Writing this article I’m in my office while the Ashland Plays are happening in the Great Hall packed with people. On Oct. 17 I attended the Rogue World Ensemble performance held at RVUUF, again packed with people of all ages! It’s so refreshing to be part of a UU congregation who opens their doors to organizations in the community who are in need of space. Not every congregation is so welcoming or may not have a building to offer to anyone in their community. The RVUUFians who were here in 1990, the year the building was purchased, had a vision as to what this building might offer themselves and to the community. Their vision is manifested today. All the more reason for the RVUUFians of 2015 to begin to dream about and re-imagining what more could we offer ourselves, the Rogue Valley and the generations to come. The Board has created an ad hoc team to guide the congregation in a process where together you discover a vision of the future that makes clear the mission of RVUUF. RVUUF in 2020….you can begin now to imagine…..it’s only five years away!

In order to better envision the future one must look back to the founders and the history of RVUUF to understand the connection to the future. Behind the scenes at RVUUF there have been a few hard working members who have spent time researching RVUUF’s past, talking with members who’ve been here for 25 years or more, and they are joining the worship team in putting together a celebration on Nov. 22 during the Sunday service. They are also planning a Board Reunion Luncheon on Monday, Nov. 16 at noon, under the balcony for anyone who has ever served on the RVUUF Board. This event is to honor all those who have contributed to creating all enjoyed today. 

How timely that the creation of RVUUF’s anniversary in November and the re-visioning a mission for the future of RVUUF in January are back to back. On Jan. 30 the congregation will be invited to a Saturday gathering led by Janine Larson, the UUA Consultant for the Pacific Region. She will help us tickle out your hopes for RVUUF in 2020 consistent with UU values and principles. Everyone is encouraged to attend this gathering that includes food, as usual, and lively storytelling from the past and present of RVUUF. Stay tuned for more about the Founders Celebration in November and the Vision/Mission discovery beginning in January 2016.

Rev. Nan L. White
RVUUF Developmental Minister