – UCC Conference Women's Weekend @ Pilgrim Firs RSVP @ HERE Wednesdays, May 8, 25, 22, 29 – Bible Book Study “The Story Luke Tells; Luke’s Unique Witness to the Gospel” by Justo Gonzalez @ Keystone UCC 7-8pm   ** See below for details on these and other events related to life in our community ** For Sandie Schumacher's husband Bill: As he continues to recover from pneumonia and congestive heart failure. Sandie says thank you for all the prayers! For Dick Becker: As he continues to maneuver the balancing act of his rehab and staying infection-free in his knee surgery recovery; while our congratulations go out to Kate Becker on her job change, now working with Dow Constantine's office for the Arts & Culture. For Jenn Hagedorn: Former JLP Intern Jenn will graduate in May from Union theological Seminary in NYC.  She is also progressing through the process toward ordination with the Pacific Northwest United Church of Christ.  Rev. Lauren is teaching an independent study class with Jenn this spring, and part of each of their meetings are devoted to preparing her ordination paper and for Jenn's interviews. Her first meeting with the Committee on Ministry was April 11.  Jenn welcomes all our good thoughts as she will send them her final paper on May 1 and then interview to hopefully be approved for ordination, pending a call.  Jenn is doing her field placement at Middle Church in NYC this year. Keep up the good thoughts with Jenn! Maundy Thursday Supper April 18 @ 5:30 pm at Keystone (Battson Hall) ALL ARE WELCOME to join us for Maundy Thursday, as we share our communion sacrament around the table. 'Maundy' means God’s commandment to love one another. Join Rev. Lauren, Rev. Rich, & Elliot, for Marilyn's fresh local salmon, and all the special potluck dishes that you might wish to bring, as we recall the last week of Jesus’ life.  We'll enact Jesus' last supper with disciples, when he offered self-giving love: agape. Our children will read the story of how Jesus tenderly washed the disciples feet, even as he was about to be betrayed.  Children offer a hand washing station in preparation for our meal. In addition to our feast and singing, we will share dessert, and there will be prayer stations for contemplation. Come in to community, as we prepare for Easter, singing our hope and prayer "may they know we are Christians by our love." The Thursday evening schedule: 5:30pm: Children offer hand washing station 6pm: Communion liturgy 6:15pm: Dinner 7pm: Dessert potluck Volunteers are still needed! Can you help with: Set up help @ 3:30-5:30 pm Bring a dish or dessert to share @ 5:30 -7 pm. Clean up help @ 7-7:30 pm Sign up at clipboard by coffee pot or email Lauren at lauren.cannon@keystoneseattle.org Thank you! Take 5 Advocacy Action & Update Barb, Stan and Rich V. led a powerful 'Take 5' discussion last Sunday! Here is some of what they shared .... We Support All of These Bills: FOR EACH OF THE FOLLOWING, PLEASE CALL AND LEAVE A MESSAGE FOR THE GOVERNOR, YOUR SENATOR AND BOTH REPRESENTATIVES – HOTLINE: 1-800-562-6000 Or Send comments by bringing up the bill number at lhttps://app.leg.wa.gov/pbc/ Affordable Housing Bills: • HB1453/Macri and SB5600/Pedersen and Frockt - Concerning residential tenant protections. – Eviction Reform. Both of these bills are moving! Passed to House Rules committee on April 9, for second reading. (Please send a note to pass out of rules committee to the floor) • HB 1440/Frame, Tarlton/Macri- Providing longer notice of rent increases. From 30 to 60 Days’ Notice. This bill passed out of Senate Rules and now on the floor for a vote. (Please support) • HB1603/SB5684/Valdez, Macri, Pollet,Tarleton,Frame - We want to Strengthen Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF). Undo harsh sanctions and time limits that deprive families of needed support. This bill was placed on Second Reading by the House Rules Committee on 4/11. (Send note to Pass out of Committee) Immigration: • HB1815/SB5497/ Macri, Frame, Pollet – This bill protects the privacy and civil rights of Washington residents by prohibiting local law enforcement from questioning about immigration status, notifying ICE that a noncitizen is in custody, and