We are 4.5 years into our five-year focus on developmental goals. We have been learning how to do church in a healthy, productive way. In this year, the Board has been focused on exploring the best governance model for our congregation and on holding listening sessions to discern our direction and vision for the next few years.

One of the interesting ideas we have been digesting in recent readings and meetings is that we serve our mission, that our mission is what we work to satisfy and grow into. As I kicked this idea around for days it made more and more sense and so when we were confronted with an emergency in the shelter program, I used our mission as my guide in determining if RVUUF should undertake the last remaining night of shelter.

With no social hall and a sanctuary full of chairs, ours was a little more daunting task than other congregations.OHRA, who oversees the shelter program, was at the ready with all monetary and staff support. I was quickly joined by our Minister who said” Go for It,” our Social Justice in Action Team who voted unanimously to pursue this further and then to our Board who also voted to go ahead if we could satisfy fire and safety issues. We consulted with Building and Grounds team and they donated their time to put up new exit signs required by the fire marshall and paid for by OHRA. Scott came in early and showed the clean up people how to find materials needed for clean up and how to do the chairs. Many RVUUFians volunteered for listening, hosting and food duty on Thursday nights.

We do not know how long we will be hosting the shelter. As soon as the County gives final approval for the one site shelter, our guests will be cared for there but we will continue to support Thursday nights.

We have embraced diversity, empowered connection and engaged in the work.

Way to go RVUUFIANS!

Diane Werich
Board President