We are busy preparing the church for Celebration Sunday. The images of the steeple of Eliot Chapel on which we wrote about the importance of First Unitarian in our lives are being hung in the sanctuary. The choirs are ready to lift our spirits. Tables in Fuller Hall will be ready to receive the goodies for our brunch, and the baskets will be ready to receive our pledges.

It is a time of real change at the church and the stress of change can obscure the value and importance of what we find in this community. The conclusion of our sad and anxiety producing election season can make remembering what we love about First Unitarian more difficult as well.

As part of my own preparation for this Sunday, I have been reading some of the things that you wrote on those “steeples” about First Unitarian.

“We are such an important beacon of tolerance and pluralism.”

“It gives a space for my family and me to share the light and love of the universe.”

“A source of love and support during turbulent times.”

“Our Whole Lives, Religious Freedom, Freedom of Thought.”

“History of service and social justice ministry through the years.”

“It feeds our hunger for truth, beauty and justice.”

“A place for youth to learn and grow.”

“Music to lift our spirits and heal our souls.”

“Growing a Beloved Community in the heart of a city that is struggling with rapid change.”

The statements go on and on. Hundreds of them. They are the best reminder of the importance of what we do here, week after week, and year after year.

Our challenges as community are real. But First Unitarian does point us toward hope. This is not a bad time for Celebration Sunday. It is a good time. Because we need this church and the hope it helps us hold now, more than ever.

Looking forward to seeing you on Sunday.

Blessings,

Bill

P.S. For those who want the comfort and support of community on election night, we will hold a vespers service in Eliot Chapel at 6PM, followed by the opportunity to watch the election results together.