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people (because you can’t hide in the
crowd if there is no crowd!) and
unfamiliar faces out of the way, I now
feel I can fully experience all that the
ECM has to offer and give back as
much as I can in thanks. Students,
graduates, and ECM veterans alike all
come to the space with a spirit of
reciprocity, taking the community
and opportunity for growth while
giving their time, energies, and spirit
to continue making it all it can be.
Because that’s what the ECM is—you
and me.
The response I generally hear when
referencing the ECM in conversation
is either, ―I love that place!!‖ or ―The
ECM? What’s that?‖ When the
latter happens, I take the opportunity
to make the moment a learning one,
and launch a wholehearted spiel
about how great the ECM is and if
one is looking for somewhere to get
involved with great causes and peo-
ple, the ECM is the place to go. I
myself graduated in May and have
decided to continue my involvement
with the ECM because of the experi-
ences I had not only with Thad,
Miles, Ary, and Teresa, but everyone
associated with it last year. Although
I was a senior, I hadn’t really taken
full advantage of their services (or
offered any of mine) in previous
years out of timidity—Veggie Lunch
was about as out of my comfort zone
I would go. That quickly changed
when I found myself spending some
part of every day there because of
my involvement with an event being
held in that (wonderful) space. With
the scariness of small numbers of
Well it surely has been an exciting
and eventful summer! In terms of
―development‖ there is a lot going
on at the ECM. First of all, as every-
one knows, the successful comple-
tion of the capital campaign has eve-
ryone energized! (Of course we
relaxed for a few days in there). We
are excited to channel the energy
from the capital campaign to our
general fundraising efforts so that we
can have the funds we need to keep
ECM up and running and support all
of our wonderful programming this
fall.
Speaking of fall programming, we are
incredibly excited to have a wonder-
ful Leadership Team for the 2011-
2012 school year. The Leadership
Team will be working on program-
ming having to do with faith dynam-
ics, sexuality education, environmen-
tal and social justice and vocation.
Students will lead alternative spring
breaks, organize events and work
together to create lots of opportuni-
ties for education, reflection, activism
and dialogue.
We are excited to announce that this
year the Leadership Team kicked
their year off with a team-building
retreat at Heartland Presbyterian
Retreat Center in Kansas City. This
retreat was funded through a grant
from the Unitarian Universalist Asso-
ciation of Congregations. The local
Unitarian Fellowship recently joined
ECM as a supporting congregation
and made us aware of this grant op-
portunity. We are now able to sup-
port all 23 students on the leadership
team for this overnight that should
get the year and their projects off to
a great start!
In other news, we have set the date
for our Capital Campaign apprecia-
tion dinner and celebration. On Sun-
day October 16th from 4:30-6:30 we
will gather everyone who supported
us in the capital campaign in any way
and celebrate the completion togeth-
er. There will be wine, cheese, beer,
discussion, a few speakers and hope-
fully a good time all around. The
event is here at the ECM and will
include tours of our building for inter-
ested donors. Mark your calendars
and look for an invitation in the mail!
Finally, we are excited to be estab-
lishing our first ever Development
Committee. I am working with a
great group of students, members of
the board and other ECM supporters
to establish a long-term stable budget
plan for the ECM.
If anyone is interested in becoming
involved with ECM development
projects or in donating please feel
free to contact me! I will love to hear
from you – we can talk about how
great ECM is and how you can best
support our important work. Call
785-843-4933 Monday-Friday be-
tween 2:00 and 5:00 pm or e-mail
[email protected] attn.: Teresa.
We are, as always, endlessly grateful
to our supporters and we are excit-
ed to see how all of our plans and
projects develop.
What the ECM means to me By Cassandra Smyers
Development Update by Teresa Zaffiro, development coordinator
E C M A T K U
ECUMENICAL CAMPUS MINISTRIES
HEARTH NEWS F A L L 2 0 1 1 W W W . E C M K U . O R G
O N G O I N G
E V E N T S
T H I S
F A L L A T
E C M
Real Person's Guide
to Sexuality – Mondays
8:00 pm
Compassion For All
Animals– Tuesdays
6:00 pm
Environs– Wednesdays
5:30-6:30pm
Faith Forum, A
liberating Take on
Christianity– Wednes-
days 6:30-8:15pm
University-
Community Forum–
Wednesdays 11:30-
1:00pm
Veggie Lunch–
Thursdays 11:30-1:00pm
K.I.C.K. (Kinetic
Interfaith Coalition at
University of Kansas)-
Thursdays 7:00-9:00pm
Ecojustice– Thursdays
twice a month at 6:00pm
Fair Trade– Thurs-
days 7:15-8:15pm
Fair Food– Mondays at
6:30pm at 612 West
17th Street, between
Indiana and Mississippi
School of Americas
Trip/Vigil- (sign up for
contact on meetings/
deadlines for registra-
tion)
Alternative Breaks-
(sign up for contact on
meetings/deadlines for
registration)
For more ongoing events visit
our website at www.ecmku.org
and click on Programs.
