Chronological History of Unity of Gainesville, continued.
Our History continued. . . 2020 onward.
Theme for 2020: "Perfect Vision: Seeing Through a Spiritual Lens"
The monthly Themes, Affirmations, and Meditations can be viewed at Unity Worldwide Ministries:
Visit https://www.unity.org/resources/perfect-vision
The monthly Themes, Affirmations, and Meditations can be viewed at Unity Worldwide Ministries:
Visit https://www.unity.org/resources/perfect-vision
- 2020 - March 18 - The CDC {Center for Disease Control} recommended that gatherings be curtailed for the next 8 weeks, due to the COVID-19 Pandemic. Therefore, using wisdom as our guide, your leadership team here at Unity of Gainesville voted to close our building temporarily, effective immediately. All classes and gatherings have been cancelled until further notice.
- 2020 - Palm Sunday, April 5 - "Sunday Zoom Meeting" was set up by Gabriel Coleman (Trustee) and Phyllis Shepard (Vice President) for a Sunday "Gathering of Friends" (at 11:00 am). It included music, prayer, meditation, special talk, offertory, and blessings. There were 35 people in attendance at this first gathering. They are planned during the time the church is closed due to COVID-19.
- 2020 - Easter Sunday, April 12 - "Sunday Zoom Meeting" (at 11:00 am) was held.
- 2020 - April 14 - "Sacred Community Zoom Meeting" started with facilitators Rev. Eleanor Bentley, Minister, and Rev. Carla Palmer, Licensed Unity Teacher (L.U.T.). It is scheduled for Tuesdays and Thursdays at 7:00 pm to hold sacred space for sharing and supporting each other in divine connection (during the church closure).
- 2020 - April 20 - "Board Zoom Meeting" was set up by Gabriel Coleman (Trustee) for the Board of Trustees to safely continue to meet. It is planned for the 3rd Tuesdays of the month at 6:00 pm while the church is closed.
- 2020 - Effective August 10, the Board of Trustees releases Rev. Eleanor Bentley from her contract, due to expire in December.
- 2020 - Starting Sunday, August 30 - Sunday Services by Zoom are now streamed live on Facebook thanks to Phyllis Shepard, Board VP, who now coordinates the page. . . Unity of Gainesville Florida.
- 2020 - Tues., September 8 - Bookstore reopens on Tues. and Wed., 11 am to 2 pm, with COVID-19 precautions: face masks and 6' physical distancing required; hand sanitizer and disinfectant wipes available.
- 2020 - Wed., September 16 - Qigong class at 10:30 am meets at church with COVID-19 precautions in place: face masks and 6' physical distancing required; hand sanitizer and disinfectant wipes available. Qigong class at 5:30 pm meets by telephone conferencing.
- 2020 - Sat., September 18 - Steve Greenough, Volunteer Coordinator and Building Maintenance Supervisor, holds "Weed Out" event to rid the church yard from weeds. Meeting from 8:30 to 10:30 am, with COVID-19 precautions: 6' social distancing and using a mask when inside or in the vicinity of others.
- 2020 - Tues., November 17 - Rev. Carla Palmer, Licensed Unity Teacher, accepts new position of Adult Education Coordinator. Carla will be offering a variety of classes. Individuals interested in providing workshops, classes, or other programs should contact Carla Palmer ([email protected]) or the church office ([email protected], 352-373-1030) for an application form and to discuss their ideas.
- 2020 - Sun., November 22 - Sunday Zoom Services begin livestreaming on Unity of Gainesville's YouTube channel.
- 2020 - Thur., December 24 - Candlelight Service held on Zoom platform. Phyllis Shepard facilitating.
- 2020 - Thur., December 31 - Burning Bowl Ceremony held on Zoom platform. Jacque Tatum and Carla Palmer facilitating.
Theme for 2021: "“How to Stay Centered, No Matter What” is Unity Worldwide Ministries' theme for 2021.
It is based on a system devised nearly a century ago by Unity cofounder Charles Fillmore, who defined the 12 powers — attributes that he believed formed the basis of our Christ consciousness. The more we develop them, the closer we are to expressing our true being, our divine nature.
Each month, a section of new resources related to one specific power, is made available with ideas for using it to stay centered.
Articles, Resources, Videos, Meditations, Playlists and more are available online at www.unity.org/resources/stay-centered
It is based on a system devised nearly a century ago by Unity cofounder Charles Fillmore, who defined the 12 powers — attributes that he believed formed the basis of our Christ consciousness. The more we develop them, the closer we are to expressing our true being, our divine nature.
Each month, a section of new resources related to one specific power, is made available with ideas for using it to stay centered.
Articles, Resources, Videos, Meditations, Playlists and more are available online at www.unity.org/resources/stay-centered
- 2021 - The COVID-19 virus remains a concern. The church remains closed for in-person Sunday Services. However, Phyllis Shepard plans and coordinates Sunday Zoom Services with guest speakers, musicians, and participants. These are also livestreamed on Facebook and YouTube.