detaining someone for civil immigration enforcement. This bill is in The House Rules Committee to Review. Please send a note to your Senator and representatives and copy the governor with a note: "As a person of faith and a member of Faith Action Network and Keystone UCC, I urge you to support this Keep Washington Working bill." Environmental Bills: • HB 1110/SB5412 - Reducing the greenhouse gas emissions associated with transportation fuels. This bill is DEAD – So Sad  ` ` • SB 5116/HB1211 - Supporting Washington's clean energy economy and transitioning to a clean, affordable, and reliable energy future – Rules committee amended on 4/11 – not adopted (PLEASE SEND A SUPPORT THIS BILL TO YOUR SENATOR AND REPRESENTATIVES and copy the Governor) • SB5293/HB1257 - Concerning energy efficiency. - In Senate Rules Committee for second reading 0n 4/11. (Please send a note to pass out of committee to the Senate floor) Consumer Protection Bills: • HB1531 - Concerning medical debt. –in the Senate Rules Committee on 4/11 for second reading (Please send a note to pass out of committee) This bill addresses the number one cause of bankruptcy in the United States – medical debt. Jinkins’ bill provides protections for consumers to help prevent medical debt from spiraling out of control. These protections include lowering the rate on pre-judgment interest, prohibiting health care providers from selling the debt to collections agencies for at least 120 days after the first billing, and ensuring patients are informed about the opportunity to apply for charity care. • HB1602 - Concerning consumer debt. – Passed in the House and is in the Senate Rules Committee but not moving (Please send a note to pass out of committee) Spons ored by Rep. Kristine Reeves (D-Federal Way), is about making sure consumer debt doesn’t keep working families in poverty. It provides relief from high post-judgment interest rates, and protects people from being left destitute by wage garnishment. • HB1730 - Concerning the effect of payment or acknowledgement made after the expiration of a limitations period. – On Senate Rules Committee calendar floor for a vote but not moving very fast (Please send a note to pass out of committee) Sponsored by Rep. Amy Walen (D-Kirkland), ensures that the 10-year statute of limitations on debt cannot be revived by unscrupulous debt collectors. Known as “zombie debt,” this problem can plague consumers who think they have long since paid off or settled a debt, only to find it comes back to cause them problems. THANK YOU KEYSTONE FOR SPEAKING UP! – Barbara Anderson   Farmers Market & Book Study Gospel of Luke                                                             This May, join us for a Bible Study of the Gospel of Luke, combined with some pre-meeting outdoor fun at our local Farmers Market, Wednesdays in May, 7-8pm at Keystone. We'll gather to study “The Story Luke Tells; Luke’s Unique Witness to the Gospel” by Justo Gonzalez. This year, the world church lectionary (Year C) offers us a portion of the Gospel of Luke almost every Sunday until November. Purchase your own copy or pick up one at church office. Wednesday, May 8 Introduction Ch. 1- Luke and the History of Humankind Ch. 2- Luke and the History of Israel Wednesday, May 15 Ch. 3- Luke and the Great Reversal Ch. 4- Luke and Gender Wednesday, May 22 Ch. 5- Luke and Salvation Ch. 6- Food and Drink in Luke’s Theology Wednesday, May 29 Ch. 7- Luke and Worship Ch. 8- Luke and Holy Spirit & Conclusion: Luke’s Open Invitation And meet up beforehand at the Wallingford Farmers Market (just across 50th St. at the Meridian Park), as you are able! Contact Pastor Lauren for more information: lauren.cannon@keystoneseattle.org   Good Friday Opportunity @ St. Paul's UCC in Ballard In case your crew seeks an earlier time to celebrate Good Friday (rather than our 7 pm evening opportunity) GOOD FRIDAY OPPORTUNITY, APRIL 19 Noon to 3:00 pm – Art Exhibit on display 1:00 pm – brief Good Friday liturgy and “How Are the Children?” Part I (41 minutes) 2:00 pm – brief Good Friday liturgy and “How Are the Children” Part II (29 minutes) Art Exhibit – Loren McGrail will be present during this time! Rev. Loren McGrail