Class Schedule
YOGANETICS® Spring Class Series
12 weeks / 24 Mondays & Thursdays
January 16 - April 19, Mornings: 9:30 to 10:30 a.m. / Evenings: 6:30 to 7:30 p.m.
With Wyatt Townley, E-RYT 500
(no class held on weeks March 12 & April 9)
First class is free! It’s never too late to start yoga, but the key is to find the right technique and the right teacher. No matter how old you are, what size you are, or how stiff you feel, this gentle system of yoga welcomes you as you are, and moves you toward greater energy, flexibility, and sense of well being.
With over thirty years teaching experience, Wyatt Townley is recognized at the highest level by Yoga Alliance as one of the teachers who “helped lay the foundation for yoga in the United States.” Her book on the system she developed, Yoganetics (HarperCollins), was deemed an “Editor’s Choice” by Yoga Journal, and she has been featured in Self, Dance Magazine, Parents, Body and Soul, and The New York Times.
For more information and to register, visit the Yoganetics table in January after services, call 913.381.1984 or visit www.yoganetics.com. (Fee-based class. First class free for new students!)
Who Have You Come Here To Be?
7 to 9 p.m., Thursdays, February 2 thru March 1
With Rev. Kelly Isola, M.Div.
This 5-week class will provide an extended opportunity for participants to be united in studying the spiritual concepts in the book, ‘Who Have You Come Here to BE? 101 Possibilities for Contemplation’, written by Rima Bonario, Jane Simmons, and Kelly Isola. You will be uplifted and transformed by this teaching which weaves together ancient spiritual principles and modern scientific understandings.
This 5-week series invites you to explore:
- How to see and live from the Divine within
- How to harness the power of the natural elements (fire, earth, water, air, cosmos) and tap into the alchemy of their archetypal meaning
- How to use New Thought tools such as spiritual denials and affirmations
- How to develop the discipline of a daily practice that connects one to the power of the heart
By powerfully stepping into this 5-week series and book study, your congregation will do more than think about these concepts; they will have a chance to live them. $10 suggested Love Offering per session. Register on-line.
Kelly Isola is co-author of ‘Who Have You Come Here To Be?’ and is a Certified Intentional Ministry Consultant for Unity Worldwide Ministries. She is also an adjunct faculty member for the Spiritual Enrichment and Education Program at Unity Institute® and Seminary and host of Spiraling Consciousness on Unity Online Radio. More information about Kelly online.
Bible Interpretation: Hebrew Scriptures
7 to 9 p.m., Mondays, February 6 thru March 12 (no class on February 20)
With Rev. Eileen Stulak
Are you interested in reading and viewing the Hebrew Bible through a metaphysical lens? Have you ever wanted to find deeper meaning in the sacred scriptures? This class will offer an introduction to the metaphysical interpretation of the writings in the Hebrew Bible, or Old Testament. Participants will begin to understand and interpret scripture from a metaphysical viewpoint, as well as discover ways in which they can apply the teachings of the scripture to their lives today. Suggested Love Offering: $10 per session. Register on-line.
This course offers 10 core credits in the Spiritual Education and Enrichment program at Unity Institute. Rev. Eileen Stulak currently serves as Associate Minister at Unity Church of Overland Park.
Chakra Meditation
7 to 9 p.m., Tuesday, February 21
With Craig McAndrew
What are chakras? How do they affect our body, mind, relationships, and spirit? This class will educate you on the chakra energy centers. It will also help you to practice a chakra meditation you can do on your own and balance yourself and your life. Suggested Love Offering: $10. Register on-line.
Craig McAndrew has been in the counseling field since 1996, a member of the spiritual counseling team at Unity Church of Overland Park since 2001, and is the author of the book entitled, “Forgiving Judas: A Man’s Journey to Forgive His Brother.” With specialization in addictions and compulsive behaviors, Craig’s work with clients is a ‘wholistic’ approach helping them to find balance in their physical, emotional, social and spiritual lives.
