December 2 Jace Dyckman Getting to Zero
Case Manager for the Ryan White Team at Riverstone Health will be reviewing the history of HIV/AIDS from a personal perspective and looking forward to advances in HIV medication and policies that will focus on lowering rates of new HIV infections. The goal is reaching Zero new cases of HIV.
December 9 Dr. Barbara Miner Grace and Forgiveness
In this time of polarization of our national conversations, is there a space for Grace? Is there a space remaining for Forgiveness? How can we bridge the divide between our belief systems and our desire to have community. Barbara Miner will discuss the possibilities of stepping aside from angst to embrace possibilities.
December 16 Jim Bungert Flow, Form, and Double Consciousness in Kendrick Lamar’s “King Kunta”
This talk will examine the relationship between some of “King Kunta’s” technical characteristics — flow (Lamar’s lyrical delivery) and form (song structure) — and the social message of its lyrics, its expression of Lamar’s ambivalent position within the rap game and the exploitative nature of the capitalist economy that gave rise to his own success.
December 23 Dr. Elli Elliot Gathering Meanings – A Holiday Celebration
As the time of the longest nights makes its turning toward the almost imperceptible lengthening of the days, many traditions celebrate light in darkness. On December 23rd, our celebration will be a joint effort as it was last year. We will share songs and readings that express the many meanings of this special time of year. Plan to share something meaningful to you. We’ll have a “potluck” of worship – a potluck of many meanings to share.
December 30 Student Rabbi Erik Uriarte Understanding Anti-Semitism
The brutal attack on the Tree of Life Synagogue last month was the worst of a growing number of incidents which have targeted Jews in America. Anti-Semitic incidents increased 70% in 2017, and if it is to be fought, it is important to understand its differences and similarities to other forms of bigotry and racism. Student Rabbi Erik Uriarte from Congregation Beth Aaron will present a short primer on Antisemitism, as well as some ways to identify it and fight against it.