This month we are exploring the theme of transformation as one way into our annual spiritual theme of “Rooted in Relationship.” Being part of a covenanting spiritual community involves continuous change. First Unitarian is not the same as we were in the 1880s or the 1980s, or the early 2000s. We will not be the same in 2033 as we are today in 2023. While some things about us will remain constant, there will be shifts and movement all along the way.  

Some changes are unwanted, such as the need to face a highly infectious pandemic that has led to so much loss of life. Other changes are hoped for and anticipated, such as the building of Buchan with classrooms and spaces we enjoy together on Sunday mornings and throughout the week. Some changes we are uncertain about; I hear when the screens went up in the sanctuary were met by both cheers and jeers. Some changes are minor movements, and others are fundamental shifts about who we are and who we serve.  

The welcoming of a new senior minister and the beginning of a new shared ministry between the ministers, staff team, members, and friends of all ages is a fertile time for nurturing growth and change, both big and small. 

Some of these changes are watering seeds that were already planted. You passed the 8th principle about “dismantling racism and other oppressions and building the beloved community” in May 2021. Now, we are inviting members to consider applying for the new Transformation Team, which will begin working together to facilitate our implementation of the 8th principle throughout our ministries and activities. We have changed our covenanted through the addition of that principle, and now we hope to be transformed by the shifts that will move us towards an anti-racist, anti-oppressive, multicultural, multigenerational community. If you would like to apply to be part of the team, please do so by May 26th at the following link.

Some of these changes may involve planting new seeds, or re-planting seeds where the ground has grown fallow. What new ministry might we begin with our houseless neighbors? Is it time to re-grow a young adult ministry for members and friends who are 18 – 35?  

The Community Conversations in May and June will provide opportunities for all of you who are members, friends, and visitors to gather and share your hopes and ideas about the future of First Unitarian in 2023 and beyond. We will be exploring what you (and others) appreciate about our congregational life together, and what would enhance your experiences and connections with our community. Thank you to the folks who are part of our Community Conversations Team with me: Emily Barrett, Caitlynn Hill, Theo Harper, Kirsten Lee, Teri Martin, Wendy Rankin, and Karen Shawcross.  

Mark your calendars and join us for a Community Conversation. You can sign up now for one of the 8 sessions listed below at the following link: https://forms.gle/3AwRifQ7CpFrnE8h8 

• Sunday, May 21st at 12:30pm In-Person (Childcare Provided)  
• Tuesday, May 23rd at 7:00pm on Zoom  
• Wednesday, May 24th at 12:00pm In-Person 
• Friday, May 26th at 12:00pm on Zoom  
• Wednesday, May 31st at 12:00pm on Zoom    
• Sunday, June 4th at 5:00pm on Zoom  
• Thursday, June 8th at 6:00pm In-Person 
• Sunday, June 11th at 12:30pm In-Person (Childcare Provided with RSVP) 

May we change and grow towards the light of more abundant life, love, and liberation. 

In faith, 

Rev. Alison