Staying in Touch, with Greeting Cards
1 to 2:30 p.m., Wednesdays, February 22 and 29
With Nancy Ericson
Long-time UCOP congregant Nancy Ericson has created a personal ministry of staying connected with people through the creation and sending of greeting cards. Join Nancy as she shares her special way of sending cards to elderly people who live alone and welcome articles in the mail on a regular basis. See how this simple gesture offers others the gift of laughter, joy, and appreciation that come from knowing someone cares. Nancy shares, ‘There are many lonely people near us, both male and female. It has become my passion over the years and I have lots of items to share with you. It is my dream that you will come to one or two “get-togethers” and become encouraged to try it. You’ll love it!!’ Register on-line.
Angels, Guides and Totems, Oh My!
1 to 3:30 p.m., Thursday, February 23
With Steffany Barton
Each of us travels through life supported by a beautiful array of spirit supporters. From angels, to spirit guides, to guardians, to totem animals, the resources we need to thrive stand ready to access. During this class, we will learn to make contact with our spirit helpers, learn to distinguish their messages, and understand how to powerfully tap into their wonderful support and unconditional Love. Course fee: $50. Register on-line.
Steffany Barton is a Registered Nurse and Reiki master who is an active member or UCOP. She has served the spiritual community in Kansas City over the past eight years as an intuitive, medium, and teacher.
In the Presence Meditation
7 to 9 p.m., Wednesday, February 29
With Debra Baker
This meditation provides the opportunity to go into a deep, deep experience of the Presence. Meditation does wonderful things to our human bodies, giving them vital time to revitalize and heal themselves. At the same time, our souls experience their real, true selves, going to the place inside that is timeless and eternal. After the meditation, there will be a sacred prayer circle to share and honor one another’s prayer intentions. You’ll experience such serenity you won’t want it to end. Suggested Love Offering: $10. Register on-line.
Debra Darpel Baker has been helping people to heal their lives for 20 years as a spiritual counselor, energy worker, Reiki Master and teacher. She is a gifted medium and intuitive whose readings have been described as “life changing,” “profound,” and “extremely accurate.”
Guided Meditation
7 to 8 p.m., Tuesday, March 6
With UCOP Guided Meditation Team Member Craig McAndrew
Come experience an hour of guided meditation, offered by our team of meditations facilitators. Offered on the first Tuesday of the month, participants will experience various meditation methods and techniques as they are guided into a space of relaxation, peace, and oneness with God. Give yourself the gift of taking time away from your busy schedules. Allow yourself to experience the present of God in you. Suggested Love Offering: $10. Register on-line.
The Akashic Record
1 to 3:30 p.m., Thursdays, March 8 and 22
With Steffany Barton
During this class we will discuss the what the Akashic record is, learn the historical and legendary background of this spiritual tool, and experience working in the Akashic record. Class is open to experienced and new spiritual students. Course fee: $50 per session. Register on-line.
Steffany Barton is a Registered Nurse and Reiki master who is an active member or UCOP. She has served the spiritual community in Kansas City over the past eight years as an intuitive, medium, and teacher.
Interfaith Series
7 to 9 p.m., Mondays, March 19 thru April 30 (no class on April 9)
With Carrah Quigley
This 6 week course is designed to give you the basic foundation of the 5 most popular religions of the world: Hinduism, Judaism, Buddhism, Christianity and Islam.
Learn the story of how these religions began: their history, most prominent figures, most significant sacred scriptures and basic theological beliefs; sects, offshoots and other relevant, tertiary religions will be mentioned briefly. The 6th week will be devoted to how these faiths might work together and how they each tell the story of the evolution of our understanding of God and our own human evolution of consciousness.
Participants will walk away with a basic and accurate understanding of the story and history of each religion covered, their foundational theological contributions and how each fits into the great sphere of faiths.
While the class is given in historical chronological order, the class is not designed as a cumulative course; however attendance to three or more classes is helpful for the information covered in the 6th week. Please come with an open mind, open heart and lots of questions. This is your opportunity to inquire and discuss other faiths in a safe and mutually-curious environment. These classes will be given in lecture format while also using artwork, scripture readings and class discussions as tools for learning. Suggested Love Offering: $10 per session. Register on-line.
Week 1 – Hinduism - If you have ever wondered where Yoga came from, why the God Shiva has a ring of fire around him or why people seem to be worshipping a man with the head of an elephant, this is the class for you. Hinduism is the oldest, most complex and vast of the world’s faiths. It is also the most neglected in greater inter-faith dialogue, yet it is the most important. Within Hinduism, originated the idea that a human had a soul and this soul could communicate directly with God and eventually seek union with the divine. This notion has influenced every other faith on earth and no doubt has influenced you. Join the class to explore this concept further.