- The bookstore is open two days per week for limited hours, and a Qigong class is held on Wed. mornings; precautions in place. Zoom meetings are held for the monthly Board meetings, Sacred Community gatherings on Tues. & Thurs. (Carla Palmer, LUT, facilitating), and a few classes.
- 2021 - March - 27-Year-Old a/c replaced. A new a/c was purchased and installed! Many thanks to our UOG friends for their financial support. One large anonymous donation, in particular, really made it possible for us to make the purchase. Many thanks... blessings to all.
2021 - March 16 - Board of Trustees elected officers for 2021-2022 term.
- Officers: Lauri Mills, President; Rupali Robinson, Vice President; Donna Bonnell Secretary; Jacque Tatum, Treasurer.
- Trustees: Bonnie Kilgore, Gabriel Coleman
- Alternate: Phyllis Shepard
2021 - April 1 - The Board of Trustees (BOT) signs the Minister of Record (MOR) agreement with Rev. Betty Martin-Lewis, effective April 1, 2021 with a start date of May 1, 2021. She will start out working up to 10 hours per week working with the BOT on goals, Mission & Vision statements and other important activities, as well as collaborate with Board Liaisons, who serve on various ministries, and our Adult Educator Coordinator. She is scheduled to speak on two Sundays a month, participate in BOT meetings, and be a support to the congregation.
- 2021 - April 8 - Sacred Community gathering on Thursday evenings transforms to a book group.
- 2021 - Wed., May 19 - A "Grateful Gathering for Celebration" was held to spread positive energy for reopening the church on Sunday, May 23. Singing, dancing, drumming, chanting, and more...
- 2021 - Sun., May 23 - After being closed for 14 months, the church reopens for Sunday Worship Services. Thanks to technology, the service was held virtually as well. Rev. Betty Martin-Lewis, Minister of Record, talked on Claiming Your Spiritual Authority. She then led a special Blessing and Dedication Ceremony with candlelight.
- 2021 - Sun., May 23 - Town Hall Meeting held at 12:30 p.m., Sunday, May 23, following the Blessing of the church (in person and virtual).
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2021 - Mon., June 14 - Memorial Service for Rev. Dr. Marty Dow was held at church and virtually. She served us as Transitional Spiritual Leader from April to December 2014, was an inspirational speaker, author, and workshop leader. She wrote: "How to Soar Above the Crisis! Developing Your Intuitive Power" and "A Meditation for Soul Attunement." She was the founder and co-director of the Institute for Creative Living in Gainesville, Florida. She also authored the 9-page e-book "8 Sacred Truths for Living a Blessed Life." She was a mentor to many, a bright spiritual light, filled with love and will be greatly missed. . Read her obituary HERE. |
- 2021 - August - Exit sign lights & batteries brought up to building codes and passed inspection.
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2021 - Sat., September 4 - Memorial Service for Jean Wiley was held at church and virtually by Zoom. She served as Church Administrator for many years under several ministers. She was easy-going and kind to everyone she met -- friend and stranger alike. Many first-time visitors commented that they could feel love radiating out to the street. Oftentimes, travelers stopped in needing help with gas or food and Jean would always be of assistance. She was the "heart of Unity." Read her obituary and order of service. |
- 2021 - Wed., September 15 - Earth Healing Meditation group begins to meet regularly on Wed., from 3-4 pm, at church and on Zoom for like-minded people to hold sacred space for our planet and all living things.
- 2021 - Fri., September 24 - Notice came that Steve Greenough, Sexton, completed his course of study and requirements to become a Licensed Unity Teacher (LUT). We congratulate him on his achievement. Way to go, Steve! A ceremony was held at the church on Sunday, October 24, 2021. View the photos in our Photo Gallery. .
- 2021 - Tue., November 2 - Giovanna Drausal is hired as new Church Administrator. Church office hours expand to 3 days: Tue., Wed., and Thur., 10am to 2pm.
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2021 - Fri., December 17 - Memorial Service for Marjorie Sorokowski was held at church. She had been affiliated with Unity church for several years, becoming a Licensed Unity Teacher, before coming to Gainesville. She volunteered to serve in the bookstore and lend a compassionate ear to others needing prayer.
Read her obituary. |
Theme for 2022: "In this year of Spiritual evolution I BEcome my Spiritual Potential: Fully Human - Fully Divine”
Monthly affirmations created by Carla Palmer, Licensed Unity Teacher, and Rev. Betty Martin-Lewis, Minister of Record.
JANUARY - CONNECTING WITH SOURCE; FEBRUARY - FORGIVENESS; MARCH – FACING FEAR; APRIL – EMBRACING PARADOX;
MAY – ACTS OF COURAGE; JUNE – SELF-CARE/COMPASSION; JULY - SERVICE; AUGUST – ABUNDANCE!; SEPTEMBER – PEACE WITHIN;
OCTOBER - TRANSFORMATION; NOVEMBER - GRATITUDE; DECEMBER - ONENESS
Monthly affirmations created by Carla Palmer, Licensed Unity Teacher, and Rev. Betty Martin-Lewis, Minister of Record.
