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Interfaith News

Interfaith News for August 29 & 30

interfaith_news

Abrahamic Program for Young Adults
APYA, founded 15 years ago, is designed to reflect the efforts and mission of the Department of Religion by teaching young adults at Chautauqua Institution about the shared heritage of the Abrahamic traditions. Programming has been suspended for the 2020 season due to the COVID-19 pandemic and will resume in 2021.

Baptist House
Located on the brick walk in the heart of Chautauqua Institution, the Baptist House has been engaged in the hospitality ministry since 1887. Our house provides a comfortable haven to meet new friends, learn through conversations on covered porches, and share experiences and life lessons as we renew our spirit on these beautiful grounds. Our mission at the Baptist House is to offer a welcoming retreat for all to fellowship, worship, rejuvenate and minister to the needs of all visitors who enter our door. We eagerly anticipate gathering again in person next year!

Blessing and Healing Daily Service
The Service of Blessing and Healing, sponsored by the Department of Religion, have traditionally taken place from 10:15 to 10:45 a.m. EDT weekdays in the Randell Chapel of the United Church of Christ Headquarters. These services will resume in the 2021 season.

Catholic Community
For the first time since our founding in 1985, we are unable to offer masses, seminars, hospitality and housing on the grounds due to COVID-19.

Weekend Masses are held at 4 p.m. EDT Saturdays at Our Lady of Lourdes in Bemus Point, and at 5:30 p.m. EDT Saturdays at St. Mary of Lourdes in Mayville. Sunday Masses are at 8 a.m. and 10 a.m. EDT at Our Lady of Lourdes in Bemus Point, and 11:30 a.m. EDT at St. Mary of Lourdes in Mayville. Daily Mass is held at 8 a.m. EDT Mondays and Fridays and at 7 p.m. EDT Thursdays at the Mayville church. Daily Mass is held at 9 a.m. EDT Tuesdays and Thursdays at the Bemus Point church. Consult the website for details: stmaryoflourdesrcparish.org

Chabad Jewish House
Thank G-d, this summer has been a meaningful and successful season for the Chabad Jewish House at Chautauqua. 

Chabad offered daily online classes in Maimonides, Everyday Ethics, Jewish Psychology,

Medical Ethics and Kabbala ’n’ Meditation. Friday afternoons, we streamed online our Challah baking classes and distributed dough in advance to those Chautauquans wishing to join along.

Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, Shabbat services were conducted outdoors in the patio with proper social distancing and with all participants wearing masks. Even during these challenging times, Chabad remained opened and available to serve the community with their Judaic, Kosher and everyday needs.

Now that the summer is over, we begin to prepare for the High Holidays, including

the festival of Sukkot.

The Zigdon Chabad Jewish House serves as a Sukkah. It is a place that is always open and joyful, uniting and welcoming all Chautauquans, no matter their background or affiliation. 

The board of Chabad Jewish House would like to wish all Chautauquans: May G-d grant you

and your loved ones, a happy, healthy, sweet and prosperous New Year, and may

you be inscribed and sealed in the Book of Life.

Chapel of the Good Shepherd
We look forward to the 2021 season when priests from churches throughout the worldwide Anglican Communion will serve as chaplains. 

Chautauqua Dialogues
Chautauqua Dialogues was established as an opportunity for Chautauquans to have meaningful engagement and conversation within the context of the Chautauqua weekly theme in an informal and small-group setting. The Chautauqua denominational houses provide the venues for these weekly discussions. More than 80 facilitators have been trained by the dialogue team led by Roger Doebke and Lynn Stahl. The Dialogues will resume in the 2021 season.

Christian Science House
The Christian Science House and Chapel joined the other denominational houses in not opening this year. After more than 50 years on Bestor Plaza, we look forward to serving Chautauquans next year at our Sunday and Wednesday church services and by providing a quiet place for prayer and reflection in our study room.

Disciples of Christ
Due to the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, Chautauqua Institution has suspended in-person programming for the 2020 summer season. Therefore, our houses will not be open for summer 2020. We look forward to welcoming you to our houses during the 2021 season. 

Since 1874, we have been hosting guests in our two houses during the Chautauqua Institution summer season. With our new year-round Graybiel House, we now also offer a comfortable and welcoming venue for autumn, winter and spring retreats, workshops and meetings.

While we have a long association with the Christian Church (Disciples of Christ), we are also leaders in Chautauqua’s interfaith community, providing affordable lodging and a welcoming community for people of all faiths and all ages. 

ECOC
Friends of the Ecumenical Community of Chautauqua hope that you and your loved ones are safe and healthy. 

The Ecumenical Community (ECOC) was not open this year for guests. The manager and the registrar were in residence completing paperwork and projects. We welcome friends to stop by with social distancing in mind.

We look forward to being together next summer on these sacred grounds — in the Shaw House, the Bird-Werner House, the Westervelt House and in our friendly community kitchens. In the meantime, please visit the ECOC website at ecoc-chautauqua.org for updates and ways to join together virtually. 

Everett Jewish Life Center in Chautauqua
It’s been a tough season for all at Chautauqua. 

The Everett Jewish Life Center is already planning new programs for 2021, with excellent speakers and first-rate films. We look forward to being with you again next summer in good health and good spirits. 

Food Pantry Donations
Hurlbut Church is accepting nonperishable food items for the Ashville Food Pantry. Donations may be dropped off at any time at the Scott entrance of Hurlbut Church.

Hebrew Congregation
The Hebrew Congregation was forced by the COVID-19 pandemic to cancel its on-campus programs. We were, however, able to serve our community with weekly virtual Kabbalat Shabbat services. We hope these have been meaningful.

The Hebrew Congregation wishes everyone a safe and healthy off season. Hopefully, we will all be together again at Chautauqua next summer.

Hurlbut Memorial Community Church
Let Hurlbut Memorial Community United Methodist Church be your summer presence for summer worship on the Chautauqua grounds. In-person worship is at 9:30 a.m. EDT Sunday, Aug. 30. Please enter the Scott Street door. At this time, no nursery is available, so children must remain with their families. Everyone is required to wear face masks the entire time while in the church.

The Rev. Carmen Perry’s sermons are accessible here

International Order of the King’s Daughters and Sons
Since 1920, The International Order of The King’s Daughters and Sons’ (IOKDS) mission included serving young adults in their personal and spiritual development at the Chautauqua Institution. This summer, like the Institution, we quickly needed to pivot our “Learn & Discern” internship program from our four properties on the Chautauqua grounds to a virtual format. The five-week program involved four interns working in areas of brand management, social media communications, faith-based programming, and donor relationships. IOKDS volunteers served as work supervisors and mentors. Their internship experience culminated in a “Virtual Huddle” where each intern presented their PowerPoint project reports and recommendations to the IOKDS Board. Valparaiso University, St. Bonaventure University and Houghton College awarded college credit for these internships. We now begin recruiting for “Learn & Discern 2021.”

Islamic Community
Jum’ah, the Friday Muslim communal prayer, has traditionally been held every Friday in the Hall of Christ. This service will resume in the 2021 season. The Jum’ah service, which has been open to all, combines the traditional elements of the Muslim worship experience with the opportunity to engage the Muslim coordinator for the Abrahamic Program for Young Adults with questions to further understanding about Islam. The Jum’ah prayer handout will be available in both Arabic and English transliteration, with detailed explanations for those who wish to join in prayer or understanding.

Labyrinth
In previous seasons, Chautauquans have had an opportunity to learn about and walk the Labyrinth, located next to Turner Community Center just north of the parking lot. Although the Labyrinth is open for quiet meditation, Norma and Wally Rees will resume their Department of Religion-sponsored orientation — which includes a brief history of the uses of the Labyrinth — in the 2021 season.

Lutheran House
Although our house was closed this season we felt it important to communicate with our guests and friends. The Lutheran House sent out three mini-newsletters and met on weekly Zoom Meet & Greet sessions for each week. We talked with over 100 “Guests” and friends. See everyone in person next year. Stay safe and healthy! 

For more information, contact Sue and Jerry Keppel at lutheranhousehost@gmail.com. 

Mystic Heart Community Meditation
The mission of The Mystic Heart is to help participants discover and manifest peace, compassion, and kindness in themselves, in their relations with others, and in their communities.

This year our online presence enabled both new and experienced meditators to maintain a daily practice. Perhaps our future will include this new way of reaching out beyond the grounds of Chautauqua. All of this summer’s online offerings will be archived and can be accessed here

Presbyterian House
Every year as we close the season, we look forward to next year. After a season away, the desire to return is even greater. We hope to see everyone on the porch for coffee in 2021 when the Presbyterian House reopens for hospitality and fellowship. 

Prayers for Peace
For many years, every morning during the season from 8:55 to 9 a.m. EDT, Chautauquans gather in the Grove to pray for peace through compassion. In 2020, all Chautauquans around the world are invited to join together from wherever they are in silent prayer and reflection for five minutes.

Religious Society of Friends (Quakers)
The Chautauqua Friends Meeting is pleased to announce that a Quaker Denominational House is now on the grounds of the Institution. Located at 28 Ames, the Chautauqua Quaker House will be a place for study, renewal and worship. We hope to assist in the Institution’s goal of increasing diversity by seeking out Quakers and others of diverse backgrounds to participate in the vibrant community that is Chautauqua. We also hope to offer some limited affordable housing. 

We will have a Friend in Residence for the entire season. This is a person deeply familiar with Quaker practices who is called to travel in the ministry. Our Friend in Residence will engage with the Chautauqua Community in a variety of ways.

We look forward to joining with other denominational houses, holding worship in our living room, and bringing a vibrant contribution in the form of Quaker conversations, perspectives and insights. We believe that our practices will support and enhance Chautauqua’s goal of “exploring the best in human values,” and we look forward to sharing the house with you at our Open House in the spring.

Unitarian Universalist Fellowship of Chautauqua
Unitarian Universalists have a legacy of “deeds not creeds.” Our work for a better world calls us to harness love’s power to stop oppression. From grassroots community organizing, to interfaith state, national and corporate advocacy; in protest marches, prayer vigils and press conferences; in homeless shelters and in prisons, Unitarian Universalists put our faith into action.

Our justice efforts are grounded in our congregationally driven social justice statements and our call to break down divisions, heal isolation, and honor the interconnectedness of all life and all justice issues. At Chautauqua, we model these commitments by creating a just, welcoming and inclusive congregation. We act in partnership with groups at Chautauqua, including the LGBTQ and Friends Community, the Collaborative Union, Parents and Friends of Lesbians and Gays, and the African American Heritage House, to bring attention to the issues of diversity, equality and inclusiveness through our Sunday Services, our Ethics Week Lectures and our contribution of funding to each organization. 

The LGBTQ and Friends Community at Chautauqua have canceled all activities this season in keeping with the limitations on public gatherings during the pandemic. For information about activities for the 2021 season, including our speaker sponsorships and community events, visit lgbtq-chq.com. To receive our newsletters, sign up on our website. 

The Chautauqua PFLAG Chapter expanded beyond the Institution about a year ago. Meetings continue throughout the year. PFLAG hosts a weekly “get together” for social connection, support and to answer the inquiries and needs of the greater Chautauqua community at 7:30 p.m. EDT Wednesdays via Zoom. PFLAG’s official monthly meeting is at 7:30 p.m. EDT on the fourth Wednesday of every month via Zoom. If you would like to attend, please email Steve Aschmann at steveaschmann@hotmail.com. For more info, call 814-440-0902 or consult our Facebook page.

United Church of Christ
We greatly regret that all three buildings of the UCC Society were closed throughout the 2020 season. For further information, go to our website: cuccs.org 

We look forward to welcoming you back next summer. Stay safe and healthy. 

United Methodist
We have truly missed sharing our summer with our many guests and visitors and the opportunity to meet more special folks during the season. The summer of 2020 has not been what any of us could have imagined, but perhaps we will appreciate even more the delights 2021 will bring as we, hopefully, gather. We so anticipate the joy of welcoming all to the porch and activities of the United Methodist House once again. Stay safe and we’ll see you on the porch!

Unity of Chautauqua
During the off-season, Unity of Chautauqua will explore “The I of the Storm: Embracing Conflict, Creating Peace,” based on the book of the same name by the Rev. Gary Simmons, at 9:30 a.m. EDT every first Sunday of the month beginning Oct. 4 via Zoom. There is an opportunity to join a discussion group on our Sunday topic from 6:30 to 8 p.m. EDT the following Wednesday evening via Zoom.

The topics to be explored are:

  • Inner resources we are here to express
  • How to dismantle those things that look and feel against us
  • The energy of conflict
  • The nature of wholeness
  • Working with judgment and criticism
  • The power of the heart
  • Reconciliation practices

Visit unitychq.org to get more details. 

Women in Ministry
Women who are involved in ministry look forward to next season’s noon meetings every Wednesday during the season via Zoom. Email Jane McCarthy janeedmccarthy@gmail.com for details

Interfaith News for August 27

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Chautauqua Catholic Community
Daily Mass is held at 8 a.m. Mondays and Fridays and at 7 p.m. Thursdays at St. Mary of Lourdes in Mayville. Daily Mass is held at 9 a.m. Tuesdays and Thursdays at Our Lady of Lourdes in Bemus Point. Consult the website for details: https://www.stmaryoflourdesrcparish.org

Hebrew Congregation
With a bit of ingenuity, we are continuing our tradition of a Kabbalat Shabbat service at 5 p.m. EDT Friday, Aug. 28, via Zoom. Cantorial Song Leader Susan Goldberg Schwartz will lead the service and give a d’var Torah from her home in Buffalo with a beautiful Chautauqua Lake scene in the background. Join us at 4:45 p.m. EDT for 15 minutes of meet-and-greet before the service begins. Following the service, there will be Break Out Rooms with rotating small groups for schmoozing until 6:30 p.m.

To register, send an email request to president Larry Cohen.

Please download or obtain a prayer book before the service. For those who are at Chautauqua, you may borrow a copy of our prayer book from Arty Salz at 4 Ames (716-357-2001) to be returned at the end of your stay. For those not at Chautauqua, the virtual prayer book is available here. The downloaded PDF file can be printed for your personal use. If you have not downloaded the prayer book in advance, click on the Chat icon in Zoom, and the link to the prayer book will be posted as a PDF file.

If you have a loved one having a yahrtzeit who you would like named in our service, or someone who should be named in our Mi Shebeirach – Prayer of Healing, send their names to Renee Andrews at reneebandrews@gmail.com.

Mystic Heart Community Meditation
The mission of The Mystic Heart is to help participants discover and manifest peace, compassion and kindness in themselves, in their relations with others, and in their communities.

Wayman Kubicka leads a session on Japanese Zen Meditation at 8 a.m. EDT Thursday, Aug. 27, on the CHQ Assembly Virtual Porch.

Michael O’Sullivan leads a session on Korean Zen Meditation at 1 p.m. EDT Thursday, Aug. 27, on the CHQ Assembly Virtual Porch.

David Gluck leads a session on Hindu Based Kosha Meditation at 8 a.m. EDT Friday, Aug. 28, on the CHQ Assembly Virtual Porch.

Kim Hehr leads a session on Kundalini Yoga Meditation at 1 p.m. EDT Friday, Aug. 28, on the CHQ Assembly Virtual Porch.

Prayers for Peace through Compassion
For many years, every morning during the season from 8:55 to 9 a.m., Chautauquans gather in the Grove to pray for peace through compassion. In 2020, all Chautauquans around the world are invited to join together from wherever they are in silent prayer and reflection for five minutes. 