This class will discuss the history of Hinduism and why the name “Hinduism” is a troublesome label. The names and purposes of various Gods and Goddesses will be covered, as well as the scriptures, Yoga and basic theological beliefs in Hinduism’s most prominent forms. Come with the questions you have always wanted to ask.
Week 2 – Judaism - Judaism is an incredible religion from the ancient world. Practitioners worship a God of history and law and strike a balance within the tension of what laws to follow and what history to attribute to God. This class is for anyone who wants to know how a religion devoted to sacrifice at a specific temple managed to survive losing said temple and the ability to sacrifice. How does a religion so devoted to tradition change its traditions and still be viable? The survival of an ancient people and their beliefs have much to teach us about how to adapt, and how to stay true to ourselves, individually and collectively.
This class will examine Judaism, from its ancient form to the present. Major movements and philosophies will be discussed as well as history’s impact on the religion and how it has had to shape and change itself in order to accommodate modernity. There will be a brief introduction of Post-Holocaust Jewish Theology and a major portion of the lecture will also include an exploration of Jewish Holidays and a trip through the Jewish year and its celebrations. Please join us for this evening and learn how sacrifice can become an act of kindness.
Week 3 - Buddhism - This class will explore Buddhism from both philosophical and historical perspectives. We will cover the life of the Buddha and his teachings, which began with the Four Noble Truths and were put into practice through the Eight Fold Path. We will discuss the migration of Buddhism from India to China, Japan and the Middle East. Last of the migrations, the West, will be explored at depth.
You are invited to share in the joy, compassion and serenity that is Buddhism. This class will help you develop an understanding of what “the cessation of suffering” can mean for you and how the life of the Buddha still resonates today. You will walk away with an everyday understanding of Buddhism and learn that it is more than detachment and acknowledgement of suffering; it is a peaceful way of life full of passion and oneness. Please join us.
Week 4 – Christianity - Do you think you know your own religion? This class will examine Christianity from a theological perspective, as it began and then moved through history all the way through to the 21st Century. We will begin with Christianity as a sect of Judaism and how that theology greatly informed the Gospels. We will then, very quickly, move through the changing theology from the early Desert Fathers through to the Reformation. We will spend a good amount of time on Liberation Theology, modern sects and modern perspectives of Christianity.
While this class looks more like a historical review, it will actually be about how Christian theology has evolved and continues to evolve. Christianity is one of the most vast and textured of the great religions and it has endured to present day as a vital force in the modern age. What does the future of Christianity look like? If you want to know more about why Christianity is important today or how it came to prominence from a small Jewish sect then this class is for you. Please join us for a lively and powerful class about Christian theology.
Week 5 – Islam - One of the most mysterious and beautiful expressions of God is the religion of Islam. This class will be devoted to uncovering that mystery and helping to provide a picture of the religion without the hyped up static which can cloud its understanding. There will be extensive time spent on the geography and history of the beginning of Islam, as well as an in depth look at its prophet Mohammed, peace be upon him.
Why and how did Islam come about? What was so attractive about it? Why did it spread like wildfire? We will cover the teachings of Islam, the basics, such as the Five Pillars and the Holidays. Sufism will be explored as well as the great contributions of Arabic cultural during the Golden Age of Islam in the 9th Century.
The focus of this class will be for people to gain a basic foundation for understanding Islam and its history. One quarter of the world’s population considers itself Muslim. This has enormous implications for how we view ourselves globally and how we move into the future. Knowledge of Islam is fundamental to understanding how we are to engage it in all aspects of globalization. Please join us for an evening of the mystery, the beauty and the wonder of Islam. Salaam.
Since the age of 17, Carrah Quigley has explored the different religions of the world and how they deeply inform personal faith. Throughout her travels and experience in different religious environments she has accumulated a wealth of knowledge both academic and personal. She holds a Master’s Degree, with distinction, in Ecumenics, from Trinity College Dublin, Ireland and a Bachelor’s in Religious Studies from University of Arizona. She studied at Union Theological Seminary in New York and completed graduate courses in the History of Islam and Christianity at UMKC and Conflict Resolution Studies in Belfast, Northern Ireland.