EDITED BY ARIDAY GUERRERO
P A G E 2
University-Community Forum Fall 2011
ECM’s University-Community Forum is back for the fall semester every Wednesday from noon to 1:00 pm with an optional
lunch at 11:30 am. You won’t want to miss this year’s dynamic presentations and captivating dialogue. Check out the full
schedule below.
E C U M E N I C A L C A M P U S M I N I S T R I E S
“I'm looking forward to my
41st year of participating in
the University Forum. The
Forum has always been an
opportunity for camaraderie
among people from the Uni-
versity and the Community;
a place where relevant in-
formation is shared and an
exchange of views takes
place. The fall schedule
promises to be another stel-
lar set of programs.”
Forrest Swall
“I came to University-Community
Forum occasionally during my first
academic year at KU. In the se-
cond and third year I attended
more frequently trying to select
those forums that I thought would
be most interesting to me, but
finally realized that I could not
select them by title alone and gave
up trying to select and started to
attend all of them from the mid- to
late 1950's onward and I did not
like to miss many of them.”
Edward Shaw
Aug.
24
“Taking the Kansas Pulse at 150 years”
Thomas Fox Averill, writer-in-residence at Washburn University and commentator for KANU as “William Jennings Bryan”.
Averill traveled to 24 public libraries speaking about his book “What Kansas Means to Me”. He will share his observations
about the state of the state influenced by these presentations.
Aug.
31
“Milestones of Tribal Involvement in the Lewis & Clark Bicentennial”
Chris Howell, Chief Operating Officer at Kansas Arts Commission.
Sept.
7
“A Search for a Home for the Homeless Center”
Loring Henderson, Director of Lawrence Homeless Shelter. Several attempts to find a new location for homeless shelter
in Lawrence have not been successful—what do we, as a community, do now?
Sept.
14
“On the 1966 Meredith March with Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.”
The Rev. Joe Alford, retired Episcopal Campus Chaplain and founder of the Jubilee Café. In June 1966 Alford spent three
weeks as a driver for a CBS News crew covering the Meredith March from Memphis, Tenn. To Jackson, Miss., led by MLK.
Sept.
21
“Kansas Legislature: Current Legislative Assessment”
Tom Sloan, Kansas State Representative. Sloan will review the past Kansas Legislature and discuss possible directions it will take, including legislation in regards to energy and environmental policy, death penalty and further reorganization of
state government.
Sept.
28
“Protecting Land into Perpetuity”
Jerry Jost, Interim Director of Kansas Land Trust. The presentation will describe how the Kansas Land Trust protects
prairies, prime farm land, woods and riparian areas for all future generations.
Oct.
5
“Unforgettable, Strange and Wonderful Facts About the Banana”
Charles Lee Stansifer, Professor Emeritus of History. Stansifer will speak on how banana tenacity caused the fall of communism along with various other social and political theories about rising and falling of banana consumption—and
what to do with bananas if you are weird and do not like them.
Oct. 8-11 Fall Break
Oct.
12
“Grassroots Neighborhood Associations in Lawrence and Beyond”
Gwen Klingenberg, President of Lawrence Association of Neighborhoods. Klingenberg will discuss how neighborhood
associations play a vital role in Lawrence and how they compare to other cities.
Oct.
19
“Where on Earth is Douglas County?”
Ken Lassman, Author of “Wild Douglas County”. Douglas County will be described in the larger context of our planet
landscapes, seasons, and cycles.
Oct.
26
“Evolving Elections”
Jaime Shew, Douglas County Clerk.
Nov.
2
“Shifting the Discourse: Immigrant Rights as Human Rights”
Tanya Maria Golash-Boza, Assistant Professor of Sociology and American Studies. The human rights implications and
racial disparities of U.S. immigration policy will be explored along with possible changes to current policy.
Nov.
9
“Pack Your Bags for Saudi Arabia”
Jean Grant, Author of novel “The Burning Veil” and former journalist in Saudi Arabia. Grant will describe what it is like for a newcomer to walk in Saudi Arabia as a teacher, businessman and scientist, and what it is like for a non-Saudi to leave
the U.S. and live forever with a Saudi spouse.
Nov.