JANUARY - CONNECTING WITH SOURCE; FEBRUARY - FORGIVENESS; MARCH – FACING FEAR; APRIL – EMBRACING PARADOX;
MAY – ACTS OF COURAGE; JUNE – SELF-CARE/COMPASSION; JULY - SERVICE; AUGUST – ABUNDANCE!; SEPTEMBER – PEACE WITHIN;
OCTOBER - TRANSFORMATION; NOVEMBER - GRATITUDE; DECEMBER - ONENESS
- 2022 - January - New camera installed in sanctuary for live-streaming services on Zoom and Facebook. Gabriel Coleman, Board Trustee, overseeing purchase and installation. Matching grant from Unity Worldwide Ministries utilized.
2022 - February - Argyle "Guy" Abbott made his transition in early February.
Guy was a gregarious fellow who was very involved in Unity's activities, from participating in book study groups or talent shows to displaying his award-winning photography on the walls of the sanctuary. See the art exhibit flyer done for his 2014 exhibit.
He always lent a helping hand and volunteered as soundboard operator and fix-it person. He also was our resident photographer, recording events, gatherings, and portraits - many posted on the Unity website.
2022 - February - We were notified by her daughter Marsha, that Evelyn B. Albertson passed in Nov. 2021.
Evelyn was employed for many years as our church secretary. She had experience in accounting and insurance, and obtained her own real estate license. She loved our church and was an avid Gator fan.
Read her obituary on Milam's website. - https://milamfh.com/testimonial/evelyn-bittner-albertson/
Read Marsha's note.
Evelyn was employed for many years as our church secretary. She had experience in accounting and insurance, and obtained her own real estate license. She loved our church and was an avid Gator fan.
Read her obituary on Milam's website. - https://milamfh.com/testimonial/evelyn-bittner-albertson/
Read Marsha's note.
2022 - February - A fun-raiser was held to "Power up the Truth Tram" golf cart.
This buggy has been used to transport many from the parking lot to the front door of the church. It needed repairs and six batteries to get it running again. The total amount needed (over $900) was raised in less than a month thanks to generous donations.
The poster was done by the Youth Education Director, Gwen Lindsley, and displayed at church.
This buggy has been used to transport many from the parking lot to the front door of the church. It needed repairs and six batteries to get it running again. The total amount needed (over $900) was raised in less than a month thanks to generous donations.
The poster was done by the Youth Education Director, Gwen Lindsley, and displayed at church.
2022 - March 15 - Board of Trustees elected new officers for 2022-2023 term.
- April update - Phyllis Shepard resigned. Board appointed Barbara Gordon to fill vacancy; she will serve as secretary.
- April update - Phyllis Shepard resigned. Board appointed Barbara Gordon to fill vacancy; she will serve as secretary.
- Officers: Bonnie Kilgore, President; Rupali Robinson, Vice President; Barbara Gordon, Secretary; Jacque Tatum, Treasurer.
- Trustee: Gabriel Coleman
2022 - Church Maintenance by Unity of Gainesville members
- Deck was pressure washed at Mar. 19, 2022 work party and then primed & painted before Easter 2022 by Jane Roy
- Gathering room was painted by Jane Roy (June)
- Handrail was installed for easier access to stage in sanctuary by Paul Leiss (July). It had been located online by Jacque Tatum and Barbara Gordon and financed by Barbara.
THEME & AFFIRMATIONS for 2023: In this year of spiritual evolution, I am reminded of Grace and Gratitude; I am abundantly blessed.
Monthly affirmations created by Carla Palmer, Licensed Unity Teacher, and Rev. Betty Martin-Lewis, Minister of Record, inspired by Unity's 2023 Calendar: A Year of Grace & Gratitude..
Monthly affirmations created by Carla Palmer, Licensed Unity Teacher, and Rev. Betty Martin-Lewis, Minister of Record, inspired by Unity's 2023 Calendar: A Year of Grace & Gratitude..
- 2023 - February - Sanctuary was repainted by members led by Jane Roy, including Giovanna, Sara, and Kipp.
- 2023 - Sunday, February 12 - Valentine's Day Bake Sale Fundraiser held at the church. Over $200 was raised!
- 2023 - March - Front door and pole-sign at parking lot entryway were repainted by Giovanna Drausal, Church Adm.
- 2023 - Sunday, March 26 - Rev. Betty Martin-Lewis gives final talk as Minister of Record. She will start a new journey with Unity of Sarasota as a six-month full-time minister. We are so grateful for her dedicated service and know that she will be as great a blessing to Unity of Sarasota as she has been to us. The Board presented her with cards of appreciation and gifts from the congregation. A potluck meal was held after the Service.