is a minister, theologian, and poet/artist who served the YWCA of Palestine as one of the United Church of Christ Global Ministries mission co-workers in Israel/Palestine. Her work focused on advocacy and she was the coordinator of the Fabric of Our Lives Project which calls attention to Palestinian refugees. She served in this capacity for five years and is the creator of this art exhibit. Her art---Assemblage, and writings reflect her witness in the land all call holy. She uses found and broken objects to make art in response to the events that affect her and the communities she has served. Follow the numbered exhibits – One through Sixteen – as a Lenten pilgrimage, a Via Dolorosa through the lens of the common people of Palestine. UCC video – “How Are the Children?” “Palestinian Children in Israeli Military Detention” In 2017 delegates to the UCC General Synod overwhelmingly passed a Resolution of Witness calling for an end to the ill-treatment of Palestinian children incarcerated in Israeli military prisons. This video addresses this issue and includes personal testimonies from national executive leaders John Dorhauer, Traci Blackmon, James Moos, and the exhibit artist Loren McGrail. This is a two part video with Part I offered at 1:00 pm and Part II at 2:00 pm (See schedule above.) NOTE: this video includes images of children being arrested by heavily armed military personnel. Come for any part of this experience between noon and 3:00 pm. Childcare Echoing the theme of “How Are the Children?” free child care will be offered in the St.. Paul’s nursery from noon to 3:00 pm, with snacks provided. Please RSVP regarding childcare for St. Paul’s to plan on staffing and food: tim@stpucc.org or 206 / 783-6733. St. Paul's United Church of Christ 6512 12th Ave NW Seattle, WA  98107 www.stpucc.org   Magnolia Chorale invite Marilyn Wall and Mary Jeppeson will be singing in and invite all to a performance of the Magnolia Chorale: How can we keep from singing? The Magnolia Chorale spring concert, themed around "Voices Raised", is all about the joy of singing. From the soaring tones of Joy (Hans Bridger Heruth), to new twists in The Gift to be Simple and How Can I Keep from Singing, to the nostalgic melodies of The Sound of Music and Feelin' Groovy, we're creating a joyous celebration of singing...about singing. What could be better? Mark your calendar for one (or both) of the dates listed below and share the joy of voices raised in song!           When:    Saturday, April 27, 2019, 7:30 pm                       Sunday, April 28, 2019, 2:00 pm               Where:   Magnolia Lutheran Church                        2414  31st Ave. W. Seattle, WA 98199 Purchase tickets from Chorale members or from Brown Paper Tickets: https://www.brownpapertickets.com/profile/333526   ICS Creative Liberation Action Report   The workers were extremely brave in their actions, in which they are risking so much, and we were proud to stand alongside them. Stay tuned for more reports.  They were able to get to a negotiation table April 8!  We will stay connected on what is unfolding and what, if anything, we can do to support them. On March 20 Rev. Lauren and Amber (with Faith Action Network) and several faith, labor, and community leaders met with workers who clean chemical waste out of barrels in the South Park neighborhood. The workers were almost all Latino, were all men of color (other than the supervisors, who were all white.)  They face unhealthy working conditions and very low wages. Four years ago, Keystone UCC supported these very workers as they formed a union and received new benefits and safety protections from their multi-national corporate employer, ICS. Recently, the company unilaterally decided to roll back benefits and protections and the workers asked for our help. So for this Wednesday morning meeting, we joined with some other clergy and interfaith leaders, to hear their concerns when they were grabbing a snack in the break room on their mid-morning pause.  Maria from Teamsters knows them well and provided interpretation, as she asked what we might want to highlight, and make a delegation, and we marched with them into their bosses office. Locked out at first, we prayed together until the boss came out, and we delivered the letter expressing community support for these workers and demanding justice.  