UU TV

unitarian universalist television

UU TV's history parallels the history of the Community TV Channel in Toronto. In 1976, the late Gil Gillespie of First Unitarian Congregation of Toronto produced Unitarian TV using the facilities of Metro Cable. Only two other religious groups were using these facilities at that time. In 1978 Horizon Interfaith Council was established to include 16 religious groups, and later, as Rogers Communications Inc. expanded, the Council enjoyed its generous assistance with the use of studio facilities to produce programs, and broadcasting facilities to bring the programs to the whole Greater Toronto Area, Oakville to Pickering, and north to Uxbridge. This area coincides quite closely to the residential areas of Unitarians belonging to six of the member congregations of the Unitarian Congregations of Greater Toronto.

The following half hour programs were produced for the Unitarian Congregations of Greater Toronto (UCGT), a member group of Horizon Interfaith Council. The Council was established to produce religious programs for Rogers Community Cable TV viewers in the Greater Toronto Area. Each program has been recorded off-air and duplicated on DVD for the libraries of each UCGT member congregation. They are Rogers' copyright property. No charge may be made to view them. Viewing one of these library copies at home or within the congregations premises is considered fair use. The producers hope that these tapes serve as tools for individual Unitarians and Universalists to help them introduce their faith to their friends.

Concert Special 2000	Gil Gillespie introduces performers from four member groups of the Horizon Interfaith Council. Four styles of singing, two languages, Portuguese and English, represent the diverse nature of Horizon Interfaith Council?s membership. The first performance consists of two relaxed, slow tempo gospel songs from Edouardo Fernandez, of The Portuguese Colheita Ministry; with two guitars and keyboard; next was a song with a distinct West Indian flavour sung by Carl Anderson of The Church of Scientology; the singing style of Lisia Dos Santos and Cassiana of The Poruguese Asembly of God had the power of the music theatre; finally, First Unitarian Congregation of Toronto sent their Chamber Choir, four unaccompanied soprano soloists, directed by Mary Piercey.
Out of the Cold Host: Michael Hotrum	Margaret Vandenbroucke and the Rev. Jeffrey Brown describe the Out of the Cold program in Toronto and in Mississauga. Margaret, a member of First Congregation of Toronto, talks about a 9 year involvement in an ecumenical program to help the homeless in Toronto. The Rev. Jeffrey Brown, minister at the Unitarian Congregation of South Peel in Mississauga, describes an affordable housing project that the Unitarian congregation, a local synagogue and United Church initiated 15 years ago. He also discusses more recent efforts to address the problem in the Peel region by opening the premises as a shelter. A Tribute to Gil Gillespie follows this program, and is recorded on the same tape. Gil was one of the founding members of Horizon Interfaith Council. He died suddenly in 2000.
Unitarian Religious Education Host: Diane Boyer	Diane Bosman, DRE Lifespan Learning First Unitarian Congregation of Toronto, Beth Ann McFadden, a parent teacher at First, and Karyn Burney, DRE, Unitarian Congregation of South Peel discuss the broad topic of Unitarian RE with host Diane Boyer. They describe the curriculum, and how it is used at the various grade levels. Photographs show various program activities. This program is intended for those whose understanding of "religious education" or "Sunday School" might be of a more creedal based curriculum.
Unitarians and Social Action Host: Michael Hotrum	Norman McLeod, Social Action Chair at South Peel, outlines the democratic processes whereby a congregation, and the whole denomination, the Canadian Unitarian Council, is able to select issues for social action. Norman describes the formation of Canadian Unitarians for Social Justice (CUSJ), an organization of individual Unitarians and Universalists, and like-minded others, and its capability to respond quickly to social injustices at a less formal level.
You May already Be a Unitarian Host: Diane Boyer	The Rev. Dr. Mark Morrison-Reed and Diane Boyer discuss their experiences from the viewpoint of persons of different countries, with different backgrounds who were brought up in Unitarian families.