Interfaith News for August 25

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Chapel of the Good Shepherd
Since we cannot socialize in person this season, here is a serving of Social Tea to enjoy:

“God accepteth the good will and the labour of his servants, no matter how we feel.” — Julian of Norwich 

Chautauqua Catholic Community
Daily Mass is held at 8 a.m. Mondays and Fridays and at 7 p.m. Thursdays at St. Mary of Lourdes in Mayville. Daily Mass is held at 9 a.m. Tuesdays and Thursdays at Our Lady of Lourdes in Bemus Point. Consult the website for details: https://www.stmaryoflourdesrcparish.org

Disciples of Christ
Join us for our online social hour via Zoom from 3 to 3:30 p.m. EDT Tuesday, Aug. 25. For access, contact Chautauqua.doc@msn.com

Hebrew Congregation
All are welcome to the Zoom Kabbalat Shabbat service of the Hebrew Congregation from 5 to 6 p.m. EDT on Fridays. Following the service, there will be Break Out Rooms with rotating small groups for schmoozing until 6:30 p.m. To register, send an email request to president Larry Cohen.

Lutheran House
Our social hour is at 4:30 p.m. EDT every Tuesday via Zoom. For an invitation, contact our hosts Sue and Jerry Keppel at lutheranhousehost@gmail.com. 

Mystic Heart Community Meditation
The mission of The Mystic Heart is to help participants discover and manifest peace, compassion, and kindness in themselves, in their relations with others, and in their communities. 

Michael O‘Sullivan leads a session on Korean Zen Meditation at 8 a.m. EDT Tuesday, Aug. 25, on the CHQ Assembly Virtual Porch.

Carol McKiernan leads a session in Centering Prayer at 1 p.m. EDT Tuesday, Aug. 25, on the CHQ Assembly Virtual Porch.

Larry Terkel leads a session on Judaism and the Kabbalah at 8 a.m. EDT Wednesday, Aug. 26, on the CHQ Assembly Virtual Porch.

Subagh Khalsa leads a session on Sikh Dharma Meditation at 1 p.m. EDT Wednesday, Aug. 26, on the CHQ Assembly Virtual Porch.

Prayers for Peace through Compassion
For many years, every morning during the season from 8:55 to 9 a.m., Chautauquans have gathered in the Grove to pray for peace through compassion. In 2020, all Chautauquans around the world are invited to join together from wherever they are in silent prayer and reflection for five minutes.   

Unitarian Universalist Fellowship of Chautauqua
Parents, Families, and Friends of Lesbians and Gays (PFLAG) host a weekly “get together” for social connection, support, and to answer the inquiries and needs of the greater Chautauqua community at 6 p.m. EDT Wednesdays via Zoom. If you would like to attend, please email steveaschmann@hotmail.com.

Women in Ministry
Women who are involved in ministry are welcome to attend our noon meeting every Wednesday via Zoom. Email janeedmccarthy@gmail.com by the evening of Tuesday, Aug. 25, to receive an invitation.

Interfaith News for August 22 & 23

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Abrahamic Program for Young Adults
APYA, founded 15 years ago, is designed to reflect the efforts and mission of the Department of Religion by teaching young adults at Chautauqua Institution about the shared heritage of the Abrahamic traditions. Programming has been suspended for the 2020 season due to the COVID-19 pandemic and will resume in 2021.

Baptist House
Located on the red brick walk in the heart of Chautauqua Institution, the Baptist House has been engaged in the hospitality ministry since 1887. Our house provides a comfortable haven to meet new friends, learn through conversations on covered porches, and share experiences and life lessons as we renew our spirit on these beautiful grounds. Our mission at the Baptist House is to offer a welcoming retreat for all to fellowship, worship, rejuvenate and minister to the needs of all visitors who enter our door. We eagerly anticipate gathering again in person next year!

Blessing and Healing Daily Service
The Service of Blessing and Healing, sponsored by the Department of Religion, had traditionally taken place from 10:15 to 10:45 a.m. EDT weekdays in the Randell Chapel of the United Church of Christ Headquarters. These services will resume in the 2021 season.

Chabad Jewish House
A full season of activities, including services and classes, was hosted by the Zigdon Chabad Jewish House, 23 Vincent. For information, visit cocweb.org.

Shabbat ends at 8:51 p.m. EDT Saturday, Aug. 22.

Chapel of the Good Shepherd
Our featured chaplain this week is the Rev. Joseph Kazlowski, supply priest in the Episcopal Diocese of Western New York.

He sends this message: “Elizabeth Caraman was an Armenian who lived during the Turkish persecution of Christians. As a child, she witnessed the abduction of her father, who was eventually executed. She grew up to become a nurse,” he said. “One day, she was nursing an elderly gentleman and to distract him from a painful procedure, she began to speak to him about her life experience and the death of her father. To her surprise, the elderly gentleman, with a tear in his eye, confessed that he was the one who executed her father. What was she going to do? She chose to tap into the Spirit within her, which transformed her from hatred into gentleness and love. She then told him that she forgave him. He responded, ‘This Christ must be even greater than I ever imagined if the Spirit of this Christ can be revealed as living in you like this!’”

Chautauqua Catholic Community
For the first time since our founding in 1985, we are unable to offer Masses, seminars, hospitality and housing on the grounds due to COVID-19.

Weekend Masses are held at 4 p.m. EDT Saturdays at Our Lady of Lourdes in Bemus Point, and at 5:30 p.m. EDT Saturdays at St. Mary of Lourdes in Mayville. Sunday Masses are at 8 a.m. and 10 a.m. EDT at Our Lady of Lourdes in Bemus Point, and 11:30 a.m. EDT at St. Mary of Lourdes in Mayville. Daily Mass is held at 8 a.m. EDT Mondays and Fridays and at 7 p.m. EDT Thursdays at the Mayville church. Daily Mass is held at 9 a.m. EDT Tuesdays and Thursdays at the Bemus Point church. Consult the website for details: stmaryoflourdesrcparish.org

Chautauqua Dialogues
Chautauqua Dialogues was established as an opportunity for Chautauquans to have meaningful engagement and conversation within the context of the Chautauqua weekly theme in an informal and small-group setting. The Chautauqua denominational houses provide the venues for these weekly discussions. More than 80 facilitators have been trained by the dialogue team led by Roger Doebke and Lynn Stahl. The Dialogues will resume in the 2021 season.

Christian Science House
The Christian Science House and Chapel join the other denominational houses in not opening this year. After more than 50 years on Bestor Plaza, we look forward to serving Chautauquans next year at our Sunday and Wednesday church services and by providing a quiet place for prayer and reflection in our study room.

Disciples of Christ
Due to the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, Chautauqua Institution has suspended in-person programming for the 2020 summer season. Therefore, our houses will not be open for summer 2020. We look forward to welcoming you to our houses during the 2021 season. 

Since 1874, we have been hosting guests in our two houses during the Chautauqua Institution summer season. With our new year-round Graybiel House, we now also offer a comfortable and welcoming venue for autumn, winter and spring retreats, workshops and meetings.

While we have a long association with the Christian Church (Disciples of Christ), we are also leaders in Chautauqua’s interfaith community, providing affordable lodging and a welcoming community for people of all faiths and all ages. 

ECOC
Friends of the Ecumenical Community of Chautauqua hope that you and your loved ones are safe and healthy. 

The Ecumenical Community (ECOC) will not be open this year for guests. The manager and the registrar will be in residence completing paperwork and projects. We welcome friends to stop by with social distancing in mind.

We look forward to being together next summer on these sacred grounds — in the Shaw House, the Bird-Werner House, the Westervelt House and in our friendly community kitchens. In the meantime, please visit the ECOC website at ecoc-chautauqua.org for updates and ways to join together virtually this summer. 

All Chautauquans are invited to gather around ECOC Virtual Kitchen Table Chats for conversation and fellowship at 7:30 p.m. EDT every Tuesday. 

Everett Jewish Life Center in Chautauqua
The Everett Jewish Life Center (EJLCC) facility is regrettably closed this summer. When we reopen, you’ll again enjoy our lecture series with presentations by distinguished scholars, a Jewish-themed film series, and a weekly Yiddish language conversation. 

Our facility offers outstanding bed-and-breakfast accommodations. For information regarding room reservations, please email us at RoomReservations@JewishCenterChautauqua.org

For additional information or questions, please email us at Admin@JewishCenterChautauqua.org

Keep healthy and safe. 

Food Pantry Donations
Hurlbut Church is accepting nonperishable food items for the Ashville Food Pantry. Donations may be dropped off at any time at the Scott entrance of Hurlbut Church.

Hebrew Congregation
The Hebrew Congregation of Chautauqua has served the Jewish community and folks from other faiths with worship, education and socialization since 1960. 

All are welcome to the Zoom Kabbalat Shabbat service of the Hebrew Congregation from 5 to 6 p.m. EDT Fridays. Following the service, there will be Break Out Rooms with rotating small groups for schmoozing until 6:30 p.m. To register, send an email request to president Larry Cohen.

A new book, Shalom Chautauqua: The Hebrew Congregation and the Jewish Presence, by Betty and Arty Salz, is hot off the press and available at the Chautauqua Bookstore. 

For any additional information, please contact congregation president Larry Cohen.

Hurlbut Memorial Community Church
Let Hurlbut Memorial Community United Methodist Church be your summer presence for summer worship on the Chautauqua grounds. In-person worship is at 9:30 a.m. EDT Sunday, Aug. 23. Please enter the Scott Street door. At this time, no nursery is available, so children must remain with their families. Everyone is required to wear face masks the entire time while in the church.

The Rev. Carmen Perry’s sermons are accessible here

International Order of the King’s Daughters and Sons
The International Order of The King’s Daughters and Sons’ (IOKDS) mission has included serving young adults in their spiritual development at Chautauqua Institution since 1920. Our newest program is the Learn and Discern college internship. With Chautauqua’s closure due to COVID-19 this season, we quickly pivoted to a virtual internship format. After sharing our syllabus with college officials at Houghton College, Valparaiso University and St. Bonaventure University, our interns will receive college credit for the virtual experience. Students have accepted the unpaid internships for brand marketing, social media communication, faith-based programming, and donor relationships. Upon successful completion of their internships, students may apply for an IOKDS scholarship here.

Islamic Community
Jum’ah, the Friday Muslim communal prayer, has traditionally been held every Friday in the Hall of Christ. This service will resume in the 2021 season. The Jum’ah service, which has been open to all, combines the traditional elements of the Muslim worship experience with the opportunity to engage the Muslim coordinator for the Abrahamic Program for Young Adults with questions to further understanding about Islam. The instructional portion begins at 12:30 p.m. EDT. The Jum’ah prayer handout is available in both Arabic and English transliteration, with detailed explanations for those who wish to join in prayer or understanding.

Labyrinth
In previous seasons, Chautauquans have had an opportunity to learn about and walk the Labyrinth, located next to Turner Community Center just north of the parking lot. Although the Labyrinth is open for quiet meditation, Norma and Wally Rees will resume their Department of Religion-sponsored orientation — which includes a brief history of the uses of the Labyrinth — in the 2021 season.

Lutheran House
While the Lutheran House is closed for in-person hosting and programming this season, we are actively sponsoring virtual programs to our guests and the Chautauqua community for the 2020 season. 

The Lutheran House hosts are sponsoring a social hour at 4:30 p.m. EDT. every Tuesday via Zoom. For an invitation, contact our hosts Sue and Jerry Keppel at lutheranhousehost@gmail.com

Mystic Heart Community Meditation
The mission of The Mystic Heart is to help participants discover and manifest peace, compassion, and kindness in themselves, in their relations with others, and in their communities.

The program continues this year with a series of 90 free, pre-recorded meditation sessions led by faculty from a variety of religious, spiritual and wisdom traditions. The sessions premiere at 8 a.m. and 1 p.m. EDT each weekday on the CHQ Assembly Virtual Porch and are archived for later use.

Kim Hehr leads a session on Kundalini Yoga Meditation for Protection at 8 a.m. EDT Monday, Aug. 24, on the CHQ Assembly Virtual Porch.

Rebecca Cole Turner leads a session on Christian Meditation at 1 p.m. EDT Monday, Aug. 24, on the CHQ Assembly Virtual Porch.

Prayers for Peace through Compassion
For many years, every morning during the season from 8:55 to 9 a.m. EDT, Chautauquans gather in the Grove to pray for peace through compassion. In 2020, all Chautauquans around the world are invited to join together from wherever they are in silent prayer and reflection for five minutes.

Presbyterian Association
The Presbyterian Association is closed for the 2020 season. We look forward and hope we will be open and welcoming of guests in 2021. 

The Presbyterian Association is both a house and a community. Our history began in 1883 to welcome Presbyterians to Chautauqua and house missionaries for summer programs. The Presbyterian Association includes all persons and provides excellent weekly accommodations and meals at prices made affordable by generous donors.

Creating a Presbyterian presence through worship, study and hospitality, the Presbyterian Association shares our beautiful and functional facility, contributes financially to Chautauqua Institution and the surrounding community, and works in cooperation with other denominational houses and religious communities.

For more information, please visit https://presbychq.org/

Religious Society of Friends (Quakers)
The Chautauqua Friends Meeting (Quakers) will not be holding Meeting for Worship or programs during the 2020 season. We are focusing on our plans for the 2021 season when we will be welcoming our first full-season Friend-in-Residence who will attend programs, be available for discussions, and create activities as needed. We will also welcome the director of the Friends Center for Racial Justice in Ithaca for a full week during the season.

Friends (Quakers) have been at Chautauqua since its earliest years. The largest gathering, estimated at 1,000, occurred during the 1900 season with the founding of Friends General Conference, an association of regional Quaker communities in the U.S. and Canada. For many decades, Friends worshipped in the Octagon Building, but in 2019 needed to relocate, as the building returned to its original use as a home for the Chautauqua Literary and Scientific Circle. In response to the need, the Unitarian Universalists made their house available to Quakers at 9:30 a.m. EDT each Sunday, enabling us to continue welcoming all to worship with us in the manner of Friends.

In 2020, we began to look for a permanent home to purchase on the grounds. Such a home might be only large enough to hold our Sunday morning service, or it might be large enough to house a few people as well. We look forward to updating our denominational friends in 2021.

Unitarian Universalist Fellowship of Chautauqua
Unitarian Universalists have a legacy of “deeds not creeds.” Our work for a better world calls us to harness love’s power to stop oppression. From grassroots community organizing, to interfaith state, national and corporate advocacy; in protest marches, prayer vigils and press conferences; in homeless shelters and in prisons, Unitarian Universalists put our faith into action.

Our justice efforts are grounded in our congregationally driven social justice statements and our call to break down divisions, heal isolation, and honor the interconnectedness of all life and all justice issues. At Chautauqua, we model these commitments by creating a just, welcoming and inclusive congregation. We act in partnership with groups at Chautauqua, including the LGBTQ and Friends Community, The Collaborative Union, Parents and Friends of Lesbians and Gays, and the African American Heritage House, to bring attention to the issues of diversity, equality and inclusiveness through our Sunday Services, our Ethics Week Lectures and our contribution of funding to each organization. 

The LGBTQ and Friends Community at Chautauqua have canceled all activities this season in keeping with the limitations on public gatherings during the pandemic. For information about activities for the 2021 season, including our speaker sponsorships and community events, visit lgbtq-chq.com. To receive our newsletters, sign up on our website. 

The Chautauqua PFLAG Chapter expanded beyond the Institution about a year ago. Now, in addition to its weekly meetings at the Unitarian Universalist House during the Chautauqua season, PFLAG also meets monthly during the off-season at the Patterson Library in Westfield. Since the Institution is curtailing the summer programming, PFLAG is hosting a weekly “get together” for social connection, support and to answer the inquiries and needs of the greater Chautauqua community at 6:30 p.m. EDT Wednesdays via Zoom. PFLAG’s official monthly meeting is at 6:30 p.m. EDT on the last Wednesday of every month via Zoom. If you would like to attend, please email Steve Aschmann at steveaschmann@hotmail.com. For more info, call 814-440-0902 or consult our Facebook page.

United Church of Christ
We greatly regret that all three buildings of the UCC Society will be closed throughout this summer. For further information, go to our website: cuccs.org 

We look forward to welcoming you back next summer. Stay safe and healthy. 