UCC Annual Meeting in Bellevue Join Rich, Lauren, Yuki, Barb, John & Amber Join the Keystone delegation to this year’s Annual Meeting of the Pacific Northwest Conference! This one-day event will be hosted by First Congregational Church of Bellevue on Saturday, April 27.  We’ll begin at 9am (breakfast items available before) and will finish by 5pm. Let’s just say from the beginning, we won’t have enough time to enjoy each other’s company!  But we will accomplish the business that is urgent and necessary. If we’ve planned things right, there will be a good amount of time for you to connect with those you haven’t seen since last year or may not have met yet. Our theme this year is “Many Gifts, One Spirit” and we will be celebrating the myriad of gifts we bring to our ministry together in this Conference. Every lay leader, every minister, every congregation, has a multitude of unique qualities.  When we gather together as one body, we recognize that we are not alone in our call to serve.  We are joined by the One Spirit that enlivens us all.  When we are in one place together, we see that our ministry is mirrored in other places across our Conference and the depth and breadth of God’s work is obvious.  The Annual Meeting Planning Committee has been working hard for many months to ensure a welcoming space and a meaningful time together.  To register, go to https://bit.ly/2CiuIyh. If you have questions about registration, please reach out to Arlene in the conference office (pncucc@gmail.com or 206-725-8383). Upcoming Sabbatical Time Away for Rev. Rich & Rev. Lauren Dates and an invitation At our 2018 Keystone Congregational Annual Meeting on June 10, our church voted to develop a sabbatical policy, with the goal of renewal for pastors as well as a chance to deepen leadership among congregation members. We reviewed research on the benefits, and a draft policy. It was then decided that our elected leadership would finalize the policy by the end of July, 2018. John Preston (our Moderator) has carried that forward, working with Marilyn Wall (our Treasurer) and Lisa Smith (our Secretary), in consultation with Pastor Rich and Pastor Lauren.  The adopted Keystone UCC Sabbatical Leave Policy is: A Sabbatical Leave is a period of time for the clergy of Keystone UCC to reflect and renew in body and spirit away from the daily obligations of parish life. Renewal periods are not vacations but times for intentional exploration and reflection. It is a time to immerse in God’s life-giving waters, for recharging enthusiasm and creativity for ministry. We add sabbatical policies to our pastors existing call agreements, in order for the entire congregation to become enlivened in continuing to serve God and the world. It is the policy of Keystone UCC to provide paid sabbatical leave to its pastors at a rate of one week per year of service. Pastors are eligible for sabbatical leave after 5 years of service. This is a time for our pastors to innovate, gain knowledge and pursue their interests. This policy contains no additional covenants or requirements. In light of this newly adopted policy, Rev. Rich and Rev. Lauren have scheduled the following: June: Rich takes a couple vacation weeks July 1- August 19: Lauren takes sabbatical + a couple vacation weeks Late September thru October: Rich takes sabbatical. A sabbatical is a time for the pastor to rest, reflect and study. Nourish body and Spirit. Read a lot. Which will then filter back to the congregational in ministry.  It is also a time for the congregation to enrich their church presence by providing the support for the liturgy and other areas of the ministry. We take for granted the functions that the pastors provide, but a sabbatical is our time for enrichment, as we assume some of those functions. Envision members doing the announcements, the call to worship, the prayer, the collection, pastoral care and possibly preach. This is our time to renew, reflect and commit to our faith and our church. As a church, we will plan and call upon the congregation to volunteer where interests lie. We encourage all to please be in touch and let us know about your interests.  Rita and John are now helping plan for Lauren's time away starting July 1.   Rita Peterson - 4/5 Danielle Walker - 4/8 Jonathan Sabo - 4/9 Julia Blackburn - 4/11 Sheri Amundson - 4/14 Nick Lott-Havey - 4/18 Oliver Lott-Havey - 4/26   Here's wishing each of them the happiest of birthdays, from all of us at Keystone UCC!   Keep an eye out here for upcoming Keystone Birthdays!