The International Association for Religious Freedom (IARF) Host: Michael Hotrum	Ellen Campbell, IARF Vice President, talks about the natural fit of Unitarians into this multi-faith network of religious groups working for religious freedom around the world. She lists the major religions and countries that are represented in the Association. Michael Hotrum's other guest, Kevin Virtue, IARF's Young Adult Representative describes an international network of 200 young adults. He says that they want to create a resource centre for those who see religious intolerance in their countries. He gives examples of projects that have resulted in more harmonious relations where previously there had been hostility.
Growing a New Unitarian Congregation Host: Michael Hotrum	The Rev. Cheryl Jack, of the Unitarian Universalist Congregation of Durham Region, and the Rev. Wayne Walder of Neighbourhood Unitarian Universalist Congregation (The Beach) describe their experiences in growing new congregations. After joining a congregation within the Greater Toronto Area, they had both felt called to serve in the Unitarian ministry, becoming mid-life career changers.
How Welcoming Are Unitarians? Host: Michael Hotrum	The Rev. Dr Mark Morrison-Reed, co-minister at First Unitarian Congregation of Toronto with his wife Donna, discusses the problem of inclusiveness within Unitarian congregations. He has written three books on the topic: Black Pioneers in a White Denomination, Been in the Storm So Long and How Open the Door. Mark describes his childhood in the Chicago Unitarian church as a member of the first black family there, and his experiences as the first Afro-American to grow up within the movement. He concludes that although people of colour are better represented in Unitarian churches in the United States than in Canada they tend to be similar to their white peers intellectually and economically.
Living beyond Our Abilities Host: Michael Hotrum	Professor Thomas Homer-Dixon won the 2001 Governor General Award for his book The Ingenuity Gap, based on research into many complex problems facing the world. He credits the influence of Unitarian-Universalism, its tolerance of ambiguity, with helping his thinking on a huge project. He describes his travels to developing countries, and the widening disparities between rich and poor, the information overload that interferes with problem solving, and the rising rates of depression among young people in developed countries. He tells many stories and gives vivid examples to illustrate the many influences on his book.
Unitarians in Canada Host: Michael Hotrum	Mary Bennett, Executive Director of the Canadian Unitarian Council gives an articulate, thoughtful and coherent overview of the recent evolution of the CUC during her five year tenure. It addresses the friendly separation from the Unitarian Universalist Association in the United States, the redirection of the CUC towards a truly national Canada wide organization, and the evolving capability to offer support to congregations of all sizes, wherever they are located in Canada. A ?must see? for all Unitarians and Universalists.
CUC Lay Chaplaincy Program Host: Michael Hotrum	This program is worthwhile viewing for any Unitarian. Michael Hotrum does a fine job in drawing out the distinction between "Chaplain" and "Lay Chaplain". Germaine Kovary and Kathryn McIntyre, the two Lay Chaplains being interviewed, present wonderful perspectives of their roles in their congregations and within the wider community. They discuss the opportunities that a Unitarian ceremony presents to people from diverse backgrounds. Such people, with highly personal spiritual needs, can develop their own unique ceremonial format, which has meaning for them. The program also includes some heart-warming examples of the experiences these Lay Chaplains have had in their roles.
Resettling New Canadians Host: Yvonne Greig	Guests Erika Lautenschlaeger of South Peel and Margaret Rao of First Unitarian Toronto, describe the refugee Sponsorship process. They talk about their experiences with "their families", fund-raising activities undertaken by their respective congregations; budgeting to support a family, and how they introduced newcomers to Canadian society. They offer tips to other would be sponsors, including information about supporting agencies that advise sponsors.
