The Unitarian Universalist Church of Hot Springs, 100 Norwalk St., welcome you this Sunday at 10:30am to “The Power of Joy,” presented by Cheryl Batts. As we enter into this season of giving, the holiday season, Christmas, there is always a feeling of expectancy, of hope. For some, their hearts are so heavy; they can’t feel the hope, the Joy. Why? And What Can You do About it? Come expecting to hear Why and What. Ms. Batts will also perform her own acapella rendition of “O Come Let Us Adore Him.” Rebecca Ricks will be at the piano for the other musical selections.

Cheryl L. Batts, was born in Hot Springs National Park, Arkansas in an area that is now the Pleasant Street Historic District. She was educated in Arkansas, Iowa and Indiana before receiving a B.A. degree in Arts Entertainment & Media Management with a Minor in Theatre Performance at Columbia College in Chicago, Illinois. Before returning home to Hot Springs, Cheryl had become a prolific speaker at business meetings; she spoke and acted as a facilitator at various meetings in West Africa, Iowa, and California.

Upon arrival in Hot Springs with the founding of People Helping Others Excel By Example, she spoke before the Arkansas Legislative Black Caucus on behalf of the preservation of African American history and culture in Hot Springs; and was involved in workshops with the Arkansas Humanities Council on the subject of Arkansas Black History. Her passion for theatre and comedy met head on at Lake Hamilton Bible Camp. Real truth is sometimes hard to swallow, honest laughter at your own faults, sometimes makes it easier to take. These days you will find her at Haven United Methodist Church as the Assistant Minister of Community Outreach and Pastoral Care.

Minister Batts has one son, Brett, his wife, Sonivette, five grandchildren and one great-grandchild.

Please join us for Religious Exploration at 9:00am, followed by coffee and refreshments at 10:00am. All are welcome.