Fossil Free King County?

Join us for services Worship Every Sunday – 10:30am All Are Welcome! Sunday, March 17, 2019 Second Sunday of Lent Rev. Rich Gamble, preaching Pastor Yuki Schwartz Rev. Lauren Cannon, off (for Mike's Birthday) Theme: Discipleship Scripture: Luke 13:31-35 Music Leader: Elliot Kraber Accompaniment: Yigit Kolat Greeter: OPEN Reader: Arlene Usher: Betty Communion: Rich & Yuki Coffee Hour: Sandie Children's Ministry: Anita LENT BEGINS: On March 10, our first Sunday in Lent, we took in some shards of ancient wisdom.  We were encouraged to cut them out of the bulletin (or any good little verse of choice), and use them in a moment of meditation this week, maybe even memorize them. Joel 2:13: Return to God, who is gracious and merciful, slow to anger, and abounding in steadfast love. Allie takes communion with Rita   Families: Pick up Children's Activity pages & crayons on the welcome table every week as you come in to worship (based on the scripture of the day.)  There are two types: younger children & older children.  Children of any age are always part of worship & welcome! Children's Ministry with Anita – program every Sunday 10:00am- 12pm. More info at http://www.keystoneseattle.org/children-youth/ Sermons Available Online: If you missed a Sunday, were ​downstairs at Sunday School, or just want to hear a sermon again, former JLP Intern, ​Hunter Paulson-Smith,​ has created an ​online audio archive​ where you can listen to them ​ or download them​. Click HERE to listen, and please share. ​Thank you, Hunter! NEXT WEEK Sunday, March 24, 2019 Third Sunday of Lent Rev. Rich Gamble, preaching Rev. Lauren Cannon Pastor Yuki Schwartz, off Music Leader: Elliot Kraber Accompaniment: Yigit Kolat Greeter: OPEN Reader: Christian Usher: Sandie Communion: Rich & Lauren Coffee Hour: O'Neills Children's Ministry: Anita SUPPER SIGN UPS: April's almost here, so be on the look out for Maundy Thursday Supper sign ups, coming soon! WHEN YOU'RE NOT JUST A VISITOR ANYMORE:  For those who have gone through their inquirers stage here at Keystone, and for those just curious about what it means to be an "official" Keystone member, an opportunity is in the works to induct any who wish to officially join the Keystone community. It could be Easter Sunday, April 21. Talk to Rev. Lauren to learn more.   Upcoming Events  Saturday, March 16 – Seattle Labor Chorus Singalong @ Phinney Ridge Lutheran Church, 7500 Greenwood Ave N 7:00-9:00pm Wednesday, March 20 – Support Latinx Workers  @ Industrial Container Services (ICS), 7152 1st Ave S., in South Park 9:30am POSTPONED:  Northwest Pilgrimage, Migrant Justice: Realities & Resistance No longer to be April 9-11. We look forward to announcing rescheduled dates soon Looking ahead through Lent to Holy Week Palm Sunday, April 14  Worship Children lead procession Monday, April 15 Holy Table-Turning action Thursday, April 18 Maundy Thursday - Supper 5:30pm Friday, April 19 Good Friday - Service of Tenebrae 7pm Sunday, April 21 Easter Sunday Worship! (w/Egg Hunt for the little ones)   ** See below for details on these and other events related to life in our community ** For Nell – as she gets relief for challenging infection in her hands and her feet. For Kaaren – as she and Pico are adjusting routines and greeting new caregiver, Loyce. Take 5 Advocacy Action & Update Keystone Friends, thank you!  