Building Green Communities: Religious and Residential Host: Yvonne Greig	Catherine Tafler, a professional architect, outlines South Peel's project, a "green" extension to its current worship space. She describes the congregation?s process that led to the decision to build, and the environmentally friendly features that have been incorporated. Mairy Beam, member of First Unitarian Congregation of Toronto, describes her journey towards a full time commitment to living full time in a "green" village, one of the Whole Village movement. She describes the organic gardening project, and how the village plans to become completely self ?sustaining.
Letting Our Light Shine Host: Karen Jackson	Karyn Burney, of South Peel, and Kalvin Drake, of First Unitarian, Toronto describe the events leading up to the production of professionally designed promotional materials for Unitarianism. The showpiece banner is on display during the program, as Karyn and Kalvin talk about, and demonstrate the multi-purpose use of a wide range of materials. The viewer will learn about the symbolism of various elements within the highly colourful design. A well received workshop given at South Peel to help individuals talk about Unitarianism is also described.
Making a Better World Host: Yvonne Greig	Richard Kirsh, co-ordinator of the Central America Volunteer Construction Project at First Congregation, Toronto, describes how he first became interested in building schools in Central America, tracing the story of his continued involvement. He covers the history of the project, the people who volunteer, what they do, and includes photos of them and their work. This program should be seen by anyone contemplating volunteering for a trip. Richard also spoke highly of World Accord, the umbrella charitable organization with which the project is now affiliated.
Engaged Diversity Host: Wendy Shusterrman	Rev. Debra Faulk describes a new Canadian Unitarian Council program that she has introduced to Don Heights Unitarian Congregation. She explains that the program is a resource for self reflection about the visible and invisible diversity of the community outside the congregation. She describes the activities: discussion, movies, knowledgeable speakers, and worship services, and their orientation to both visible and invisible diversities. With a particular emphasis on ?engaged? as doing the work, and the specific examples of what to do, this program will be useful to congregations interested in becoming more diverse.
Sexuality Education: What is Outercourse? Host: Tracey Szarka	Neal den Hollander and Sheila Bjarnason, co-leaders of the OWL program, give a comprehensive description of the OWL (Our Whole Lives) program. ?Outercourse? is defined as appropriate alternatives to actual ?intercourse? for teens in intimate relationships. Co-developed with the United Church of Christ in the United States in the 1990s, the program has expanded to provide sexuality education for 6 age levels, K through to Adult. The main focus of the discussion is the teen program, the need for respectful, knowledgeable teachers, characteristics of a typical session, the mandatory parent orientation sessions and the leadership training are covered. T his is an exceptionally well presented and informative overview of the OWL program with universal appeal.
Unitarian Family Values Host: Tracey Szarka	Alyson Schafer a psychotherapist, and one of Canada?s leading parenting experts, describes how her grandmother and father were instrumental in bringing Adlerian concepts of democratic parenting to First Unitarian Congregation of Toronto. She credits her upbringing with her choice of career. This program features a very animated conversation, as Alyson explains the natural fit between Unitarian family values and those of Adlerian psychology. This program is particularly recommended for Religious Education Committee members, parents, DREs and others involved in advising parents. Alyson showed her book Breaking the Good Mon Myth.
Unitarian Youth at the UN Host: Wendy Shusterrman	Carolyn Hyde and Nicole Krzyzanowski members of the Youth Group in the Unitarian Congregation in Mississauga, describe what was for them a very positive experience at the Intergenerational Peace Conference held at the Unitarian-Universalist United Nations Office in April 2008. They each covered their own highlights of a weekend spent in New York as members of their congregation?s youth group. In addition to offering insights into the UU-UNO activities, this program is recommended for Youth Advisors considering chaperoning a group to a UU-UNO event.
World Religions in Toronto Host:Tracey Szarka	Nancy and Terry Lee describe their experience at a week-long journey visiting 11 different World Religions, without leaving Toronto. Nancy begins by talking about Encounter World Religions Centre in Guelph, founded by JW Windland to help people learn about other faiths. In addition to giving an overview of what could be called ?immersion? in 11 religions Nancy and Terry described the following in detail: Islam, Sikhism, and the Smudge Ceremony at a North American Indian Lodge. Photographs were provide by JW Windland to help illustrate these religions. This program is recommended viewing by anyone planning to learn more about World Religions, particularly if contemplating attending a Encounter World Religions Centre course.