United Methodist
The United Methodist House was built in 1888 by the founders of the Chautauqua Assembly. Methodist Episcopal Bishop John Heyl Vincent and Lewis Miller, a philanthropist and member of the Board of Trustees, accepted a bid of $3,800 to erect a headquarters building. Amazingly, the construction was completed in 90 days and ready for the 1888 Assembly. In the early days, it housed meeting rooms, a ladies parlor, a library and public toilets.

The United Methodist House today is a year-round center. In the summer months, rooms are rented by the week. Once the Chautauqua summer season has ended, the house is rented by groups for retreats, family reunions, craft gatherings, etc. More information is available on our website, umhouse.com, and Facebook: United Methodist House – Chautauqua Institution.

While we are sorry and sad to not be there to greet visitors this summer, all are welcome and encouraged to visit the porch in 2021, when we can enjoy the wicker rockers, have something cool to drink, meet with old friends and make new ones, or just sit and watch the constant stream of interesting folks who stroll by the house. Until then, stay safe and count your blessings!

Unity of Chautauqua
This summer, Unity will explore “Trusting the Process of Change Using Life’s Changes for Spiritual Awakening” during the 9:15 a.m. EDT Sunday meetings via Zoom. Topics addressed are:

  • Understanding the nature of change and the dynamics of the transition process.
  • Discovering deeper meaning in the disturbing and unsettling events in our individual lives and in the world.
  • Navigating life’s changes and challenges using the Biblical Exodus story.
  • Bringing forth our “best” selves as we allow a greater Reality to direct our lives.

The Rev. Barbara Williams presents “The Plan Unfolds” at 9:15 a.m. EDT Sunday, Aug. 23, via Zoom. Within each cell of our body exists a DNA molecule which directs the destiny of that cell. Likewise, within each soul, a divine plan guides the evolution of that soul. 

For more information about Unity of Chautauqua and how to access the Zoom meeting, visit unitychq.org.

Interfaith News for August 20

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Chautauqua Catholic Community
Daily Mass is held at 8 a.m. Mondays and Fridays and at 7 p.m. Thursdays at St. Mary of Lourdes in Mayville. Daily Mass is held at 9 a.m. Tuesdays and Thursdays at Our Lady of Lourdes in Bemus Point. Consult the website for details: https://www.stmaryoflourdesrcparish.org

Chabad Jewish House
Esther Vilenkin presents “Medical Ethics” from 9:30 to 10:30 a.m. EDT Thursday, Aug. 20, via Zoom and YouTube. As new ethical matters arise, Judaism offers Divine guidelines to these often-complex issues. These discussions explore medical ethics issues through the lenses of Jewish law.

To watch the classes streamed live, please visit www.cocweb.org. If you would like to join in the discussions and classes via Zoom, click here.

Shabbat candle lighting is 7:51 p.m. EDT Friday, Aug. 21. 

Hebrew Congregation
With a bit of ingenuity, we are continuing our tradition of a Kabbalat Shabbat service at 5 p.m. EDT Friday, Aug. 21, via Zoom. Cantorial Song Leader Susan Goldberg Schwartz will lead it from her home in Buffalo with a beautiful Chautauqua Lake scene in the background. The Rt. Rev. V. Gene Robinson, vice president of religion and senior pastor of Chautauqua Institution, will give the d’var Torah. Join us at 4:45 p.m. EDT for 15 minutes of meet and greet before the service begins. Following the service, there will be Break Out Rooms with rotating small groups for schmoozing until 6:30 p.m.

To register, send an email request to president Larry Cohen.

Please download or obtain a prayer book before the service. For those who are at Chautauqua, you may borrow a copy of our prayer book from Arty Salz at 4 Ames (716-357-2001) to be returned at the end of your stay. For those not at Chautauqua, the prayer book is available here. The downloaded PDF file can be printed for your personal use. 

If you have not downloaded the prayer book in advance, click on the Chat icon in Zoom, and the link to the prayer book will be posted as a PDF file.

If you have a loved one having a yahrtzeit who you would like named in our service, or someone who should be named in our Mi Shebeirach – Prayer of Healing, send their names to Renee Andrews at reneebandrews@gmail.com.

Mystic Heart Community Meditation
The mission of The Mystic Heart is to help participants discover and manifest peace, compassion, and kindness in themselves, in their relations with others, and in their communities.

Bob Zuiryu Moore leads a session on Soto Zen Meditation at 8 a.m. EDT Thursday, Aug. 20, on the CHQ Assembly Virtual Porch.

Wayman Kubicka leads a session on Japanese Zen Meditation at 1 p.m. EDT Thursday, Aug. 20, on the CHQ Assembly Virtual Porch.

Subagh Khalsa leads a session on Sikh Dharma Meditation at 8 a.m. EDT Friday, Aug. 21, on the CHQ Assembly Virtual Porch.

Muinuddin Charles Smith leads a session on Sufi Meditation on the Breath at 1 p.m. EDT Friday, Aug. 21, on the CHQ Assembly Virtual Porch.

Prayers for Peace through Compassion
For many years, every morning during the season from 8:55 to 9 a.m., Chautauquans gather in the Grove to pray for peace through compassion. In 2020, all Chautauquans around the world are invited to join together from wherever they are in silent prayer and reflection for five minutes.

Interfaith News for August 18

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Chabad Jewish House
A full season of activities, including services and classes, has been planned by the Zigdon Chabad Jewish House at 23 Vincent. Visit cocweb.org for the schedule and information about logging into the services and classes.

Rabbi Zalman Vilenkin presents “Talmudic Everyday Ethics” from 9:30 to 10:30 a.m. EDT Tuesday, Aug. 18, via Zoom and YouTube. These discussions focus on everyday ethical issues and use the Talmud and other Jewish sources as its guide.

Vilenkin presents “Jewish Psychology” from 9:30 to 10:30 a.m. EDT Wednesday, Aug. 19, via Zoom and YouTube. Join us and study the Jewish model of human psychology and how to apply it to life.

To watch the classes streamed live, please visit www.cocweb.org. If you would like to join in the discussion/class via Zoom, please email rabbi@cocweb.org for the meeting ID and password.

Chapel of the Good Shepherd
Since we cannot socialize in person this season, here is a serving of Social Tea to enjoy:

Manners are like the cypher in arithmetic — they may not be much in themselves, but they are capable of adding a great deal to the value of everything else.”  — Freya Stark

Chautauqua Catholic Community
Daily Mass is held at 8 a.m. Mondays and Fridays and at 7 p.m. Thursdays at St. Mary of Lourdes in Mayville. Daily Mass is held at 9 a.m. Tuesdays and Thursdays at Our Lady of Lourdes in Bemus Point. Consult the website for details: https://www.stmaryoflourdesrcparish.org 

Disciples of Christ
Join us for our online social hour via Zoom from 3 to 3:30 p.m EDT Tuesday, Aug. 18.  For access, contact Chautauqua.doc@msn.com.

Hebrew Congregation
All are welcome to the Zoom Kabbalat Shabbat service of the Hebrew Congregation from 5 to 6 p.m. EDT on Fridays. Following the service, there will be Break Out Rooms with rotating small groups for schmoozing until 6:30 p.m. To register, send an email request to president Larry Cohen.

Lutheran House
Our social hour is at 4:30 p.m. EDT every Tuesday via Zoom. For an invitation, contact our hosts Sue and Jerry Keppel at lutheranhousehost@gmail.com

Mystic Heart Community Meditation
The mission of The Mystic Heart is to help participants discover and manifest peace, compassion, and kindness in themselves, in their relations with others, and in their communities. 

Carol McKiernan leads a session on Centering Prayer at 8 a.m. EDT Tuesday, Aug. 18, on the CHQ Assembly Virtual Porch.

Wayman Kubicka leads a session in Japanese Zen Meditation at 1 p.m. EDT Tuesday, Aug. 18, on the CHQ Assembly Virtual Porch.

David Gluck leads a session on Hindu Based Meditation, Body Of Light at 8 a.m. EDT Wednesday, Aug. 19, on the CHQ Assembly Virtual Porch.

Larry Terkel leads a session on Judaism and the Kabbalah at 1 p.m. EDT Wednesday, Aug. 19, on the CHQ Assembly Virtual Porch.

Prayers for Peace through Compassion
For many years, every morning during the season from 8:55 to 9 a.m., Chautauquans have gathered in the Grove to pray for peace through compassion. In 2020, all Chautauquans around the world are invited to join together from wherever they are in silent prayer and reflection for five minutes.   

Unitarian Universalist Fellowship of Chautauqua
Parents, Families, and Friends of Lesbians and Gays (PFLAG) host a weekly “get together” for social connection, support, and to answer the inquiries and needs of the greater Chautauqua community at 6 p.m. EDT Wednesdays via Zoom. If you would like to attend, please email steveaschmann@hotmail.com.

Women in Ministry
Women who are involved in ministry are welcome to attend our noon meeting every Wednesday via Zoom. Email janeedmccarthy@gmail.com by the evening of Tuesday, Aug. 18, to receive an invitation.

Interfaith News for August 15 & 16

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Abrahamic Program for Young Adults
APYA, founded 15 years ago, is designed to reflect the efforts and mission of the Department of Religion by teaching young adults at Chautauqua Institution about the shared heritage of the Abrahamic traditions. Programming has been suspended for the 2020 season due to the COVID-19 pandemic and will resume in 2021.

Baptist House
Located on the red brick walk in the heart of Chautauqua Institution, the Baptist House has been engaged in the hospitality ministry since 1887. Our house provides a comfortable haven to meet new friends, learn through conversations on covered porches, and share experiences and life lessons as we renew our spirit on these beautiful grounds. Our mission at the Baptist House is to offer a welcoming retreat for all to fellowship, worship, rejuvenate and minister to the needs of all visitors who enter our door. We eagerly anticipate gathering again in person next year!

Blessing and Healing Daily Service
The Service of Blessing and Healing, sponsored by the Department of Religion, had traditionally taken place from 10:15 to 10:45 a.m. EDT weekdays in the Randell Chapel of the United Church of Christ Headquarters. These services will resume in the 2021 season.

Chabad Jewish House
A full season of activities, including services and classes, has been planned by the Zigdon Chabad Jewish House, 23 Vincent. Visit cocweb.org for the schedule and information about logging into the services and classes.

Shabbat ends at 9:03 p.m. EDT Saturday, Aug. 15.

Rabbi Zalman Vilenkin presents “Maimonides – Principles of Faith” from 6:30 to 7:30 p.m. EDT Monday, Aug. 17, via Zoom and YouTube. This class is not an exposition, but rather an expedition into Judaism’s 13 principles of the faith.

To watch the classes streamed live, please visit www.cocweb.org. If you would like to join in the discussion/class via Zoom, please email rabbi@cocweb.org for the meeting ID and password.

Chapel of the Good Shepherd
Our featured chaplain this week is the Rev. David Meyers, rector of St. Peter’s by the Lake in Montague, Michigan. He sends this message: “I often put our Gospel lessons to verse as our grandchildren find the meaning more discernible when the text is presented in a simple rhythmic form. This is the gospel reading for Pentecost V – Matthew 11:16 ff.”  

 

The world has eyes yet cannot see,

How hidden things will come to be.

Should playing children come to know,

All that the Father deigns to show?

 

For wise and learned have no skill,

In sorting out the Father’s will.

Much studied practice keeps them blind.

To Son and Father’s deepest mind.

 

So Jesus simply bids them all, 

When weighty burdens cause a fall;

To come to him for peace and rest;

His yoke is comfort for the blessed.

 

The loving savior’s gentle heart,

Invites the burdened come apart;

And glory in his holy ease,

Which lightly lifts them off their knees.

Chautauqua Catholic Community
For the first time since our founding in 1985, we are unable to offer Masses, seminars, hospitality and housing on the grounds due to COVID-19.

Weekend Masses are held at 4 p.m. EDT Saturdays at Our Lady of Lourdes in Bemus Point, and at 5:30 p.m. EDT Saturdays at St. Mary of Lourdes in Mayville. Sunday Masses are at 8 a.m. and 10 a.m. EDT at Our Lady of Lourdes in Bemus Point, and 11:30 a.m. EDT at St. Mary of Lourdes in Mayville. Daily Mass is held at 8 a.m. EDT Mondays and Fridays and at 7 p.m. EDT Thursdays at the Mayville church. Daily Mass is held at 9 a.m. EDT Tuesdays and Thursdays at the Bemus Point church. Consult the website for details: stmaryoflourdesrcparish.org

Chautauqua Dialogues
Chautauqua Dialogues was established as an opportunity for Chautauquans to have meaningful engagement and conversation within the context of the Chautauqua weekly theme in an informal and small-group setting. The Chautauqua denominational houses provide the venues for these weekly discussions. More than 80 facilitators have been trained by the dialogue team led by Roger Doebke and Lynn Stahl. The Dialogues will resume in the 2021 season.

Christian Science House
The Christian Science House and Chapel join the other denominational houses in not opening this year. After more than 50 years on Bestor Plaza, we look forward to serving Chautauquans next year at our Sunday and Wednesday church services and by providing a quiet place for prayer and reflection in our study room.

Disciples of Christ
Due to the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, Chautauqua Institution has suspended in-person programming for the 2020 summer season. Therefore, our houses will not be open for summer 2020. We look forward to welcoming you to our houses during the 2021 season. 

Since 1874, we have been hosting guests in our two houses during the Chautauqua Institution summer season. With our new year-round Graybiel House, we now also offer a comfortable and welcoming venue for autumn, winter and spring retreats, workshops and meetings.

While we have a long association with the Christian Church (Disciples of Christ), we are also leaders in Chautauqua’s interfaith community, providing affordable lodging and a welcoming community for people of all faiths and all ages. 

ECOC
Friends of the Ecumenical Community of Chautauqua hope that you and your loved ones are safe and healthy. 

The Ecumenical Community (ECOC) will not be open this year for guests. The manager and the registrar will be in residence completing paperwork and projects. We welcome friends to stop by with social distancing in mind.

We look forward to being together next summer on these sacred grounds — in the Shaw House, the Bird-Werner House, the Westervelt House and in our friendly community kitchens. In the meantime, please visit the ECOC website at ecoc-chautauqua.org for updates and ways to join together virtually this summer. 

All Chautauquans are invited to gather around ECOC Virtual Kitchen Table Chats for conversation and fellowship at 7:30 p.m. EDT every Tuesday. 

Everett Jewish Life Center in Chautauqua
The Everett Jewish Life Center (EJLCC) facility is regrettably closed this summer. When we reopen, you’ll again enjoy our lecture series with presentations by distinguished scholars, a Jewish-themed film series, and a weekly Yiddish language conversation. 

Our facility offers outstanding bed-and-breakfast accommodations. For information regarding room reservations, please email us at RoomReservations@JewishCenterChautauqua.org

For additional information or questions, please email us at Admin@JewishCenterChautauqua.org

Keep healthy and safe. 

Food Pantry Donations
Hurlbut Church is accepting nonperishable food items for the Ashville Food Pantry. Donations may be dropped off at any time at the Scott entrance of Hurlbut Church.

Hebrew Congregation
The Hebrew Congregation of Chautauqua has served the Jewish community and folks from other faiths with worship, education and socialization since 1960. 

All are welcome to the Zoom Kabbalat Shabbat service of the Hebrew Congregation from 5 to 6 p.m. EDT Fridays. Following the service, there will be Break Out Rooms with rotating small groups for schmoozing until 6:30 p.m. To register, send an email request to president Larry Cohen.

A new book, Shalom Chautauqua: The Hebrew Congregation and the Jewish Presence, by Betty and Arty Salz, is hot off the press and available at the Chautauqua Bookstore. 

For any additional information, please contact congregation president Larry Cohen.