Carrah also serves on staff at Unity Church of Overland Park as the Youth & Family Ministry Assistant.
In the Presence Meditation
7 to 9 p.m.,
Tuesday, March 20
With Debra Baker
This meditation provides the opportunity to go into a deep, deep experience of the Presence. Meditation does wonderful things to our human bodies, giving them vital time to revitalize and heal themselves. At the same time, our souls experience their real, true selves, going to the place inside that is timeless and eternal. After the meditation, there will be a sacred prayer circle to share and honor one another’s prayer intentions. You’ll experience such serenity you won’t want it to end. Suggested Love offering: $10. Register on-line.
Debra Darpel Baker has been helping people to heal their lives for 20 years as a spiritual counselor, energy worker, Reiki Master and teacher. She is a gifted medium and intuitive whose readings have been described as “life changing,” “profound,” and “extremely accurate.”
The Self-Forgiveness Process
7 to 9 p.m., Tuesday, March 27
With Craig McAndrew
Sometimes when we aren’t ready to forgive someone else, it may be time to forgive ourselves. Come to this class and discover how you can forgive yourself and free yourself from limiting beliefs that are holding you back. Suggested Love Offering: $10. Register on-line.
Craig McAndrew has been in the counseling field since 1996, a member of the spiritual counseling team at Unity Church of Overland Park since 2001, and is the author of the book entitled, “Forgiving Judas: A Man’s Journey to Forgive His Brother.” With specialization in addictions and compulsive behaviors, Craig’s work with clients is a ‘wholistic’ approach helping them to find balance in their physical, emotional, social and spiritual lives.
Native American Flute Class
6:30 to 8 p.m., Thursday, March 29
With Janalea Hoffman
The Native American flute is a very inventive, simplistic, and often hypnotic sound. Because it is so easy to play and much easier than traditional Western instruments such as guitars, French horns, clarinets, pianos, and silver flutes, it lends itself easily as a meditative tool. Many people find it earthy and grounding. Others find it transporting and ethereal. The beautiful, haunting sound is great for facilitating an inward experience. In this experiential workshop, Janalea Hoffman will teach you the basics of the native scale and how to create native-style music from the heart. In addition, you will learn how you can use this instrument as a therapeutic tool. No prior musical training needed! In fact, many who have attended prior workshops felt they had no musical talent and left feeling joyful at having discovered their inner musician!
Each class participant will have a flute to play with a plastic tube (for sanitary reasons). Supplies are limited, so pre-registration is appreciated to assure your space in the class. Workshop fee: $25 per person, due at time of registration. Minimum number of 8 participants required. Register on-line.
Music, with all its therapeutic properties, has been Janalea Hoffman’s life mission for the past 30 years. She takes her music to hospital rooms to play with other musicians at patients’ bedsides. For the last three years, Janalea has also presented over 30 ‘healing concerts’ at medical centers, churches and various public venues – for cancer patients, medical personnel, and the general public.
Unity for Today: Principles for Positive Living
7 to 9 p.m., Tuesday, April 3 – May 8
With Rev. Eileen Stulak
We say that Unity is a positive path for spiritual living - that it offers practical, spiritual teachings that empower abundant and meaningful living. What does that mean? It means that our teachings have meaning and power that stretch far beyond the Sunday morning experience. It means that what we believe can be integrated into every aspect of our lives. Come experience our teachings and practices at greater depth. In this 6-week class beginning on July 14th, we will take our teachings to the next level and offer you spiritual tools to use in everyday life. We will explore a broad scope of spiritual truths and see how the foundational teachings of Unity support each one. In doing so, we will experience community as we support each other’s journey of transformation. Suggested Love Offering: $10. Register on-line.
Rev. Eileen Stulak currently serves as the Associate Minister of Congregational Care and Ministry Programs at Unity Church of Overland Park.
Metaphysics I, Part 1
7 to 9 p.m., Wednesdays, April 11 – May 9
With Jennifer Sacks
Join Unity Student Minister Jennifer Sacks on an exciting adventure to begin learning what Metaphysics means in Unity. Explore some of the fundamental principles of spiritual law and how you can apply them in your life to gain more love, improved health, and infinite prosperity. By studying the works of prominent Unity writers, as well as specific metaphysical and theological ideas presented in Heart-Centered Metaphysics, you will be encouraged to awaken your awareness and understanding of spiritual Truth. Through the consistent use of these practical principles, you can realize more of your spiritual potential and transform your life.