16
“Douglas County Sheriff’s Office Inmate Reentry Program”
Shannon Murphy, Reentry Director, Douglas County Jail. Reentry’s mission of increasing public safety by developing
successful transition planning for sentenced inmates returning to the community will be described.
Nov.
30
“Perspectives on Mount Oread”
Ted Johnson, Professor Emeritus of French and Italian. Known for Stop Day walking tours of KU Campus. He will discuss
why he began the tours and their importance.
Dec.
7
Planning Meeting for Spring 2012 UC Forum (11:30 am- 1:00 pm). An open meeting with lunch option 11:30-1:00pm- bring your suggestions for topics and/or presenters.
P A G E 3 W W W . E C M K U . O R G
Deepening Connections by Eric Sader, Faith Forum attendee
Faith by definition requires at least one relationship. Something must be believed or trusted. It does not exist in a vacuum
but instead must be expressed and even challenged for its potential to be realized.
For me, and many others, the opportunity to explore one’s spiritual journey is present at Faith Forum at Ecumenical Christian
Ministries. All ideas and viewpoints are open to discussion. Truths are examined in an incredibly safe, engaging, and genuine
atmosphere. Friendships are made with amazing people from diverse backgrounds, generations, and professions.
Arriving in Lawrence two years ago, I sought to find a campus ministry conducive to fostering my relationship with God, but
not trying to direct it. At Faith Forum, a visitor can expect to encounter a community genuinely passionate about who people
are at their cores and the experiences they bring to the table. There is something profoundly God-filled in peacefully breaking
bread with one’s neighbors, and a meal kicks off each week. These neighbors regularly inquire about each other’s “weather,”
an analogy inciting explanation as to the feelings accompanying one’s review of the last few days.
I have been blessed to witness God’s presence from the eyes of a lawyer one session and a transgender social justice advocate
the next. I have seen Christ in the work of Baha’i, Islamic, and Jewish presenters. Through it all, a bind uniting attendees is a
passion for the world, a caring hunger for improving the environment and loving its people. However one chooses to phrase
it, Faith Forum deepens one’s connection to something greater and begins to actualize the Kingdom in the here and now.
What happens when you come to
faith forum?
Every Wednesday night we begin with a
light meal (optional) at 6:30pm, presenta-
tion/dialogue starts at 7:00pm and closing
is from 8:00-8:15pm. If not eating, it is very
important to be present around the table as
we share who we are and how we are do-
ing. Often we ask each person, “What is
your weather?” the responses are volun-
teered and it is an opportunity to build a
sense of community and to welcome new
participants.
*The presentations are ways to increase
our dialogue on the theme. Each presenter
will be a participant who has attended
regularly. They will respond to all 3 ques-
tions, except in case of Nov. 2, where the
questions will be derived from previous
dialogue and new questions that may have
arisen. The “reflections” will have specific
questions facilitating our conversation.
The Faith Forum aspires to the practice of
listening to others, regardless of the differ-
ences. Dialogue and not debate is the inten-
tion of the series. There is no requirement
to identify with a Faith tradition to partici-
pate.
The closure for the evening includes com-
mon prayers for those who choose to par-
ticipate and a Passing of the Peace.
Aug. 24
Introduction Orientation to Forum’s Theme
Aug. 31
Topic: Framing the conversation- Imagining the worldview of an earlier period of Western cultural history that influences the way we approach “faith” and “learning”.
Sept. 7
Topic: Religions as a human construct vs. divine origin.
Sept. 14
Topic: “Share something of your faith/spiritual perspective. What experi-ences in your life have shaped your being a spiritual person or person of faith and how have they affected the way you view the world and the way you live?”
Sept. 21
Topic: “What have been your significant positive and negative experiences in your learning and/or teaching –which have evoked the most “passion” in you?”
Sept. 28
Topic: “From your perspective, what is the relationship between faith and knowledge? How does your understanding of this relationship inform you in your learning and/or teaching?
Oct. 5
*Presentation: A faculty response to the questions.
Oct. 12
Reflection- this may include additional resources/comments on the theme along with any further questions/comments on the previous week’s ses-sion.
Oct. 19
*Presentation: A student response to the questions.
Oct. 26-Dec. 7
Ongoing conversation on the theme.