Hurlbut Memorial Community Church
Let Hurlbut Memorial Community United Methodist Church be your summer presence for summer worship on the Chautauqua grounds. In-person worship is at 9:30 a.m. EDT Sunday, Aug. 16. Please enter the Scott Street door. At this time, no nursery is available, so children must remain with their families. Everyone is required to wear face masks the entire time while in the church.

The Rev. Carmen Perry’s sermons are accessible here

International Order of the King’s Daughters and Sons
The International Order of The King’s Daughters and Sons’ (IOKDS) mission has included serving young adults in their spiritual development at Chautauqua Institution since 1920. Our newest program is the Learn and Discern college internship. With Chautauqua’s closure due to COVID-19 this season, we quickly pivoted to a virtual internship format. After sharing our syllabus with college officials at Houghton College, Valparaiso University and St. Bonaventure University, our interns will receive college credit for the virtual experience. Students have accepted the unpaid internships for brand marketing, social media communication, faith-based programming, and donor relationships. Upon successful completion of their internships, students may apply for an IOKDS scholarship here.

Islamic Community
Jum’ah, the Friday Muslim communal prayer, has traditionally been held every Friday in the Hall of Christ. This service will resume in the 2021 season. The Jum’ah service, which has been open to all, combines the traditional elements of the Muslim worship experience with the opportunity to engage the Muslim coordinator for the Abrahamic Program for Young Adults with questions to further understanding about Islam. The instructional portion begins at 12:30 p.m. EDT. The Jum’ah prayer handout is available in both Arabic and English transliteration, with detailed explanations for those who wish to join in prayer or understanding.

Labyrinth
In previous seasons, Chautauquans have had an opportunity to learn about and walk the Labyrinth, located next to Turner Community Center just north of the parking lot. Although the Labyrinth is open for quiet meditation, Norma and Wally Rees will resume their Department of Religion-sponsored orientation — which includes a brief history of the uses of the Labyrinth — in the 2021 season.

Lutheran House
While the Lutheran House is closed for in-person hosting and programming this season, we are actively sponsoring virtual programs to our guests and the Chautauqua community for the 2020 season. 

The Lutheran House hosts are sponsoring a social hour at 4:30 p.m. EDT. every Tuesday via Zoom. For an invitation, contact our hosts Sue and Jerry Keppel at lutheranhousehost@gmail.com

Mystic Heart Community Meditation
The mission of The Mystic Heart is to help participants discover and manifest peace, compassion, and kindness in themselves, in their relations with others, and in their communities.

The program continues this year with a series of 90 free, pre-recorded meditation sessions led by faculty from a variety of religious, spiritual and wisdom traditions. The sessions premiere at 8 a.m. and 1 p.m. EDT each weekday on the CHQ Assembly Virtual Porch, and are archived for later use.

Jim Leff leads a session on Sufi Meditation on the Breath at 8 a.m. EDT Monday, Aug. 17, on the CHQ Assembly Virtual Porch.

Kainat-Felicia Norton leads a session on Sufi Meditation at 1 p.m. EDT Monday, Aug. 17, on the CHQ Assembly Virtual Porch.

Prayers for Peace through Compassion
For many years, every morning during the season from 8:55 to 9 a.m. EDT, Chautauquans gather in the Grove to pray for peace through compassion. In 2020, all Chautauquans around the world are invited to join together from wherever they are in silent prayer and reflection for five minutes.

Presbyterian Association
The Presbyterian Association is closed for the 2020 season. We look forward and hope we will be open and welcoming of guests in 2021. 

The Presbyterian Association is both a house and a community. Our history began in 1883 to welcome Presbyterians to Chautauqua and house missionaries for summer programs. The Presbyterian Association includes all persons and provides excellent weekly accommodations and meals at prices made affordable by generous donors.

Creating a Presbyterian presence through worship, study and hospitality, the Presbyterian Association shares our beautiful and functional facility, contributes financially to Chautauqua Institution and the surrounding community, and works in cooperation with other denominational houses and religious communities.

For more information, please visit https://presbychq.org/

Religious Society of Friends (Quakers)
The Chautauqua Friends Meeting (Quakers) will not be holding Meeting for Worship or programs during the 2020 season. We are focusing on our plans for the 2021 season when we will be welcoming our first full-season Friend-in-Residence who will attend programs, be available for discussions, and create activities as needed. We will also welcome the director of the Friends Center for Racial Justice in Ithaca for a full week during the season.

Friends (Quakers) have been at Chautauqua since its earliest years. The largest gathering, estimated at 1,000, occurred during the 1900 season with the founding of Friends General Conference, an association of regional Quaker communities in the U.S. and Canada. For many decades, Friends worshipped in the Octagon Building, but in 2019 needed to relocate, as the building returned to its original use as a home for the Chautauqua Literary and Scientific Circle. In response to the need, the Unitarian Universalists made their house available to Quakers at 9:30 a.m. EDT each Sunday, enabling us to continue welcoming all to worship with us in the manner of Friends.

In 2020, we have begun to look for a permanent home to purchase on the grounds. Such a home might be only large enough to hold our Sunday morning service, or it might be large enough to house a few people as well. We look forward to updating our denominational friends in 2021.

Unitarian Universalist Fellowship of Chautauqua
Unitarian Universalists have a legacy of “deeds not creeds.” Our work for a better world calls us to harness love’s power to stop oppression. From grassroots community organizing, to interfaith state, national and corporate advocacy; in protest marches, prayer vigils and press conferences; in homeless shelters and in prisons, Unitarian Universalists put our faith into action.

Our justice efforts are grounded in our congregationally driven social justice statements and our call to break down divisions, heal isolation, and honor the interconnectedness of all life and all justice issues. At Chautauqua, we model these commitments by creating a just, welcoming and inclusive congregation. We act in partnership with groups at Chautauqua, including the LGBTQ and Friends Community, The Collaborative Union, Parents and Friends of Lesbians and Gays, and the African American Heritage House, to bring attention to the issues of diversity, equality and inclusiveness through our Sunday Services, our Ethics Week Lectures and our contribution of funding to each organization. 

The LGBTQ and Friends Community at Chautauqua have canceled all activities this season in keeping with the limitations on public gatherings during the pandemic. For information about activities for the 2021 season, including our speaker sponsorships and community events, visit lgbtq-chq.com. To receive our newsletters, sign up on our website. 

The Chautauqua PFLAG Chapter expanded beyond the Institution about a year ago. Now, in addition to its weekly meetings at the Unitarian Universalist House during the Chautauqua season, PFLAG also meets monthly during the off-season at the Patterson Library in Westfield. Since the Institution is curtailing the summer programming, PFLAG is hosting a weekly “get together” for social connection, support and to answer the inquiries and needs of the greater Chautauqua community at 6:30 p.m. EDT Wednesdays via Zoom. PFLAG’s official monthly meeting is at 6:30 p.m. EDT on the last Wednesday of every month via Zoom. If you would like to attend, please email Steve Aschmann at steveaschmann@hotmail.com. For more info, call 814-440-0902 or consult our Facebook page.

United Church of Christ
We greatly regret that all three buildings of the UCC Society will be closed throughout this summer. For further information, go to our website: cuccs.org 

We look forward to welcoming you back next summer. Stay safe and healthy. 

United Methodist
The United Methodist House was built in 1888 by the founders of the Chautauqua Assembly. Methodist Episcopal Bishop John Heyl Vincent and Lewis Miller, a philanthropist and member of the Board of Trustees, accepted a bid of $3,800 to erect a headquarters building. Amazingly, the construction was completed in 90 days and ready for the 1888 Assembly. In the early days, it housed meeting rooms, a ladies parlor, a library and public toilets.

The United Methodist House today is a year-round center. In the summer months, rooms are rented by the week. Once the Chautauqua summer season has ended, the house is rented by groups for retreats, family reunions, craft gatherings, etc. More information is available on our website, umhouse.com, and Facebook: United Methodist House – Chautauqua Institution.

While we are sorry and sad to not be there to greet visitors this summer, all are welcome and encouraged to visit the porch in 2021, when we can enjoy the wicker rockers, have something cool to drink, meet with old friends and make new ones, or just sit and watch the constant stream of interesting folks who stroll by the house. Until then, stay safe and count your blessings!

Unity of Chautauqua
This summer, Unity will explore “Trusting the Process of Change Using Life’s Changes for Spiritual Awakening” during the 9:15 a.m. EDT Sunday meetings via Zoom. Topics addressed are:

  • Understanding the nature of change and the dynamics of the transition process.
  • Discovering deeper meaning in the disturbing and unsettling events in our individual lives and in the world.
  • Navigating life’s changes and challenges using the Biblical Exodus story.
  • Bringing forth our “best” selves as we allow a greater Reality to direct our lives.

The Rev. Jesse James presents “New Beginnings: The Promised Land” at 9:15 a.m. EDT Sunday, Aug. 16, via Zoom. As we pray for guidance and divine order, trusting in God at work in our life, the New Beginning will occur at exactly the right time in the right way. 

For more information about Unity of Chautauqua and how to access the Zoom meeting, visit unitychq.org.

Interfaith News for August 13

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Chautauqua Catholic Community
Daily Mass is held at 8 a.m. Mondays and Fridays and at 7 p.m. Thursdays at St. Mary of Lourdes in Mayville. Daily Mass is held at 9 a.m. Tuesdays and Thursdays at Our Lady of Lourdes in Bemus Point. Consult the website for details: https://www.stmaryoflourdesrcparish.org

Chabad Jewish House
Esther Vilenkin presents “Medical Ethics” from 9:30 to 10:30 a.m. EDT Thursday, Aug. 13, via Zoom and YouTube. As new ethical matters arise, Judaism offers Divine guidelines to these often complex issues. These discussions explore medical ethics issues through the lenses of Jewish law.

Rabbi Zalman Vilenkin presents “Kabbalah and Meditation” from 9:30 to 10:30 a.m. EDT Friday, Aug. 14, via Zoom and YouTube. This class delves into the steps in the process of hitbonenut in the Jewish mystical tradition. The steps of Jewish meditation through history are retraced, beginning with the Biblical prophets to the Talmudic sages and Jewish mystics.

The Miriam Gurary Challah Baking Series continues this season from 12:15 to 1 p.m. EDT Friday, Aug. 14, via Zoom and YouTube. Discover the meaning of Shabbat foods and rituals while making and braiding challah. 

To watch the classes streamed live, please visit www.cocweb.org. If you would like to join in the discussions and classes via Zoom, click here.

Shabbat candle lighting is 8:01 p.m. EDT Friday, Aug. 14. 

Hebrew Congregation
With a bit of ingenuity, we are continuing our tradition of a Kabbalat Shabbat service at 5 p.m. EDT Friday, Aug. 14, via Zoom. Cantorial Song Leader Susan Goldberg Schwartz will lead it from her home in Buffalo with a beautiful Chautauqua Lake scene in the background. Rabbi Elyse Goldstein of The City Shul in Toronto will give the d’var Torah. Join us at 4:45 p.m. EDT for 15 minutes of meet and greet before the service begins. Following the service, there will be Break Out Rooms with rotating small groups for schmoozing until 6:30 p.m.

To register, send an email request to president Larry Cohen.

Please download or obtain a prayer book before the service. For those who are at Chautauqua, you may borrow a copy of our prayer book from Arty Salz at 4 Ames (716-357-2001) to be returned at the end of your stay. For those not at Chautauqua, the prayer book is available here. The downloaded PDF file can be printed for your personal use. 

If you have not downloaded the prayer book in advance, click on the Chat icon in Zoom, and the link to the prayer book will be posted as a PDF file.

If you have a loved one having a yahrtzeit who you would like named in our service, or someone who should be named in our Mi Shebeirach – Prayer of Healing, send their names to Renee Andrews at reneebandrews@gmail.com.

Mystic Heart Community Meditation
The mission of The Mystic Heart is to help participants discover and manifest peace, compassion, and kindness in themselves, in their relations with others, and in their communities.

Rebecca Cole Turner leads a session on Christian Meditation at 8 a.m. EDT Thursday, Aug. 13, on the CHQ Assembly Virtual Porch.

Subagh Khalsa leads a session on Sikh Dharma Meditation at 1 p.m. EDT Thursday, Aug. 13, on the CHQ Assembly Virtual Porch.

Larry Terkel leads a session on Judaism and the Kabbalah at 8 a.m. EDT Friday, Aug. 14, on the CHQ Assembly Virtual Porch.

Kim Hehr leads a session on Kundalini Yoga Meditation — Invoking a Meditative State at 1 p.m. EDT Friday, Aug. 14, on the CHQ Assembly Virtual Porch.

Prayers for Peace through Compassion
For many years, every morning during the season from 8:55 to 9 a.m., Chautauquans gather in the Grove to pray for peace through compassion. In 2020, all Chautauquans around the world are invited to join together from wherever they are in silent prayer and reflection for five minutes.

Interfaith News for August 11

interfaith_news

Chabad Jewish House
A full season of activities, including services and classes, has been planned by the Zigdon Chabad Jewish House at 23 Vincent. Visit cocweb.org for the schedule and information about logging into the services and classes.

Rabbi Zalman Vilenkin presents “Talmudic Everyday Ethics” from 9:30 to 10:30 a.m. EDT Tuesday, Aug. 11, via Zoom and YouTube. These discussions focus on everyday ethical issues and use the Talmud and other Jewish sources as its guide.

Vilenkin presents “Jewish Psychology” from 9:30 to 10:30 a.m. EDT Wednesday, Aug. 12, via Zoom and YouTube. Join us and study the Jewish model of human psychology and how to apply it to life.

To watch the classes streamed live, please visit www.cocweb.org. If you would like to join in the discussion/class via Zoom, please email rabbi@cocweb.org for the meeting ID and password.

Chapel of the Good Shepherd
Since we cannot socialize in person this season, here is a serving of Social Tea to enjoy:

“From every point on earth we are equally near to heaven and to the infinite.” — Frederic Amiel 

Chautauqua Catholic Community
Daily Mass is held at 8 a.m. Mondays and Fridays and at 7 p.m. Thursdays at St. Mary of Lourdes in Mayville. Daily Mass is held at 9 a.m. Tuesdays and Thursdays at Our Lady of Lourdes in Bemus Point. Consult the website for details: https://www.stmaryoflourdesrcparish.org

Hebrew Congregation
All are welcome to the Zoom Kabbalat Shabbat service of the Hebrew Congregation from 5 to 6 p.m. EDT on Fridays. Following the service, there will be Break Out Rooms with rotating small groups for schmoozing until 6:30 p.m. To register, send an email request to president Larry Cohen.

Lutheran House
Our social hour is at 4:30 p.m. EDT every Tuesday via Zoom. For an invitation, contact our hosts Sue and Jerry Keppel at lutheranhousehost@gmail.com

Mystic Heart Community Meditation
The mission of The Mystic Heart is to help participants discover and manifest peace, compassion, and kindness in themselves, in their relations with others, and in their communities. 

Muinuddin Charles Smith leads a session on Sufi Meditation and Purification with Elements at 8 a.m. EDT Tuesday, Aug. 11, on the CHQ Assembly Virtual Porch. 

Carol McKiernan leads a session in Centering Prayer, Meditation at 1 p.m. EDT Tuesday, Aug. 11, on the CHQ Assembly Virtual Porch. 

Michael O‘Sullivan leads a session on Korean Zen Meditation for Balance at 8 a.m. EDT Wednesday, Aug. 12, on the CHQ Assembly Virtual Porch. 

Bob Zuiryu Moore leads a session on Soto Zen Meditation at 1 p.m. EDT Wednesday, Aug. 12, on the CHQ Assembly Virtual Porch.

Prayers for Peace through Compassion
For many years, every morning during the season from 8:55 to 9 a.m., Chautauquans have gathered in the Grove to pray for peace through compassion. In 2020, all Chautauquans around the world are invited to join together from wherever they are in silent prayer and reflection for five minutes.   