In this class, we will study:
- Divine Will, Divine Plan and Divine Guidance
- Metaphysics and Truth
- Prayer and Meditation
- The Power of Silence
- Self-Knowledge
- Spiritual Evolution and Building Consciousness
- Our Purpose
Required textbook: ‘Heart-Centered Metaphysics’, by Paul Hasselbeck. Suggested Love Offering: $10. Register on-line.
Jennifer Sacks is a Unity student minister who will be ordained in June 2012. She has worked as a high school English teacher, educational trainer, advocacy journalist, editor and public relations executive. Originally from New Jersey, Jennifer began her Unity journey at Unity Church by the Shore, Neptune, N.J., where she served as guest preacher, platform assistant, worship team leader, and prayer chaplain. Some of her scholarly interests include practical theology, Bible studies, and homiletics. Jennifer also is a practitioner of NVC, and does ongoing training through the New York Center for Non-Violent Communications. She holds a Master’s degree in Literature and a Bachelor’s degree in Sociology from American University in Washington, D.C.
The Four Elements
1 to 3:30 p.m., Thursdays, April 12 and 26
With Steffany Barton
In this class, we will learn about the four elements of nature, Earth, Air, Fire, and Water, how these elements are expressed in our own lives, and how to bring our lives into balance using the elements. We will learn to connect with the spirit of each element, and each participant will create a sacred altar using nature. Part of the class will be outdoors. Spring into balance! Course fee: $50 per session. Register on-line.
Steffany Barton is a Registered Nurse and Reiki master who is an active member or UCOP. She has served the spiritual community in Kansas City over the past eight years as an intuitive, medium, and teacher.
In the Presence Meditation (Combined with Guided Meditation this month)
7 to 9 p.m., Tuesday, April 17
With Debra Baker
This meditation provides the opportunity to go into a deep, deep experience of the Presence. Meditation does wonderful things to our human bodies, giving them vital time to revitalize and heal themselves. At the same time, our souls experience their real, true selves, going to the place inside that is timeless and eternal. After the meditation, there will be a sacred prayer circle to share and honor one another’s prayer intentions. You’ll experience such serenity you won’t want it to end. Suggested Love offering: $10. Register on-line.
Debra Darpel Baker has been helping people to heal their lives for 20 years as a spiritual counselor, energy worker, Reiki Master and teacher. She is a gifted medium and intuitive whose readings have been described as “life changing,” “profound,” and “extremely accurate.”
The Forgiveness Practice
7 to 9 p.m., Tuesday, April 17
With Craig McAndrew
Do you know what Charles Fillmore said about forgiveness? Would you like to find out more about how forgiveness can improve ALL areas of your life? Craig McAndrew will share his true life experiences and guide you through the forgiveness process. Suggested Love Offering: $10. Register on-line.
Craig McAndrew has been in the counseling field since 1996, a member of the spiritual counseling team at Unity Church of Overland Park since 2001, and is the author of the book entitled, “Forgiving Judas: A Man’s Journey to Forgive His Brother.” With specialization in addictions and compulsive behaviors, Craig’s work with clients is a ‘wholistic’ approach helping them to find balance in their physical, emotional, social and spiritual lives.
Unity Church of Overland Park and You
1 to 4 p.m., Sunday, April 29
With Rev. Eileen Stulak and Julie Randolph
This class has been designed for those who are newer to Unity and/or Unity Church of Overland Park. The materials presented will offer the history of Unity and UCOP. In addition, participants will hear from various ministry staff members as they share their individual roles and responsibilities and provide information pertaining to volunteer teams, outreach programs and teams, and affinity groups. The class will offer opportunities for attendees to uncover and begin offering their gifts through stepping into service for the ministry in some way. As with all classes, participants will begin to build relationships and community with one another. Suggested Love Offering: $10. Register on-line.
Rev. Eileen Stulak currently serves as the Associate Minister at Unity Church of Overland Park. Julie Randolph currently serves as the Director of Worship and Volunteers at Unity Church of Overland Park.