Hello!
September brings the beginning of a new church year, a time to rededicate ourselves to each other and our community. As the Board looks to the year ahead, we are grateful for the three Listening Circle sessions that have been so well attended and lovingly facilitated by our Lay Ministers. An additional session is in the works.
The conversation at the two sessions I’ve attended were heart-felt and reflected a range of viewpoints, reflections on our history, and hopes for our future. It’s also striking how similar they are to Board discussions.
The Board held a planning retreat in August where we began the work of setting the Board’s goals for the next 3-5 years. To me, one of the strongest themes was breaking through silos and creating more connections. Communication and time together will help our community move through conflict. Can we expand opportunities for people to participate in leadership, in the life and work of the congregation? Could these opportunities create places where those connections can happen?
The potential of this work is, to me, very powerful and potentially transformative for our community. I am grateful to be in this work with you all.
Sadly, two Board members resigned this summer, Caitlynn Hill and Adam House. We miss their presence and their voices deeply and are grateful for their dedication.
We look forward to communicating more with you as the church year unfolds. Look for forums this Fall, a second edition of the FAQ regarding the changes in the music ministry, and a celebration of the 100th anniversary of the Eliot Chapel (first event is September 29).
With thanks,
Julia Lee Griffiths
Second Vice Moderator