Unitarian Universalist Fellowship of Chautauqua
Parents, Families, and Friends of Lesbians and Gays (PFLAG) host a weekly “get together” for social connection, support, and to answer the inquiries and needs of the greater Chautauqua community at 6 p.m. EDT Wednesdays via Zoom. If you would like to attend, please email steveaschmann@hotmail.com.

Women in Ministry
Women who are involved in ministry are welcome to attend our noon meeting every Wednesday via Zoom. Email janeedmccarthy@gmail.com by the evening of Tuesday, Aug. 11, to receive an invitation.

Interfaith News for August 8 & 9

interfaith_news

Abrahamic Program for Young Adults
APYA, founded 15 years ago, is designed to reflect the efforts and mission of the Department of Religion by teaching young adults at Chautauqua Institution about the shared heritage of the Abrahamic traditions. Programming has been suspended for the 2020 season due to the COVID-19 pandemic and will resume in 2021.

Baptist House
Located on the red brick walk in the heart of Chautauqua Institution, the Baptist House has been engaged in the hospitality ministry since 1887. Our house provides a comfortable haven to meet new friends, learn through conversations on covered porches, and share experiences and life lessons as we renew our spirit on these beautiful grounds. Our mission at the Baptist House is to offer a welcoming retreat for all to fellowship, worship, rejuvenate and minister to the needs of all visitors who enter our door. We eagerly anticipate gathering again in person next year!

Blessing and Healing Daily Service
The Service of Blessing and Healing, sponsored by the Department of Religion, had traditionally taken place from 10:15 to 10:45 a.m. EDT weekdays in the Randell Chapel of the United Church of Christ Headquarters. These services will resume in the 2021 season.

Chabad Jewish House
A full season of activities, including services and classes, has been planned by the Zigdon Chabad Jewish House, 23 Vincent. Visit cocweb.org for the schedule and information about logging into the services and classes.

Shabbat ends at 9:14 p.m. EDT Saturday, Aug. 8.

Rabbi Zalman Vilenkin presents “Maimonides – Principles of Faith” from 9:30 to 10:30 a.m. EDT Monday, Aug. 10, via Zoom and YouTube. This class is not an exposition, but rather an expedition into Judaism’s 13 principles of the faith.

To watch the classes streamed live, please visit www.cocweb.org. If you would like to join in the discussion/class via Zoom, please email rabbi@cocweb.org for the meeting ID and password.

Chapel of the Good Shepherd
Our featured chaplain this week is the Rev. Virginia R. Carr, rector of St. Mark’s Episcopal Church in Boonsboro, Maryland. She sends this message: “About now we ‘need a little Christmas,’ a little ‘joy to the world,’ ‘tidings of comfort’ and for God to be ‘pleased with man as man to dwell.’ We all know that Jesus wasn’t actually born in the bleak mid-winter. Some think it was in the heat of August. Whenever his literal birth took place, it is always the right time to contemplate the incarnation. This is not the only time in which people have struggled with issues of peace and justice. In the late 1950s, Noel Regney, a French classical musician, came to the United States. He had survived, but was tormented by, the horrors of World War II, and in the ‘60s was emotionally traumatized again by the Vietnam War and the social and political unrest in this country. Struggling with severe depression, he thought back to the one moment in time when he felt there was hope for humanity — a time when he believed God had given us a chance to live without hate or fear or conflict. That time was the birth of Jesus, and in that event, he heard God speaking peace to humanity. He wrote down his thoughts in a poem and gave it to his jazz-musician wife (Gloria Shayne) asking her to set it to music. Their collaborative efforts gave us a song which still calls us to listen to, and join in with, God’s voice speaking above the din of our violent world.”

Said the night wind to the little lamb

Do you see what I see?

Way up in the sky little lamb

Do you see what I see?

A star, a star

Dancing in the night

With a tail as big as a kite

With a tail as big as a kite

 

Said the little lamb to the shepherd boy

Do you hear what I hear?

Ringing through the sky shepherd boy

Do you hear what I hear?

A song, a song

High above the trees

With a voice as big as the sea

With a voice as big as the sea

 

Said the shepherd boy to the mighty king

Do you know what I know?

In your palace wall mighty king

Do you know what I know?

A child, a child

Shivers in the cold

Let us bring him silver and gold

Let us bring him silver and gold

 

Said the king to the people everywhere

Listen to what I say

Pray for peace people everywhere

Listen to what I say

The child, the child

Sleeping in the night

He will bring us goodness and light

He will bring us goodness and light

 

He will bring us goodness and light 

Chautauqua Catholic Community
For the first time since our founding in 1985, we are unable to offer Masses, seminars, hospitality and housing on the grounds due to COVID-19.

Weekend Masses are held at 4 p.m. EDT Saturdays at Our Lady of Lourdes in Bemus Point, and at 5:30 p.m. EDT Saturdays at St. Mary of Lourdes in Mayville. Sunday Masses are at 8 a.m. and 10 a.m. EDT at Our Lady of Lourdes in Bemus Point, and 11:30 a.m. EDT at St. Mary of Lourdes in Mayville. Daily Mass is held at 8 a.m. EDT Mondays and Fridays and at 7 p.m. EDT Thursdays at the Mayville church. Daily Mass is held at 9 a.m. EDT Tuesdays and Thursdays at the Bemus Point church. Consult the website for details: stmaryoflourdesrcparish.org

Chautauqua Dialogues
Chautauqua Dialogues was established as an opportunity for Chautauquans to have meaningful engagement and conversation within the context of the Chautauqua weekly theme in an informal and small-group setting. The Chautauqua denominational houses provide the venues for these weekly discussions. More than 80 facilitators have been trained by the dialogue team led by Roger Doebke and Lynn Stahl. The Dialogues will resume in the 2021 season.

Christian Science House
The Christian Science House and Chapel join the other denominational houses in not opening this year. After more than 50 years on Bestor Plaza, we look forward to serving Chautauquans next year at our Sunday and Wednesday church services and by providing a quiet place for prayer and reflection in our study room.

Disciples of Christ
Due to the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, Chautauqua Institution has suspended in-person programming for the 2020 summer season. Therefore, our houses will not be open for summer 2020. We look forward to welcoming you to our houses during the 2021 season. 

Since 1874, we have been hosting guests in our two houses during the Chautauqua Institution summer season. With our new year-round Graybiel House, we now also offer a comfortable and welcoming venue for autumn, winter and spring retreats, workshops and meetings.

While we have a long association with the Christian Church (Disciples of Christ), we are also leaders in Chautauqua’s interfaith community, providing affordable lodging and a welcoming community for people of all faiths and all ages. 

ECOC
Friends of the Ecumenical Community of Chautauqua hope that you and your loved ones are safe and healthy. 

The Ecumenical Community (ECOC) will not be open this year for guests. The manager and the registrar will be in residence completing paperwork and projects. We welcome friends to stop by with social distancing in mind.

We look forward to being together next summer on these sacred grounds — in the Shaw House, the Bird-Werner House, the Westervelt House and in our friendly community kitchens. In the meantime, please visit the ECOC website at ecoc-chautauqua.org for updates and ways to join together virtually this summer. 

All Chautauquans are invited to gather around ECOC Virtual Kitchen Table Chats for conversation and fellowship at 7:30 p.m. EDT every Tuesday. 

Everett Jewish Life Center in Chautauqua
The Everett Jewish Life Center (EJLCC) facility is regrettably closed this summer. When we reopen, you’ll again enjoy our lecture series with presentations by distinguished scholars, a Jewish-themed film series, and a weekly Yiddish language conversation. 

Our facility offers outstanding bed-and-breakfast accommodations. For information regarding room reservations, please email us at RoomReservations@JewishCenterChautauqua.org

For additional information or questions, please email us at Admin@JewishCenterChautauqua.org

Keep healthy and safe. 

Food Pantry Donations
Hurlbut Church is accepting nonperishable food items for the Ashville Food Pantry. Donations may be dropped off at any time at the Scott entrance of Hurlbut Church.

Hebrew Congregation
The Hebrew Congregation of Chautauqua has served the Jewish community and folks from other faiths with worship, education and socialization since 1960. 

All are welcome to the Zoom Kabbalat Shabbat service of the Hebrew Congregation from 5 to 6 p.m. EDT Fridays. Following the service, there will be Break Out Rooms with rotating small groups for schmoozing until 6:30 p.m. To register, send an email request to president Larry Cohen.

A new book, Shalom Chautauqua: The Hebrew Congregation and the Jewish Presence, by Betty and Arty Salz, is hot off the press and available at the Chautauqua Bookstore. 

For any additional information, please contact congregation president Larry Cohen.

Hurlbut Memorial Community Church
Let Hurlbut Memorial Community United Methodist Church be your summer presence for summer worship on the Chautauqua grounds. In-person worship is at 9:30 a.m. EDT Sunday, Aug. 9. Please enter the Scott Street door. At this time, no nursery is available, so children must remain with their families. Everyone is required to wear face masks the entire time while in the church.

The Rev. Carmen Perry’s sermons are accessible here

International Order of the King’s Daughters and Sons
The International Order of The King’s Daughters and Sons’ (IOKDS) mission has included serving young adults in their spiritual development at Chautauqua Institution since 1920. Our newest program is the Learn and Discern college internship. With Chautauqua’s closure due to COVID-19 this season, we quickly pivoted to a virtual internship format. After sharing our syllabus with college officials at Houghton College, Valparaiso University and St. Bonaventure University, our interns will receive college credit for the virtual experience. Students have accepted the unpaid internships for brand marketing, social media communication, faith-based programming, and donor relationships. Upon successful completion of their internships, students may apply for an IOKDS scholarship here.

Islamic Community
Jum’ah, the Friday Muslim communal prayer, has traditionally been held every Friday in the Hall of Christ. This service will resume in the 2021 season. The Jum’ah service, which has been open to all, combines the traditional elements of the Muslim worship experience with the opportunity to engage the Muslim coordinator for the Abrahamic Program for Young Adults with questions to further understanding about Islam. The instructional portion begins at 12:30 p.m. EDT. The Jum’ah prayer handout is available in both Arabic and English transliteration, with detailed explanations for those who wish to join in prayer or understanding.

Labyrinth
In previous seasons, Chautauquans have had an opportunity to learn about and walk the Labyrinth, located next to Turner Community Center just north of the parking lot. Although the Labyrinth is open for quiet meditation, Norma and Wally Rees will resume their Department of Religion-sponsored orientation — which includes a brief history of the uses of the Labyrinth — in the 2021 season.

Lutheran House
While the Lutheran House is closed for in-person hosting and programming this season, we are actively sponsoring virtual programs to our guests and the Chautauqua community for the 2020 season. 

The Lutheran House hosts are sponsoring a social hour at 4:30 p.m. EDT. every Tuesday via Zoom. For an invitation, contact our hosts Sue and Jerry Keppel at lutheranhousehost@gmail.com

Mystic Heart Community Meditation
The mission of The Mystic Heart is to help participants discover and manifest peace, compassion, and kindness in themselves, in their relations with others, and in their communities.

The program continues this year with a series of 90 free, pre-recorded meditation sessions led by faculty from a variety of religious, spiritual and wisdom traditions. The sessions premiere at 8 a.m. and 1 p.m. EDT each weekday on the CHQ Assembly Virtual Porch, and are archived for later use.

Eryl Kubicka leads a session on Japanese Zen Meditation at 8 a.m. EDT Monday, Aug. 10, on the CHQ Assembly Virtual Porch. 

Kim Hehr leads a session on Kundalini Yoga Meditation at 1 p.m. EDT Monday, Aug. 10, on the CHQ Assembly Virtual Porch.

Prayers for Peace through Compassion
For many years, every morning during the season from 8:55 to 9 a.m. EDT, Chautauquans gather in the Grove to pray for peace through compassion. In 2020, all Chautauquans around the world are invited to join together from wherever they are in silent prayer and reflection for five minutes.

Presbyterian Association
The Presbyterian Association is closed for the 2020 season. We look forward and hope we will be open and welcoming of guests in 2021. 

The Presbyterian Association is both a house and a community. Our history began in 1883 to welcome Presbyterians to Chautauqua and house missionaries for summer programs. The Presbyterian Association includes all persons and provides excellent weekly accommodations and meals at prices made affordable by generous donors.

Creating a Presbyterian presence through worship, study and hospitality, the Presbyterian Association shares our beautiful and functional facility, contributes financially to Chautauqua Institution and the surrounding community, and works in cooperation with other denominational houses and religious communities.

For more information, please visit https://presbychq.org/

Religious Society of Friends (Quakers)
The Chautauqua Friends Meeting (Quakers) will not be holding Meeting for Worship or programs during the 2020 season. We are focusing on our plans for the 2021 season when we will be welcoming our first full-season Friend-in-Residence who will attend programs, be available for discussions, and create activities as needed. We will also welcome the director of the Friends Center for Racial Justice in Ithaca for a full week during the season.

Friends (Quakers) have been at Chautauqua since its earliest years. The largest gathering, estimated at 1,000, occurred during the 1900 season with the founding of Friends General Conference, an association of regional Quaker communities in the U.S. and Canada. For many decades, Friends worshipped in the Octagon Building, but in 2019 needed to relocate, as the building returned to its original use as a home for the Chautauqua Literary and Scientific Circle. In response to the need, the Unitarian Universalists made their house available to Quakers at 9:30 a.m. EDT each Sunday, enabling us to continue welcoming all to worship with us in the manner of Friends.

In 2020, we have begun to look for a permanent home to purchase on the grounds. Such a home might be only large enough to hold our Sunday morning service, or it might be large enough to house a few people as well. We look forward to updating our denominational friends in 2021.

Unitarian Universalist Fellowship of Chautauqua
Unitarian Universalists have a legacy of “deeds not creeds.” Our work for a better world calls us to harness love’s power to stop oppression. From grassroots community organizing, to interfaith state, national and corporate advocacy; in protest marches, prayer vigils and press conferences; in homeless shelters and in prisons, Unitarian Universalists put our faith into action.

Our justice efforts are grounded in our congregationally driven social justice statements and our call to break down divisions, heal isolation, and honor the interconnectedness of all life and all justice issues. At Chautauqua, we model these commitments by creating a just, welcoming and inclusive congregation. We act in partnership with groups at Chautauqua, including the LGBTQ and Friends Community, The Collaborative Union, Parents and Friends of Lesbians and Gays, and the African American Heritage House, to bring attention to the issues of diversity, equality and inclusiveness through our Sunday Services, our Ethics Week Lectures and our contribution of funding to each organization. 

The LGBTQ and Friends Community at Chautauqua have canceled all activities this season in keeping with the limitations on public gatherings during the pandemic. For information about activities for the 2021 season, including our speaker sponsorships and community events, visit lgbtq-chq.com. To receive our newsletters, sign up on our website. 

The Chautauqua PFLAG Chapter expanded beyond the Institution about a year ago. Now, in addition to its weekly meetings at the Unitarian Universalist House during the Chautauqua season, PFLAG also meets monthly during the off-season at the Patterson Library in Westfield. Since the Institution is curtailing the summer programming, PFLAG is hosting a weekly “get together” for social connection, support and to answer the inquiries and needs of the greater Chautauqua community at 6:30 p.m. EDT Wednesdays via Zoom. PFLAG’s official monthly meeting is at 6:30 p.m. EDT on the last Wednesday of every month via Zoom. If you would like to attend, please email Steve Aschmann at steveaschmann@hotmail.com. For more info, call 814-440-0902 or consult our Facebook page.

United Church of Christ
We greatly regret that all three buildings of the UCC Society will be closed throughout this summer. For further information, go to our website: cuccs.org 

We look forward to welcoming you back next summer. Stay safe and healthy. 

