Dear Friends,
It seems impossible that October is here already, but it must be true because not only the calendar, but the leaves and the wind and the angle of the sun tell me it’s true. Our theme for the month is “Sanctuary,” which has me thinking about the ways we are called to create spaces that shelter the most tender parts of ourselves, as well as the vulnerable among us and in the world.
Creating shelter is a matter of both welcome and boundaries. We welcome the people and try to keep out the things that are hurting them: the elements and the storms that cause suffering and destruction. Here at RVUUF, that has meant learning new ways to handle conflict and disagreement so that the storm stays outside while the people are invited in.
Soon we will begin a series of conversations about the future. We’ll need to remember what we’ve learned. First, everyone’s ideas, contributions, and dreams are important, but no one’s are more important than another’s. This is the fundamental value that upholds democracy. We’ve seen what happens when some people are held up as more important and deserving of power and praise than others. We’ve seen what happens when some people demand that they be listened to while others are ignored. In response, we recommit ourselves to one of the taproots of our Unitarian Universalist values: every person is equally important and welcome.
Which leads to the other thing we must remember: How we treat one another is as important and what we accomplish. We can talk about “inherent worth and dignity” and “equity, justice and compassion,” but if we do not live into them, our Unitarian Universalism is nothing. Covenant and compassion must be our guides. Even if we came up with the perfect seven-point strategic plan for our future together, if we did it in ways that hurt one another, it would be a sham. If we want RVUUF to thrive as a loving, compassionate, and caring community, we must build that future with compassion, care and love.
We’ll begin the project of planning for the future on Nov. 4. We will start with a lively, lovely Sunday service. Then, Sunday afternoon (or at one of our follow-up events) we will begin planning by holding a heartfelt conversation about congregational growth and health. You can begin thinking about the three guiding questions now:
- Who do we want to be?
- Whom do we serve?
- What choices do we have?
We will consider these questions, listening for answers that will help us continue to build both the beloved community of now and a future together.
Love will guide us,
Rev. Sean
P.S. A word regarding Social Media: I am very present on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram, and consider them part of my ministry. I do not make friend requests to congregants, but will accept requests from people I know. You are also always welcome to choose to “follow” rather than “friend.” RVUUF also has both Facebook and Twitter accounts. If you are an active Social Media user, let us know!
And, as always, If you’d like to find a time to meet with me, the easiest and most efficient way is to go to calendly.com/seanden. If you’re not the type to use online tools, you can call the office during the week, when a RVUUF Builder office volunteer can help you make an appointment. My regular office hours are Tuesday and Thursday 10 a.m. to noon and Wednesday 3 p.m. to 7 p.m. I’m available other times by appointment.