On Sunday March 10, Barb and Rich V. led us through a "Take 5" for Advocacy work session, and they say our advocacy is making a difference! So let's keep it up for this end-of-season down in Olympia! KEEP ADVOCATING – HB1453/SB5600 & HB1400 Addressing homelessness and the affordable housing crisis has been one of the top priorities for Keystone and lawmakers this year. We’ve seen a dramatic increase in evictions over the last decade. Passing eviction reform is one major step we can take to reduce homelessness in our state. Evictions are a leading cause of homelessness. See HB 1453 and HB 1440. Right now, state law allows landlords to begin the eviction process after three days of a tenant failing to pay rent. This time frame is too short, so HB 1453 will extend the timeline to pay up to 14 days before a landlord can begin the eviction process. HB 1453 passed the House 54-44. SB 5600 passed the Senate 31-15. Yay!! HB 1440 is another bill to move us on a pathway of more housing stability, by requiring landlords in most situations to give 60 days’ written notice for a rent increase instead of 30 days (current law). HB 1440 passed the House 62-36. It is now in the Senate and scheduled for a hearing on March 19th in the Financial Institutions, Economic Development & Trade Committee at 8:00 a.m. NEW TAKE ACTION – HB1603/SB5684 We want to Strengthen Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF).   Undo harsh sanctions and time limits that deprive families of needed support. This is an act revising economic assistance programs by updating standards of need, revising outcome measures and data collected, and reducing barriers to participation. The third reading was passed from the House on Thursday the 7th and moved to the first hearing in the Senate today.  It was sent to the Human Services Reentry & Rehabilitation Committee. Please send a note supporting this bill – send to your senator and to the Committee:   Darneille, Jeannie (D) Chair 237 John A. Cherberg Building (360) 786-7652 Nguyen, Joe (D) Vice Chair 213 John A. Cherberg Building (360) 786-7667 Walsh, Maureen (R) Ranking Member 205 Irv Newhouse Building (360) 786-7630 Cleveland, Annette (D) 220 John A. Cherberg Building (360) 786-7696 O'Ban, Steve (R) 102 Irv Newhouse Building (360) 786-7654 Wilson, Claire (D) 407 Legislative Building (360) 786-7658       THANK YOU KEYSTONE FOR SPEAKING UP! – Barbara Anderson   Justice Leadership Program on hold for 2019-2020 On March 11, Rev. Rich shared this update with our partners among and of the Pacific Northwest Conference of the United Church of Christ.  We look forward to the listening and thinking in the year ahead with all our Keystone folk, who have been at the heart of our seven years of JLP thus far: Greetings, On February 27th 2019 the Advisory Council of the Justice Leadership Program affirmed the recommendation of the staff that the young adult residential program discontinue operations for the year 2019-20. The year will be used to re-imagine a program that will connect young adults with social justice efforts grounded in faith. The Justice Leadership Program has produced in its seven years of operation, an impressive list of graduates, who carry the work of justice into the future. We have learned a great deal in those seven years. We hope to use those insights in the process of developing a program that is a more sustainable melding of our aspirations and our resources. Though the young adult residential program will not be operational next year, the Justice Leadership Program plans on continuing our curriculum project, the Jubilee program and Northwest Pilgrimage. We are sincerely grateful for the ongoing support of the congregations of the Pacific Northwest Conference of the UCC. With Hope, Rich Gamble   Report back from Communities Rising Criminal Justice Forum From Margret Graham: On Thursday, March 7, Communities Rising had an excellent panel presentation on juvenile incarceration presented by Mary Lou Dickerson, who worked on this issue while she was state representative and continues to in retirement; a formerly incarcerated young man who is currently working with an organization to help provide community support for formerly incarcerated people; and Amber Dickson, who is working for FAN in a number of ways, such as providing education to those in prison, making a better re-entry possible, along with other issues that are on the FAN website. I was very moved to talk to two very nice formerly incarcerated men and hear even a little of what they were up against, both in and after prison. I signed up to receive a link for future actions and will forward it on when I receive it.   