United Methodist
The United Methodist House was built in 1888 by the founders of the Chautauqua Assembly. Methodist Episcopal Bishop John Heyl Vincent and Lewis Miller, a philanthropist and member of the Board of Trustees, accepted a bid of $3,800 to erect a headquarters building. Amazingly, the construction was completed in 90 days and ready for the 1888 Assembly. In the early days, it housed meeting rooms, a ladies parlor, a library and public toilets.

The United Methodist House today is a year-round center. In the summer months, rooms are rented by the week. Once the Chautauqua summer season has ended, the house is rented by groups for retreats, family reunions, craft gatherings, etc. More information is available on our website, umhouse.com, and Facebook: United Methodist House – Chautauqua Institution.

While we are sorry and sad to not be there to greet visitors this summer, all are welcome and encouraged to visit the porch in 2021, when we can enjoy the wicker rockers, have something cool to drink, meet with old friends and make new ones, or just sit and watch the constant stream of interesting folks who stroll by the house. Until then, stay safe and count your blessings!

Unity of Chautauqua
This summer, Unity will explore “Trusting the Process of Change Using Life’s Changes for Spiritual Awakening” during the 9:15 a.m. EDT Sunday meetings via Zoom. Topics addressed are:

  • Understanding the nature of change and the dynamics of the transition process.
  • Discovering deeper meaning in the disturbing and unsettling events in our individual lives and in the world.
  • Navigating life’s changes and challenges using the Biblical Exodus story.
  • Bringing forth our “best” selves as we allow a greater Reality to direct our lives.

The Rev. Barbara Williams presents “Wandering in the Wilderness” at 9:15 a.m. EDT Sunday, Aug. 9, via Zoom. “We now step into the wilderness. We feel lost and vulnerable as did the Children of Israel,” Williams said. “Yet we have a ‘Moses’ within us – one who has had wilderness training.” 

For more information about Unity of Chautauqua and how to access the Zoom meeting, visit unitychq.org.

Interfaith News for August 6

interfaith_news

Chautauqua Catholic Community
Daily Mass is held at 8 a.m. Mondays and Fridays and at 7 p.m. Thursdays at St. Mary of Lourdes in Mayville. Daily Mass is held at 9 a.m. Tuesdays and Thursdays at Our Lady of Lourdes in Bemus Point. Consult the website for details: https://www.stmaryoflourdesrcparish.org

Chabad Jewish House
Esther Vilenkin presents “Medical Ethics” from 9:30 to 10:30 a.m. EDT Thursday, Aug. 6, via Zoom and YouTube. As new ethical matters arise, Judaism offers Divine guidelines to these often complex issues. These discussions explore medical ethics issues through the lenses of Jewish law.

Rabbi Zalman Vilenkin presents “Kabbalah and Meditation” from 9:30 to 10:30 a.m. EDT Friday, Aug. 7, via Zoom and YouTube. This class delves into the steps in the process of hitbonenut in the Jewish mystical tradition. The steps of Jewish meditation through history are retraced, beginning with the Biblical prophets to the Talmudic sages and Jewish mystics.

The Miriam Gurary Challah Baking Series continues this season from 12:15 to 1 p.m. EDT Friday, Aug. 7, via Zoom and YouTube. Discover the meaning of Shabbat foods and rituals while making and braiding challah. 

To watch the classes streamed live, please visit www.cocweb.org. If you would like to join in the discussions and classes via Zoom, click here.

Shabbat candle lighting is 8:11 p.m. EDT Friday, Aug. 7. 

Hebrew Congregation
With a bit of ingenuity, we are continuing our tradition of a Kabbalat Shabbat service at 5 p.m. EDT Friday, August 7, via Zoom. Cantorial Song Leader Susan Goldberg Schwartz will lead it from her home in Buffalo with a beautiful Chautauqua Lake scene in the background. Join us at 4:45 p.m. EDT for 15 minutes of meet and greet before the service begins. Following the service, there will be Break Out Rooms with rotating small groups for schmoozing until 6:30 p.m.

To register, send an email request to president Larry Cohen.

Please download or obtain a prayer book before the service. For those who are at Chautauqua, you may borrow a copy of our prayer book from Arty Salz at 4 Ames (716-357-2001) to be returned at the end of your stay. For those not at Chautauqua, the prayer book is available here. The downloaded PDF file can be printed for your personal use. 

If you have not downloaded the prayer book in advance, click on the Chat icon in Zoom, and the link to the prayer book will be posted as a PDF file.

If you have a loved one having a yahrtzeit who you would like named in our service, or someone who should be named in our Mi Shebeirach – Prayer of Healing, send their names to Renee Andrews at reneebandrews@gmail.com.

Mystic Heart Community Meditation
The mission of The Mystic Heart is to help participants discover and manifest peace, compassion, and kindness in themselves, in their relations with others, and in their communities.

Michael O’Sullivan leads a session on Korean Zen Meditation at 8 a.m. EDT Thursday, Aug. 6, on the CHQ Assembly Virtual Porch. 

Bob Zuiryu Moore leads a session on Soto Zen Meditation at 1 p.m. EDT Thursday, Aug. 6, on the CHQ Assembly Virtual Porch.

Larry Terkel leads a session on Judaism and the Kabbalah at 8 a.m. EDT Friday, Aug. 7, on the CHQ Assembly Virtual Porch.

Subagh Khalsa leads a session on Sikh Dharma Meditation at 1 p.m. EDT Friday, Aug. 7, on the CHQ Assembly Virtual Porch.

Prayers for Peace through Compassion
For many years, every morning during the season from 8:55 to 9 a.m., Chautauquans gather in the Grove to pray for peace through compassion. In 2020, all Chautauquans around the world are invited to join together from wherever they are in silent prayer and reflection for five minutes.

Interfaith News for August 4

interfaith_news

Chabad Jewish House
A full season of activities, including services and classes, has been planned by the Zigdon Chabad Jewish House at 23 Vincent. Visit cocweb.org for the schedule and information about logging into the services and classes.

Rabbi Zalman Vilenkin presents “Talmudic Everyday Ethics” from 9:30 to 10:30 a.m. EDT Tuesday, Aug. 4, via Zoom and YouTube. These discussions focus on everyday ethical issues and use the Talmud and other Jewish sources as its guide.

Vilenkin presents “Jewish Psychology” from 9:30 to 10:30 a.m. EDT Wednesday, Aug. 5, via Zoom and YouTube. Join us and study the Jewish model of human psychology and how to apply it to life.

To watch the classes streamed live, please visit www.cocweb.org. If you would like to join in the discussion/class via Zoom, please email rabbi@cocweb.org for the meeting ID and password.

Chapel of the Good Shepherd
Since we cannot socialize in person this season, here is a serving of Social Tea to enjoy:

“Sixty runners will not overtake him who breakfasts early.” — Baba Kamma, Talmud

Chautauqua Catholic Community
Daily Mass is held at 8 a.m. Mondays and Fridays and at 7 p.m. Thursdays at St. Mary of Lourdes in Mayville. Daily Mass is held at 9 a.m. Tuesdays and Thursdays at Our Lady of Lourdes in Bemus Point. Consult the website for details: https://www.stmaryoflourdesrcparish.org

Hebrew Congregation
All are welcome to the Zoom Kabbalat Shabbat service of the Hebrew Congregation from 5 to 6 p.m. EDT on Fridays. Following the service, there will be Break Out Rooms with rotating small groups for schmoozing until 6:30 p.m. To register, send an email request to president Larry Cohen.

Lutheran House
Our social hour is at 4:30 p.m. EDT every Tuesday via Zoom. For an invitation, contact our hosts Sue and Jerry Keppel at lutheranhousehost@gmail.com

Mystic Heart Community Meditation
The mission of The Mystic Heart is to help participants discover and manifest peace, compassion, and kindness in themselves, in their relations with others, and in their communities. 

Bob Zuiryu Moore leads a session on Soto Zen Meditation at 8 a.m. EDT Tuesday, Aug. 4, on the CHQ Assembly Virtual Porch.

Jim Leff leads a session in Introduction to Sufi Meditation and Breath at 1 p.m. EDT Tuesday, Aug. 4, on the CHQ Assembly Virtual Porch.

Kim Hehr leads a session on Kundalini Yoga Meditation for Balance at 8 a.m. EDT Wednesday, Aug. 5, on the CHQ Assembly Virtual Porch.

David Gluck leads a session on Hindu Based Meditation at 1 p.m. EDT Wednesday, Aug. 5, on the CHQ Assembly Virtual Porch. 

Prayers for Peace through Compassion
For many years, every morning during the season from 8:55 to 9 a.m., Chautauquans have gathered in the Grove to pray for peace through compassion. In 2020, all Chautauquans around the world are invited to join together from wherever they are in silent prayer and reflection for five minutes.   

Unitarian Universalist Fellowship of Chautauqua
Parents, Families, and Friends of Lesbians and Gays (PFLAG) host a weekly “get together” for social connection, support, and to answer the inquiries and needs of the greater Chautauqua community at 6 p.m. EDT Wednesdays via Zoom. If you would like to attend, please email steveaschmann@hotmail.com.

Women in Ministry
Women who are involved in ministry are welcome to attend our noon meeting every Wednesday via Zoom. Email janeedmccarthy@gmail.com by the evening of Tuesday, Aug. 4, to receive an invitation.

Interfaith News for August 1

interfaith_news

Abrahamic Program for Young Adults

APYA, founded 15 years ago, is designed to reflect the efforts and mission of the Department of Religion by teaching young adults at Chautauqua Institution about the shared heritage of the Abrahamic traditions. Programming has been suspended for the 2020 season due to the COVID-19 pandemic and will resume in 2021.

Baptist House

Located on the red brick walk in the heart of Chautauqua Institution, the Baptist House has been engaged in the hospitality ministry since 1887. Our house provides a comfortable haven to meet new friends, learn through conversations on covered porches, and share experiences and life lessons as we renew our spirit on these beautiful grounds. Our mission at the Baptist House is to offer a welcoming retreat for all to fellowship, worship, rejuvenate and minister to the needs of all visitors who enter our door. We eagerly anticipate gathering again in person next year!

Blessing and Healing Daily Service

The Service of Blessing and Healing, sponsored by the Department of Religion, had traditionally taken place from 10:15 to 10:45 a.m. EDT weekdays in the Randell Chapel of the United Church of Christ Headquarters. These services will resume in the 2021 season.

Chabad Jewish House

A full season of activities, including services and classes, has been planned by the Zigdon Chabad Jewish House, 23 Vincent. Visit cocweb.org for the schedule and information about logging into the services and classes.

Shabbat ends at 9:24 p.m. EDT Saturday, Aug. 1.

Rabbi Zalman Vilenkin presents “Maimonides – Principles of Faith” from 9:30 to 10:30 a.m. EDT Monday, Aug. 3, via Zoom and YouTube. This class is not an exposition but rather an expedition into Judaism’s 13 principles of the faith.

To watch the classes streamed live, please visit www.cocweb.org. If you would like to join in the discussion/class via Zoom, please email rabbi@cocweb.org for the meeting ID and password.

Chapel of the Good Shepherd

Our featured chaplain this week is the Very Rev. Aidan Smith, dean and provost of Trinity Episcopal Cathedral in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. He sends this message: 

“Repeatedly, Jesus shows us that his way is not the way of the world. ‘You’ve observed how godless rulers throw their weight around,’ he said, ‘and when people get a little power how quickly it goes to their heads.’ As disciples, we strive to follow Jesus on his way to Jerusalem. But we fall prey to the temptation to submit to, and participate in, the ways of the world. We grasp for power, we long for control and we easily take our eyes off Jesus. Like the first disciples, we face the tendency to accomplish great, even holy, tasks in the ways of the world … sometimes even climbing over the weak, the silent, or the feeble in order to fulfill our goals. Jesus presents a different way,” Smith wrote. “Following him leads to the cross. Jesus chose to give of himself for the restoration of this world, and he invites us to share in his ministry of healing and redemption. We do this by giving of our lives for the salvation and restoration of others; by following Jesus in the path of downward mobility; by dying to ourselves and to the world. We choose to serve. We share in changing the world by following Jesus in the way of the cross — ‘Even the Son of Man came not to be served but to serve, and to give his life as a ransom for many.’ Who is God calling you to lay down your life for today?”

Chautauqua Catholic Community

For the first time since our founding in 1985, we are unable to offer Masses, seminars, hospitality and housing on the grounds due to COVID-19.

Weekend Masses are held at 4 p.m. EDT Saturdays at Our Lady of Lourdes in Bemus Point, and at 5:30 p.m. EDT Saturdays at St. Mary of Lourdes in Mayville. Sunday Masses are at 8 a.m. and 10 a.m. EDT at Our Lady of Lourdes in Bemus Point, and 11:30 a.m. EDT at St. Mary of Lourdes in Mayville. Daily Mass is held at 8 a.m. EDT Mondays and Fridays and at 7 p.m. EDT Thursdays at the Mayville church. Daily Mass is held at 9 a.m. EDT Tuesdays and Thursdays at the Bemus Point church. Consult the website for details: stmaryoflourdesrcparish.org

Chautauqua Dialogues

Chautauqua Dialogues was established as an opportunity for Chautauquans to have meaningful engagement and conversation within the context of the Chautauqua weekly theme in an informal and small-group setting. The Chautauqua denominational houses provide the venues for these weekly discussions. More than 80 facilitators have been trained by the dialogue team led by Roger Doebke and Lynn Stahl. The Dialogues will resume in the 2021 season.

Christian Science House

The Christian Science House and Chapel join the other denominational houses in not opening this year. After more than 50 years on Bestor Plaza, we look forward to serving Chautauquans next year at our Sunday and Wednesday church services and by providing a quiet place for prayer and reflection in our study room.

Disciples of Christ

Due to the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, Chautauqua Institution has suspended in-person programming for the 2020 summer season. Therefore, our houses will not be open for summer 2020. We look forward to welcoming you to our houses during the 2021 season. 

Since 1874, we have been hosting guests in our two houses during the Chautauqua Institution summer season. With our new year-round Graybiel House, we now also offer a comfortable and welcoming venue for autumn, winter and spring retreats, workshops and meetings.

While we have a long association with the Christian Church (Disciples of Christ), we are also leaders in Chautauqua’s interfaith community, providing affordable lodging and a welcoming community for people of all faiths and all ages. 

ECOC

Friends of the Ecumenical Community of Chautauqua hope that you and your loved ones are safe and healthy. 

The Ecumenical Community (ECOC) will not be open this year for guests. The manager and the registrar will be in residence completing paperwork and projects. We welcome friends to stop by with social distancing in mind.

We look forward to being together next summer on these sacred grounds — in the Shaw House, the Bird-Werner House, the Westervelt House and in our friendly community kitchens. In the meantime, please visit the ECOC website at ecoc-chautauqua.org for updates and ways to join together virtually this summer. 

All Chautauquans are invited to gather around ECOC Virtual Kitchen Table Chats for conversation and fellowship at 7:30 p.m. EDT every Tuesday. 

Everett Jewish Life Center in Chautauqua

The Everett Jewish Life Center (EJLCC) facility is regrettably closed this summer. When we reopen, you’ll again enjoy our lecture series with presentations by distinguished scholars, a Jewish-themed film series, and a weekly Yiddish language conversation. 

Our facility offers outstanding bed-and-breakfast accommodations. For information regarding room reservations, please email us at RoomReservations@JewishCenterChautauqua.org

For additional information or questions, please email us at Admin@JewishCenterChautauqua.org

Keep healthy and safe. 

Food Pantry Donations

Hurlbut Church is accepting nonperishable food items for the Ashville Food Pantry. Donations may be dropped off at any time at the Scott entrance of Hurlbut Church.

Hebrew Congregation

The Hebrew Congregation of Chautauqua has served the Jewish community and folks from other faiths with worship, education and socialization since 1960. 

All are welcome to the Zoom Kabbalat Shabbat service of the Hebrew Congregation from 5 to 6 p.m. Fridays. To register, send an email request to president Larry Cohen.