P A G E 4
Listening Loudly Reflections and updates from Thad Holcombe, Campus Minister at ECM
Recently, a pastor’s sermon at one of ECM’s partner congregations evoked in me an appreciation of what ECM’s ministry is all about when he spoke of the untamable presence of the “spirit” of the Holy. During Veggie Lunch recently, I was approached by a regular attendee who came up to me to say “thank you” to ECM. That week there had been a presentation on homophobia as part of the weekly presentations in The Real Person’s Guide to Sexuality. He shared how, as a gay person, was affirmed as a “child of God” and now felt he could move beyond the shunning by his very traditional Roman Catholic family, including five siblings. He now identifies as a Buddhist. In another conversation, a returning summer service volunteer described his expe-rience as a member of the College staff at Ghost Ranch Conference Center (a site for one of our Alternative Breaks*). I felt the spirit through his sharing how living in an intentional community was what he had needed. He had a summer to “re-focus” his life through community support and having a daily discipline of running and then meditating on the side of a mesa. Again, a graduate student asked me to suggest some readings on “spirituality.” Her involvement in social justice issues through her cross-cultural experiences and in-volvement in women’s issues, prompted her to explore in more ways how to sustain her integrity in the midst of the predominant culture we all experience. I find myself understanding these stories and others as gifts of the “spirit.” And, they remind me of what I hope continues to be a mark of ECM’s ministry. We encourage individuals to discover and affirm their gifts. And, in so many ways, we celebrate these gifts through their being involved a community that encourages such discernment . * Also, the location of the film “Cowboys and Aliens”—seeing the landscape makes watching the film worthwhile.
E C U M E N I C A L C A M P U S M I N I S T R I E S
H E A R T H N E W S
Join us for the School of America's (SOA) Vigil in Fort Benning, GA November 18th-20th. Since 1946, the SOA has trained over 64,000 Latin
American soldiers in counterinsurgency techniques, sniper training, commando and psychological warfare, military intelligence and interroga-
tion tactics. These graduates have consistently used their skills to wage a war against their own people. Among those targeted by SOA gradu-
ates are educators, union organizers, religious workers, student leaders, and others who work for the rights of the poor. The yearly vigil is a
peaceful gathering of thousands of people who are part of a nonviolent grassroots movement that works to stand in solidarity with the peo-
ple of Latin America and the Caribbean, to close the SOA/WHINSEC and to change oppressive U.S. foreign policy that the SOA represents. Con-
tact TERESA, [email protected]
The Chicago Alternative Break explores community building at the Centro Autónomo in Albany Park, Chicago. The week-long program serves
to educate through collective exploration of issues in workshops throughout our stay, meetings with community members, and home-stay
experiences that deepen understanding of the community. For more information contact Sybil Adams at [email protected]
Narrow Ridge Alternative Spring Break (new this spring)
The value of sustainability as a way of life goes far beyond its environmental implications. On this alternative break, students experience the
way in which a rich sense of community can be built through sustainable living. During a week-long trip "off the grid" to Narrow-Ridge Earth
Literacy Center in Washburn, TN, students engage in a combination of service-learning and community-building exercises centered around a
lifestyle of eco-mindedness. The schedule for this alternative break will be tailored to meet the particular needs and interests of those who
sign up. Lodging is on-site at the famous Straw Bale Lodge. For more information email Jon at [email protected].
**Visit our website to learn about other alternative breaks (New Mexico, Arizona, Appalachia)
Opportunities at ECM
P A G E 5
ECM in pictures
TOOLS NEEDED
We are in need of tools to
make ECM repairs. We need:
battery operated drills, electric Skill Saw, drill bits,
socket sets, wrenches and other hand tools.
A donation of any of the above will help us immensely!
Contact us to make a donation or stop by the office
anytime!
ECM Leadership
Team Retreat
International
Dinner
We would like to
give a special
thanks to all the
wonderful
volunteers that
make our events
happen!!
You guys are
awesome!
1204 Oread Ave. Lawrence KS 66044 * 785-843-4933 * www.ecmku.org * [email protected]
YES! I want to donate to the ECM!
Amount:
Name: __________________
Address: _________________________________________
Email: ______Telephone: ____________
Date: _______
**please make any check donations payable to Ecumenical Campus Ministries Operating Budget**
Thank you for being a part of ECM’s Ministry
Interested in renting our building?
ECM is your space for public and private events. The building offers three climate-controlled floors with varied designs to cater all event needs. You can
host a lecture, discussion panel or film screening with the ECM’s presentation technology equipment. You can organize a small group in the beautifully-
lit area upstairs that boasts a spectacular view of East Lawrence. Or you can plan a grand dinner with our full, state-certified kitchen and seating for up
to 500 people. Visit our website at www.ecmku.org to view pictures of our building!
Give ECM a call today to plan your next meeting or event. We promise you and yours guests will enjoy the experience.
ECUMENICAL CAMPUS MINISTRIES
AT THE UNIVERSITY OF KANSAS
1204 OREAD AVENUE
LAWRENCE,KS 66044