Help Keystone support Latinx workers From Pastor Lauren:  Friends, can you join me for an hour+ to support a group of Latino workers that our Interfaith Economic Justice Coalition (IEJC) helped support several years ago?  It was at a critical time in their organizing for a union.  Now they are back in a stand-off with their employer.  You will see what tricky work they do, at the margins of our city’s economy, and why some added layers of accompaniment, could really help, at this juncture. Date: Wednesday, March 20 Time: 9:30am Location: Industrial Container Services (ICS), 7152 1st Ave S, Seattle, WA 98108, South Park Quick refresher on the company ICS is that they clean metal industrial drums and prepare them for re-use at a very run-down facility in South Park.  Our IEJC created a great ‘Hope and Health at Work’ coloring book (that Leo grew up on) that featured their story of organizing for sanitary conditions, living wages, and health insurance.  In part because of IEJC support, ICS workers joined Teamsters Local 117 and negotiated a pretty good contract several years ago- victory! Unfortunately, the company is bargaining for a new contract that walks back commitments they made in the last one.  The workers feel deeply disrespected and have already taken a vote to strike. Local 117 reached out to Puget Sound Sage (a Seattle agency whom we have partnered with in JLP placements, and UCC environmental justice toxic tours in Georgetown, among many other worker support campaigns you have walked with them- from the Port to the airport, etc.)  We are at work to bring some faith/community folks to form a delegation to speak to ICS management so that the workers don't have to actually strike.  (Ministry of presence is welcome for those who don't wish to speak yet.) Anyone who is interested, please join with me & ICS workers, Wednesday March 20 at 9:30 am.  We will be joined by Local 117 organizer Maria Torres, who will likely translate for us. Questions? Contact Rev.Lauren at lauren.cannon@keystoneseattle.org   Conference Women's Weekend @ Pilgrim Firs, May 10-12 Come for a joy-filled, nourishing women’s weekend of music, creativity, sabbath and spiritual exploration This weekend is designed to encourage women to take a break from their normal routine and perhaps try something new. During full group gatherings, small group discussions, and mini-workshops, you will have an opportunity to embrace creativity and playfulness. Opportunities include yoga, art, spiritual exploration, time to nap, hike, read, visit, and enjoy the quiet beauty and radical hospitality of Pilgrim Firs. Yes, this is Mother’s Day weekend, but what a great opportunity to give yourself the gift of time and renewal. And our program will be completed by 10 a.m. on Sunday, so you can still be present for family celebration. We would love for you to join us! This retreat is designed for all who identify as women. Teens 15 and older are welcome, but must be accompanied by a parent or guardian. Retreat leadership will be Emily Tanis-Likkel, Kaila Russell, Brigitta Remole and Tara Barber Cost is $135, or $150 after April 1. Register at https://www.ultracamp.com/info/sessiondetail.aspx?idCamp=367&campCode=nss&idSession=214750   Keystone members testify at public hearing on #FossilFreeKC Moratorium   In January, King County passed some of the strongest anti-fossil fuel legislation of anywhere in the United States, including a six month moratorium on all new fossil fuel infrastructure. Now it’s time to get to work on making the moratorium into a permanent ban! So to make their voices heard, Keystone members Dan O'Neill and Connie and Rich Voget, attended a public hearing on the #FossilFreeKC Moratorium, on Wednesday, March 13.     The hearing was well attended and all speakers were in favor of the ordinance, pointing out the urgent need for action, offering thanks to the Council, pledging ongoing support and asking for a strong, transparent and permanent measure.  Both Rich and Connie testified.  