A new book, Shalom Chautauqua: The Hebrew Congregation and the Jewish Presence, by Betty and Arty Salz, is hot off the press and available at the Chautauqua Bookstore. For any additional information, please contact congregation president Larry Cohen.

Hurlbut Memorial Community Church

Let Hurlbut Memorial Community United Methodist Church be your summer presence for summer worship on the Chautauqua grounds. Hurlbut Church starts in-person worship at 9:30 a.m. EDT Sunday, Aug. 2. Please enter the Scott Street door. At this time, no nursery is available, so children must remain with their families. Everyone is required to wear face masks the entire time while in the church.

The Rev. Carmen Perry’s sermons are accessible here

International Order of the King’s Daughters and Sons

The International Order of The King’s Daughters and Sons’ (IOKDS) mission has included serving young adults in their spiritual development at Chautauqua Institution since 1920. Our newest program is the Learn and Discern college internship. With Chautauqua’s closure due to COVID-19 this season, we quickly pivoted to a virtual internship format. After sharing our syllabus with college officials at Houghton College, Valparaiso University and St. Bonaventure University, our interns will receive college credit for the virtual experience. Students have accepted the unpaid internships for brand marketing, social media communication, faith-based programming, and donor relationships. Upon successful completion of their internships, students may apply for an IOKDS scholarship here.

Islamic Community

Jum’ah, the Friday Muslim communal prayer, has traditionally been held every Friday in the Hall of Christ. This service will resume in the 2021 season. The Jum’ah service, which has been open to all, combines the traditional elements of the Muslim worship experience with the opportunity to engage the Muslim coordinator for the Abrahamic Program for Young Adults with questions to further understanding about Islam. The instructional portion begins at 12:30 p.m. EDT. The Jum’ah prayer handout is available in both Arabic and English transliteration, with detailed explanations for those who wish to join in prayer or understanding.

Labyrinth 

In previous seasons, Chautauquans have had an opportunity to learn about and walk the Labyrinth, located next to Turner Community Center just north of the parking lot. Although the Labyrinth is open for quiet meditation, Norma and Wally Rees will resume their Department of Religion-sponsored orientation — which includes a brief history of the uses of the Labyrinth — in the 2021 season.

Lutheran House

While the Lutheran House is closed for in-person hosting and programming this season, we are actively sponsoring virtual programs to our guests and the Chautauqua community for the 2020 season. 

The Lutheran House hosts are sponsoring a social hour at 4:30 p.m. EDT. every Tuesday via Zoom. For an invitation, contact our hosts Sue and Jerry Keppel at lutheranhousehost@gmail.com

Mystic Heart Community Meditation

The mission of The Mystic Heart is to help participants discover and manifest peace, compassion, and kindness in themselves, in their relations with others, and in their communities.

The program continues this year with a series of 90 free, pre-recorded meditation sessions led by faculty from a variety of religious, spiritual and wisdom traditions. The sessions premiere at 8 a.m. and 1 p.m. EDT each weekday on the CHQ Assembly Virtual Porch, and are archived for later use.

Michael O’Sullivan leads a session on Korean Zen Meditation at 8 a.m. EDT Monday, Aug. 3, on the CHQ Assembly Virtual Porch.

Rebecca Cole Turner leads a session on Christian Meditation at 1 p.m. EDT Monday, Aug. 3, on the CHQ Assembly Virtual Porch.

Prayers for Peace through Compassion

For many years, every morning during the season from 8:55 to 9 a.m. EDT, Chautauquans gather in the Grove to pray for peace through compassion. In 2020, all Chautauquans around the world are invited to join together from wherever they are in silent prayer and reflection for five minutes.

Presbyterian Association

The Presbyterian Association is closed for the 2020 season. We look forward and hope we will be open and welcoming of guests in 2021. 

The Presbyterian Association is both a house and a community. Our history began in 1883 to welcome Presbyterians to Chautauqua and house missionaries for summer programs. The Presbyterian Association includes all persons and provides excellent weekly accommodations and meals at prices made affordable by generous donors.

Creating a Presbyterian presence through worship, study and hospitality, the Presbyterian Association shares our beautiful and functional facility, contributes financially to Chautauqua Institution and the surrounding community, and works in cooperation with other denominational houses and religious communities.

For more information, please visit https://presbychq.org/

Religious Society of Friends (Quakers)

The Chautauqua Friends Meeting (Quakers) will not be holding Meeting for Worship or programs during the 2020 season. We are focusing on our plans for the 2021 season when we will be welcoming our first full-season Friend-in-Residence who will attend programs, be available for discussions, and create activities as needed. We will also welcome the director of the Friends Center for Racial Justice in Ithaca for a full week during the season.

Friends (Quakers) have been at Chautauqua since its earliest years. The largest gathering, estimated at 1,000, occurred during the 1900 season with the founding of Friends General Conference, an association of regional Quaker communities in the U.S. and Canada. For many decades, Friends worshipped in the Octagon Building, but in 2019 needed to relocate, as the building returned to its original use as a home for the Chautauqua Literary and Scientific Circle. In response to the need, the Unitarian Universalists made their house available to Quakers at 9:30 a.m. EDT each Sunday, enabling us to continue welcoming all to worship with us in the manner of Friends.

In 2020, we have begun to look for a permanent home to purchase on the grounds. Such a home might be only large enough to hold our Sunday morning service, or it might be large enough to house a few people as well. We look forward to updating our denominational friends in 2021.

Unitarian Universalist Fellowship of Chautauqua

Unitarian Universalists have a legacy of “deeds not creeds.” Our work for a better world calls us to harness love’s power to stop oppression. From grassroots community organizing, to interfaith state, national and corporate advocacy; in protest marches, prayer vigils and press conferences; in homeless shelters and in prisons, Unitarian Universalists put our faith into action.

Our justice efforts are grounded in our congregationally driven social justice statements and our call to break down divisions, heal isolation, and honor the interconnectedness of all life and all justice issues. At Chautauqua, we model these commitments by creating a just, welcoming and inclusive congregation. We act in partnership with groups at Chautauqua, including the LGBTQ and Friends Community, The Collaborative Union, Parents and Friends of Lesbians and Gays, and the African American Heritage House, to bring attention to the issues of diversity, equality and inclusiveness through our Sunday Services, our Ethics Week Lectures and our contribution of funding to each organization. 

The LGBTQ and Friends Community at Chautauqua have canceled all activities this season in keeping with the limitations on public gatherings during the pandemic. For information about activities for the 2021 season, including our speaker sponsorships and community events, visit lgbtq-chq.com. To receive our newsletters, sign up on our website. 

The Chautauqua PFLAG Chapter expanded beyond the Institution about a year ago. Now, in addition to its weekly meetings at the Unitarian Universalist House during the Chautauqua season, PFLAG also meets monthly during the off-season at the Patterson Library in Westfield. Since the Institution is curtailing the summer programming, PFLAG is hosting a weekly “get together” for social connection, support and to answer the inquiries and needs of the greater Chautauqua community at 6:30 p.m. EDT Wednesdays via Zoom. PFLAG’s official monthly meeting is at 6:30 p.m. EDT on the last Wednesday of every month via Zoom. If you would like to attend, please email Steve Aschmann at steveaschmann@hotmail.com. For more info, call 814-440-0902 or consult our Facebook page.

United Church of Christ

We greatly regret that all three buildings of the UCC Society will be closed throughout this summer. For further information, go to our website: cuccs.org 

We look forward to welcoming you back next summer. Stay safe and healthy. 

United Methodist

The United Methodist House was built in 1888 by the founders of the Chautauqua Assembly. Methodist Episcopal Bishop John Heyl Vincent and Lewis Miller, a philanthropist and member of the Board of Trustees, accepted a bid of $3,800 to erect a headquarters building. Amazingly, the construction was completed in 90 days and ready for the 1888 Assembly. In the early days, it housed meeting rooms, a ladies parlor, a library and public toilets.

The United Methodist House today is a year-round center. In the summer months, rooms are rented by the week. Once the Chautauqua summer season has ended, the house is rented by groups for retreats, family reunions, craft gatherings, etc. More information is available on our website, umhouse.com, and Facebook: United Methodist House – Chautauqua Institution.

While we are sorry and sad to not be there to greet visitors this summer, all are welcome and encouraged to visit the porch in 2021, when we can enjoy the wicker rockers, have something cool to drink, meet with old friends and make new ones, or just sit and watch the constant stream of interesting folks who stroll by the house. Until then, stay safe and count your blessings!

Unity of Chautauqua

This summer, Unity will explore “Trusting the Process of Change Using Life’s Changes for Spiritual Awakening” during the 9:15 a.m. EDT Sunday meetings via Zoom. Topics addressed are:

  • Understanding the nature of change and the dynamics of the transition process.
  • Discovering deeper meaning in the disturbing and unsettling events in our individual lives and in the world.
  • Navigating life’s changes and challenges using the Biblical Exodus story.
  • Bringing forth our “best” selves as we allow a greater Reality to direct our lives.

Janine Chimera, Unity of Chautauqua music director, presents “Everything is Sound” at 9:15 a.m. EDT Sunday, Aug. 2, via Zoom. She explores “sounds are an expression of Source. How do we consciously play our life songs?” Janine, who was born and raised in Jamestown but has lived in Florida for 31 years, is a singer-songwriter. Her passion is for music and matters of spirit and of the heart. Combining these led her to dive into the worlds of therapeutic music, sound vibrational therapy and group drumming. She also gives music lessons and has used music to work with students with special needs. She plays guitar, piano, hand drums, and Native American flute. She recorded and released two CDs. Her greatest desire is for her music to be an instrument for peace and healing. 

For more information about Unity of Chautauqua and how to access the Zoom meeting, visit unitychq.org.

Interfaith News for July 30

interfaith_news

Chautauqua Catholic Community

Daily Mass is held at 8 a.m. Mondays and Fridays and at 7 p.m. Thursdays at St. Mary of Lourdes in Mayville. Daily Mass is held at 9 a.m. Tuesdays and Thursdays at Our Lady of Lourdes in Bemus Point. Consult the website for details: https://www.stmaryoflourdesrcparish.org

Chabad Jewish House 

Thursday, July 30, is Tisha B’Av, a fast day.

The Miriam Gurary Challah Baking Series continues this season from 12:15 to 1 p.m. EDT Friday, July 31, via Zoom and YouTube. Discover the meaning of Shabbat foods and rituals while making and braiding challah. 

To watch the classes streamed live, please visit www.cocweb.org. If you would like to join in the discussions and classes via Zoom, click here.

Shabbat candle lighting is 8:19 p.m. EDT Friday, July 31. 

Hebrew Congregation 

With a bit of ingenuity, we are continuing our tradition of a Kabbalat Shabbat service at 5 p.m. EDT Friday, July 31, via Zoom. Cantorial Song Leader Susan Goldberg Schwartz will lead it from her home in Buffalo with a beautiful Chautauqua Lake scene in the background. Join us at 4:45 p.m. EDT for 15 minutes of meet and greet before the service begins. 

To register, send an email request to president Larry Cohen.

Please download or obtain a prayer book before the service. For those who are at Chautauqua, you may borrow a copy of our prayer book from Arty Salz at 4 Ames (716-357-2001) to be returned at the end of your stay. For those not at Chautauqua, the prayer book is available here. The downloaded PDF file can be printed for your personal use. 

If you have not downloaded the prayer book in advance, click on the Chat icon in Zoom, and the link to the prayer book will be posted as a PDF file.

If you have a loved one having a yahrtzeit who you would like named in our service, or someone who should be named in our Mi Shebeirach – Prayer of Healing, send their names to Renee Andrews at reneebandrews@gmail.com.

Mystic Heart Community Meditation

The mission of The Mystic Heart is to help participants discover and manifest peace, compassion, and kindness in themselves, in their relations with others, and in their communities.

Wayman Kubicka leads a session on Japanese Zen – The Full Potential of Meditation at 8 a.m. EDT Thursday, July 30, on the CHQ Assembly Virtual Porch.  

Kainat Felicia Norton leads a session on Sufi Meditation at 1 p.m. EDT Thursday, July 30, on the CHQ Assembly Virtual Porch.

Carol McKiernan leads a session on Centering Prayer at 8 a.m. EDT Friday, July 31 on the CHQ Assembly Virtual Porch.

Larry Terkel leads a session on Judaism and the Kabbalah at 1 p.m. EDT Friday, July 31, on the CHQ Assembly Virtual Porch.

Prayers for Peace through Compassion

For many years, every morning during the season from 8:55 to 9 a.m., Chautauquans gather in the Grove to pray for peace through compassion. In 2020, all Chautauquans around the world are invited to join together from wherever they are in silent prayer and reflection for five minutes.

Interfaith News for July 28

interfaith_news

Chabad Jewish House

A full season of activities, including services and classes, has been planned by the Zigdon Chabad Jewish House at 23 Vincent. Visit cocweb.org for the schedule and information about logging into the services and classes.

Rabbi Zalman Vilenkin presents “Talmudic Everyday Ethics” from 9:30 to 10:30 a.m. EDT Tuesday, July 28, via Zoom and YouTube. These discussions focus on everyday ethical issues and use the Talmud and other Jewish sources as its guide.

Vilenkin presents “Jewish Psychology” from 9:30 to 10:30 a.m. EDT Wednesday, July 29, via Zoom and YouTube. Join us and study the Jewish model of human psychology and how to apply it to life.

To watch the classes streamed live, please visit www.cocweb.org. If you would like to join in the discussion/class via Zoom, please email rabbi@cocweb.org for the meeting ID and password.

Chapel of the Good Shepherd

Since we cannot socialize in person this season, here is a serving of Social Tea to enjoy:

“Sometimes one meal prevents many meals.” —  Zabara, Sefer Shaashuim

Chautauqua Catholic Community

Daily Mass is held at 8 a.m. Mondays and Fridays and at 7 p.m. Thursdays at St. Mary of Lourdes in Mayville. Daily Mass is held at 9 a.m. Tuesdays and Thursdays at Our Lady of Lourdes in Bemus Point. Consult the website for details: https://www.stmaryoflourdesrcparish.org

Hebrew Congregation

All are welcome to the Zoom Kabbalat Shabbat service of the Hebrew Congregation from 5 to 6 p.m. EDT on Fridays. To register, send an email request to president Larry Cohen.

Lutheran House 

Our social hour is at 4:30 p.m. EDT every Tuesday via Zoom. For an invitation, contact our hosts Sue and Jerry Keppel at lutheranhousehost@gmail.com

Mystic Heart Community Meditation

The mission of The Mystic Heart is to help participants discover and manifest peace, compassion, and kindness in themselves, in their relations with others, and in their communities. 

Michael O‘Sullivan leads a session on Korean Zen Meditation at 8 a.m. EDT Tuesday, July 28, on the CHQ Assembly Virtual Porch.

David Gluck leads a session in Hindu-Based Kosha Meditation at 1 p.m. EDT Tuesday, July 28, on the CHQ Assembly Virtual Porch.

Kim Hehr leads a session on Sufi Meditation on the Breath at 8 a.m. EDT Wednesday, July 29, on the CHQ Assembly Virtual Porch.

Subagh Khalsa leads a session on Kundalini Yoga Meditation at 8 a.m. EDT Wednesday, July 29, on the CHQ Assembly Virtual Porch. 

Prayers for Peace through Compassion 

For many years, every morning during the season from 8:55 to 9 a.m., Chautauquans have gathered in the Grove to pray for peace through compassion. In 2020, all Chautauquans around the world are invited to join together from wherever they are in silent prayer and reflection for five minutes.

Unitarian Universalist Fellowship of Chautauqua

Parents, Families, and Friends of Lesbians and Gays (PFLAG) host a weekly “get together” for social connection, support, and to answer the inquiries and needs of the greater Chautauqua community at 6 p.m. EDT Wednesdays via Zoom. If you would like to attend, please email steveaschmann@hotmail.com.