A Welcoming Congregation Host: Wendy Shusterman	The Rev. Jeff Brown outlines the history of Unitarian-Universalist support of the gay community as a movement seeking civil rights. He explains that the congregation he now serves had called the first gay minister in Canada the Rev. Mark deWolfe, and that Unitarian ministers had conducted services of union to gay couples well before the legalization of gay marriages in Canada. The Welcoming Congregation Program had been rooted in events such as these. He describes the structure and activities of a program which educates a typical congregation of ?straight? families to the concerns of the gay community, and the ?certification? process whereby a congregation can be Welcoming to all. It is understood that ?gay? refers to lesbian, bisexual and transsexual individuals.
Unicamp: Eden in Peril Host:Tracey Szarka	Neal denHollander, President of Unicamp, is interviewed about the history of Unicamp, and the threat of a proposed mega quarry in the neighbouring farmland. He discusses the programs and opportunities that Unicamp offers the community, both young and old? He speaks of the beauty of the Niagara Escarpment, which is designated a UNICCO Biosphere Reserve. The threat of the mega quarry to this site and the possibilities for protest to stop it are discussed. Six photographs are shown, and described. This program would be useful to show to friends asking Unicampers for information to supplement the official Unicamp brochure.
The Power of Music to Transform and Heal Host:Tracey Szarka	Dallas Bergen describes a childhood passion for singing that led to a career in choral music leadership. In addition to serving First Unitarian Congregation of Toronto as Community Music Director, Dallas has founded Univox, a choir for young adults aged 20 to 30 years, also a children?s choir in an elementary school. He explains the benefits of singing in a choir, building connections and trust between the members. He likens planning music for a worship service to planning a concert; all the elements compliment each other, sermon, readings and music. He uses music from all traditions and cultures because all communities share this music/traditional ritual link. This video is recommended for the insights given to those without experience in choral singing. Choral singers and music directors might use this video to show prospective choir members as a low key promotion tool.
Demystifying Meditation Host:Tracey Szarka	The Rev. Wayne Walder begins this conversation by explaining that ?Meditation? is a tool, one that allows other things to happen. He gives an example of one use: ?stress reduction? in hospitals. He describes this ?tool? as one that enables a person to slow down, look inside one?s own mind, really listen, and think what to say next. He stresses that meditation is not about technique. He talks of his own introduction to meditation in India, moving through a series of caves, to reach the meditating cave dweller at the end. He includes a description of the brain?s functioning with an example of a woman who, having had a stroke, which had destroyed her reasoning ability, but not affected her ability to meditate. The viewer will learn how meditation changes awareness and what happens inside our minds. Rev. Walder presents an informative balanced, description of a practice that some might have thought ?magical?, but one that can be explained in terms of the ?mind? and the way our brains function. The session ends with an example of music to meditate by and details about the Meditation groups he leads at Neighbourhood Unitarian Universalist Congregations.
Safe Steps Program Host:Tracey Szarka	Wendy Shusterman, Director of Lifespan Learning at the Unitarian Congregation in Mississauga, describes a program that she inherited, and is now proud to maintains. She stresses that the Safe Steps Program is about safety for adults in addition to the children in the congregation. She describes the policies in place, mentioning that when the building was renovated, all doors were fitted with windows facing a corridor, and cannot be locked. This video provides detailed practical information about how the Safe Steps Program operates. Viewing it should help those planning to introduce a Safe Steps program in a church congregation or other community involving adults working with children. This video was produced in response to demand following Wendy?s highly successful presentation at the 2011 CUC Annual Meeting and Conference.

Please contact uutv@ucgt.ca for more information.