Click here to read Connie's testimony. AND DON'T FORGET to contact our state senators and ask them to support the Green New Deal.  To e-mail Senator Murray, visit https://www.murray.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/contactme To email Senator Cantwell, visit https://www.cantwell.senate.gov/contact/email/form If you have any questions, contact Rich V at rvoget@w-link.net It’s time for the annual Seattle Labor Chorus Singalong—Saturday evening March 16, 7:00-9:30 p.m. It’s an evening to warble topical songs and pop and folk classics, led by audience members or Labor Choristers.  The singing is assisted by our house band, with lyrics projected onto the wall so that everyone can follow the words.  Or, you can just sit back and listen.  The Chorus itself performs a song or two. Don't want to sing? Then come for the silent auction, which features a wide range of goods, experiences, and services.  Click here to see a list of all the exciting items available to bid on.For bidding in the silent auction, bring your checkbook or cash. The snacks, desserts, and non-alcoholic drinks are included in the admission price.  It’s a family-friendly atmosphere, so bring the kids. The event will take place at the same location as last year - the Phinney Ridge Lutheran Church, 7500 Greenwood Avenue N. (corner of Greenwood and N. 75th Street), Seattle 98103. Doors open at 7:00pm and street parking is available (though not in the handicapped parking near the church’s back door), or else travel by the #5 bus. And you can also buy tickets for the Chorus’ annual quilt raffle, or buy the Chorus CD’s.  Admission is by a suggested donation of $15 per adult or $5 for children, but no one will be turned away.  Tickets are available from SLC members or at the door. The Singalong is the Chorus’ biggest fundraiser of the year.  It is one of the means that allows the Chorus to sing for free in support of working people at strikes, rallies, protests, and union halls; at annual meetings, at benefits for good causes, for book signings, at memorials; and at the Northwest Folklife Festival.  Further information about the Chorus is on the SLC website— www.seattlelaborchorus.org.    Or contact Janet Stecher at (206) 524-7753 or at rebelvoz@aol.com. And don't forget to SAVE THE DATE: Roy Zimmerman is coming April 7th! Roy Zimmerman will bring his political satire in music to Seattle on Sunday evening April 7, 7:30pm, at Keystone UCC, 5019 Keystone Place (Wallingford), Seattle. Admission will be $20, or pay what you can.  If you don’t already know Roy, he has written topical songs in collaboration with his wife, Melanie Harby; mischievously performs them accompanying himself on a mean guitar; and is funny as hell.  The Los Angeles Times said it all:  “Zimmerman displays a lacerating wit and keen awareness of society’s foibles that bring to mind a latter-day Tom Lehrer.” Contact rebelvoz@aol.com for more info.     Hunter Paulson-Smith - 3/5 Gus Wall - 3/9 Eliza Penick -3/10 Rev. Mike Denton - 3/18 Ruth Little - 3/21 Connie Voget - 3/25 Margaret Graham - 3/28   Here's wishing each of them the happiest of birthdays, from all of us at Keystone UCC!   Keep an eye out here for upcoming Keystone Birthdays! Reaching Keystone UCC Pastoral Staff & JLP Interns: Reach us at your Keystone church office: (206) 632-6021.  This phone is also checked remotely since all staff and interns serve part-time. Pastor Rich is available Tuesday to Thursday mornings and Friday evenings, and holds additional office times on Saturdays and Sundays.  (Monday is Sabbath.)  Not all of these times will Rich be in the church office. If you want to see him, it is best to make an appointment. Email him at rich.gamble@keystoneseattle.org Pastor Lauren is available Monday-Friday mornings (and during evening classes) and Sundays (Sabbath = Saturdays). Email to make a meeting time: lauren.cannon@keystoneseattle.org Pastor Yuki is at church two Sundays a month and is available to meet by appointment. Email her at yuki.schwartz@gmail.com. Click here for: Justice Leadership Program- UCC LIKE Keystone UCC on Facebook Click here to read our Keystone blog at "Latest News" on our website Click here to scope out our new Keystone UCC website