Women in Ministry

Women who are involved in ministry are welcome to attend our noon meeting every Wednesday via Zoom. Email janeedmccarthy@gmail.com by the evening of Tuesday, July 28, to receive an invitation.

Interfaith News for July 25 & 26

interfaith_news

Abrahamic Program for Young Adults

APYA, founded 15 years ago, is designed to reflect the efforts and mission of the Department of Religion by teaching young adults at Chautauqua Institution about the shared heritage of the Abrahamic traditions. Programming has been suspended for the 2020 season due to the COVID-19 pandemic and will resume in 2021.

Baptist House

Located on the red brick walk in the heart of Chautauqua Institution, the Baptist House has been engaged in the hospitality ministry since 1887. Our house provides a comfortable haven to meet new friends, learn through conversations on covered porches, and share experiences and life lessons as we renew our spirit on these beautiful grounds. Our mission at the Baptist House is to offer a welcoming retreat for all to fellowship, worship, rejuvenate and minister to the needs of all visitors who enter our door. We eagerly anticipate gathering again in person next year!

Blessing and Healing Daily Service

The Service of Blessing and Healing, sponsored by the Department of Religion, had traditionally taken place from 10:15 to 10:45 a.m. EDT weekdays in the Randell Chapel of the United Church of Christ Headquarters. These services will resume in the 2021 season.

Chabad Jewish House

A full season of activities, including services and classes, has been planned by the Zigdon Chabad Jewish House, 23 Vincent. Visit cocweb.org for the schedule and information about logging into the services and classes.

Shabbat ends at 9:32 p.m. EDT Saturday, July 25.

Rabbi Zalman Vilenkin presents “Maimonides – Principles of Faith” from 9:30 to 10:30 a.m. EDT Monday, July 27, via Zoom and YouTube. This class is not an exposition but rather an expedition into Judaism’s 13 principles of the faith.

To watch the classes streamed live, please visit www.cocweb.org. If you would like to join in the discussion/class via Zoom, please email rabbi@cocweb.org for the meeting ID and password.

Chapel of the Good Shepherd

Our featured chaplain this week is the Rev. Valerie Hart, Ph.D., TSSF, an assistant priest at St. Paul’s Episcopal Church in Tustin, California. She sends this message:

Genesis 32:24-28 —

“He was alone wrestling with a man who said,

‘Let me go.’

‘You will not go, unless you bless me.’

‘What is your name?’

‘Jacob.’

‘No longer Jacob, but Israel,

You strove with God and with humans,

and prevailed.’”

“With this pandemic we are left alone, all struggling with something, physical, emotional

spiritual or societal. Jacob encourages us to hold on, continue to wrestle, and seek out the blessings found through the pain,” Hart said. “All will be different when we have prevailed against this virus. What that looks like depends upon what blessings we gather along the way.”

Chautauqua Catholic Community

For the first time since our founding in 1985, we are unable to offer Masses, seminars, hospitality and housing on the grounds due to COVID-19.

Weekend Masses are held at 4 p.m. Saturdays at Our Lady of Lourdes in Bemus Point, and at 5:30 p.m. EDT Saturdays at St. Mary of Lourdes in Mayville. Sunday Masses are at 8 a.m. and 10 a.m. EDT at Our Lady of Lourdes in Bemus Point, and 11:30 a.m. EDT at St. Mary of Lourdes in Mayville. Daily Mass is held at 8 a.m. Mondays and Fridays and at 7 p.m. EDT Thursdays at the Mayville church. Daily Mass is held at 9 a.m. EDT Tuesdays and Thursdays at the Bemus Point church. Consult the website for details: stmaryoflourdesrcparish.org

Chautauqua Dialogues

Chautauqua Dialogues was established as an opportunity for Chautauquans to have meaningful engagement and conversation within the context of the Chautauqua weekly theme in an informal and small-group setting. The Chautauqua denominational houses provide the venues for these weekly discussions. More than 80 facilitators have been trained by the dialogue team led by Roger Doebke and Lynn Stahl. The Dialogues will resume in the 2021 season.

Christian Science House

The Christian Science House and Chapel join the other denominational houses in not opening this year. After more than 50 years on Bestor Plaza, we look forward to serving Chautauquans next year at our Sunday and Wednesday church services and by providing a quiet place for prayer and reflection in our study room.

Disciples of Christ

Due to the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, Chautauqua Institution has suspended in-person programming for the 2020 summer season. Therefore, our houses will not be open for summer 2020. We look forward to welcoming you to our houses during the 2021 season. 

Since 1874, we have been hosting guests in our two houses during the Chautauqua Institution summer season. With our new year-round Graybiel House, we now also offer a comfortable and welcoming venue for autumn, winter and spring retreats, workshops and meetings.

While we have a long association with the Christian Church (Disciples of Christ), we are also leaders in Chautauqua’s interfaith community, providing affordable lodging and a welcoming community for people of all faiths and all ages. 

ECOC

Friends of the Ecumenical Community of Chautauqua hope that you and your loved ones are safe and healthy. 

The Ecumenical Community (ECOC) will not be open this year for guests. The manager and the registrar will be in residence completing paperwork and projects. We welcome friends to stop by with social distancing in mind.

We look forward to being together next summer on these sacred grounds — in the Shaw House, the Bird-Werner House, the Westervelt House and in our friendly community kitchens. In the meantime, please visit the ECOC website at ecoc-chautauqua.org for updates and ways to join together virtually this summer. 

All Chautauquans are invited to gather around ECOC Virtual Kitchen Table Chats for conversation and fellowship at 7:30 p.m. EDT every Tuesday. 

Everett Jewish Life Center in Chautauqua

The Everett Jewish Life Center (EJLCC) facility is regrettably closed this summer. When we reopen, you’ll again enjoy our lecture series with presentations by distinguished scholars, a Jewish-themed film series, and a weekly Yiddish language conversation. 

Our facility offers outstanding bed-and-breakfast accommodations. For information regarding room reservations, please email us at RoomReservations@JewishCenterChautauqua.org

For additional information or questions, please email us at Admin@JewishCenterChautauqua.org

Keep healthy and safe. 

Food Pantry Donations

Hurlbut Church is accepting nonperishable food items for the Ashville Food Pantry. Donations may be dropped off at any time at the Scott entrance of Hurlbut Church.

Hebrew Congregation

The Hebrew Congregation of Chautauqua has served the Jewish community and folks from other faiths with worship, education and socialization since 1960. Consult Tuesday’s Interfaith News for information on the Kabbalat Shabbat service on Friday, July 31. To register for the Kabbalat Shabbat service on Friday, July 31, on Zoom, click here before noon Thursday, July 30.

A new book, Shalom Chautauqua: The Hebrew Congregation and the Jewish Presence, by Betty and Arty Salz, is hot off the press and available at the Chautauqua Bookstore. For any additional information, please contact congregation president Larry Cohen at lcohen@satx.rr.com.

Hurlbut Memorial Community Church

Hurlbut Church will not conduct in-person services until further notice. In the meanwhile, the Rev. Carmen Perry’s sermons are accessible here

International Order of the King’s Daughters and Sons

The International Order of The King’s Daughters and Sons’ (IOKDS) mission has included serving young adults in their spiritual development at Chautauqua Institution since 1920. Our newest program is the Learn and Discern college internship. With Chautauqua’s closure due to COVID-19 this season, we quickly pivoted to a virtual internship format. After sharing our syllabus with college officials at Houghton College, Valparaiso University and St. Bonaventure University, our interns will receive college credit for the virtual experience. Students have accepted the unpaid internships for brand marketing, social media communication, faith-based programming, and donor relationships. Upon successful completion of their internships, students may apply for an IOKDS scholarship here.

Islamic Community

Jum’ah, the Friday Muslim communal prayer, has traditionally been held every Friday in the Hall of Christ. This service will resume in the 2021 season. The Jum’ah service, which has been open to all, combines the traditional elements of the Muslim worship experience with the opportunity to engage the Muslim coordinator for the Abrahamic Program for Young Adults with questions to further understanding about Islam. The instructional portion begins at 12:30 p.m. EDT. The Jum’ah prayer handout is available in both Arabic and English transliteration, with detailed explanations for those who wish to join in prayer or understanding.

Labyrinth 

In previous seasons, Chautauquans have had an opportunity to learn about and walk the Labyrinth, located next to Turner Community Center just north of the parking lot. Although the Labyrinth is open for quiet meditation, Norma and Wally Rees will resume their Department of Religion-sponsored orientation — which includes a brief history of the uses of the Labyrinth — in the 2021 season.

Lutheran House

While the Lutheran House is closed for in-person hosting and programming this season, we are actively sponsoring virtual programs to our guests and the Chautauqua community for the 2020 season. 

The Lutheran House hosts are sponsoring a social hour at 4:30 p.m. EDT. every Tuesday via Zoom. For an invitation, contact our hosts Sue and Jerry Keppel at lutheranhousehost@gmail.com

Mystic Heart Community Meditation

The mission of The Mystic Heart is to help participants discover and manifest peace, compassion, and kindness in themselves, in their relations with others, and in their communities.

The program continues this year with a series of 90 free pre-recorded meditation sessions led by faculty from a variety of religious, spiritual and wisdom traditions. The sessions premiere at 8 a.m. and 1 p.m. EDT each weekday on the CHQ Assembly Virtual Porch and are archived for later use.

Subagh Khalsa leads a session on Sikh Dharma Meditation at 8 a.m. EDT Monday, July 27. 

Wayman Kubicka leads a session on Japanese Zen Meditation at 1 p.m. EDT Monday, July 27. 

Prayers for Peace through Compassion

For many years, every morning during the season from 8:55 to 9 a.m. EDT, Chautauquans gather in the Grove to pray for peace through compassion. In 2020, all Chautauquans around the world are invited to join together from wherever they are in silent prayer and reflection for five minutes.

Presbyterian Association

The Presbyterian Association is closed for the 2020 season. We look forward and hope we will be open and welcoming of guests in 2021. 

The Presbyterian Association is both a house and a community. Our history began in 1883 to welcome Presbyterians to Chautauqua and house missionaries for summer programs. The Presbyterian Association includes all persons and provides excellent weekly accommodations and meals at prices made affordable by generous donors.

Creating a Presbyterian presence through worship, study and hospitality, the Presbyterian Association shares our beautiful and functional facility, contributes financially to Chautauqua Institution and the surrounding community, and works in cooperation with other denominational houses and religious communities.

For more information, please visit https://presbychq.org/

The Annual Meeting of the Presbyterian Association of Chautauqua will be held at 12:30 p.m. EDT Thursday, July 30, via Zoom. The purpose of this meeting is to elect trustees and the nominating committee, and for the transaction of business of the association. Association members please contact Jim Dakin at jim_dakin@yahoo.com to receive a Zoom invitation.

Religious Society of Friends (Quakers)

The Chautauqua Friends Meeting (Quakers) will not be holding Meeting for Worship or programs during the 2020 season. We are focusing on our plans for the 2021 season when we will be welcoming our first full-season Friend-in-Residence who will attend programs, be available for discussions, and create activities as needed. We will also welcome the director of the Friends Center for Racial Justice in Ithaca for a full week during the season.

Friends (Quakers) have been at Chautauqua since its earliest years. The largest gathering, estimated at 1,000, occurred during the 1900 season with the founding of Friends General Conference, an association of regional Quaker communities in the U.S. and Canada. For many decades, Friends worshipped in the Octagon Building, but in 2019 needed to relocate, as the building returned to its original use as a home for the Chautauqua Literary and Scientific Circle. In response to the need, the Unitarian Universalists made their house available to Quakers at 9:30 a.m. EDT each Sunday, enabling us to continue welcoming all to worship with us in the manner of Friends.

In 2020, we have begun to look for a permanent home to purchase on the grounds. Such a home might be only large enough to hold our Sunday morning service, or it might be large enough to house a few people as well. We look forward to updating our denominational friends in 2021.

Unitarian Universalist Fellowship of Chautauqua

Unitarian Universalists have a legacy of “deeds not creeds.” Our work for a better world calls us to harness love’s power to stop oppression. From grassroots community organizing, to interfaith state, national and corporate advocacy; in protest marches, prayer vigils and press conferences; in homeless shelters and in prisons, Unitarian Universalists put our faith into action.

Our justice efforts are grounded in our congregationally driven social justice statements and our call to break down divisions, heal isolation, and honor the interconnectedness of all life and all justice issues. At Chautauqua we model these commitments by creating a just, welcoming and inclusive congregation. We act in partnership with groups at Chautauqua, including the LGBTQ and Friends Community, The Collaborative Union, Parents and Friends of Lesbians and Gays, and the African American Heritage House, to bring attention to the issues of diversity, equality and inclusiveness through our Sunday Services, our Ethics Week Lectures and our contribution of funding to each organization. 

The LGBTQ and Friends Community at Chautauqua have canceled all activities this season in keeping with the limitations on public gatherings during the pandemic. For information about activities for the 2021 season, including our speaker sponsorships and community events, visit lgbtq-chq.com. To receive our newsletters, sign up on our website. 

The Chautauqua PFLAG Chapter expanded beyond the Institution about a year ago. Now, in addition to its weekly meetings at the Unitarian Universalist House during the Chautauqua season, PFLAG also meets monthly during the off-season at the Patterson Library in Westfield. Since the Institution is curtailing the summer programming, PFLAG is hosting a weekly “get together” for social connection, support and to answer the inquiries and needs of the greater Chautauqua community at 6:30 p.m. EDT Wednesdays via Zoom. PFLAG’s official monthly meeting is at 6:30 p.m. EDT on the last Wednesday of every month via Zoom. If you would like to attend, please email Steve Aschmann at steveaschmann@hotmail.com. For more info, call 814-440-0902 or consult our Facebook page.

United Church of Christ

We greatly regret that all three buildings of the UCC Society will be closed throughout this summer. For further information, go to our website: cuccs.org 

We look forward to welcoming you back next summer. Stay safe and healthy. 

United Methodist

The United Methodist House was built in 1888 by the founders of the Chautauqua Assembly. Methodist Episcopal Bishop John Heyl Vincent and Lewis Miller, a philanthropist and member of the Board of Trustees, accepted a bid of $3,800 to erect a headquarters building. Amazingly, the construction was completed in 90 days and ready for the 1888 Assembly. In the early days, it housed meeting rooms, a ladies parlor, a library and public toilets.

The United Methodist House today is a year-round center. In the summer months, rooms are rented by the week. Once the Chautauqua summer season has ended, the house is rented by groups for retreats, family reunions, craft gatherings, etc. More information is available on our website, umhouse.com, and Facebook: United Methodist House – Chautauqua Institution.

While we are sorry and sad to not be there to greet visitors this summer, all are welcome and encouraged to visit the porch in 2021, when we can enjoy the wicker rockers, have something cool to drink, meet with old friends and make new ones, or just sit and watch the constant stream of interesting folks who stroll by the house. Until then, stay safe and count your blessings!

Unity of Chautauqua

This summer, Unity will explore “Trusting the Process of Change Using Life’s Changes for Spiritual Awakening” during the 9:15 a.m. EDT Sunday meetings via Zoom. Topics addressed are:

  • Understanding the nature of change and the dynamics of the transition process.
  • Discovering deeper meaning in the disturbing and unsettling events in our individual lives and in the world.
  •   Navigating life’s changes and challenges using the Biblical Exodus story.
  •   Bringing forth our “best” selves as we allow a greater Reality to direct our lives.

The Rev. Barbara Williams’ topic at 9:15 a.m. EDT Sunday, July 26, via Zoom is “The Void.” “The Void is a time to draw upon our deepest resources as we release the old while not yet discovering the new,” Williams said. “Creation begins in emptiness.” 

For more information about Unity of Chautauqua and how to access the Zoom meeting, visit unitychq.org.

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