Dear ones of UUSS~

While we were in seminary, we had the gift of learning from a wise and wonderful professor, Patti Lawrence. She had worked at Starr King School for the Ministry in many capacities including Dean, Mentor, Advisor, and Professor. When there were big plans or hard decisions to be made, she would often say, “Let’s start with what we know.”

As we begin this 2020-21 year, with so much that is in flux and unsettled, we start with what we know. We know that we are your co-ministers. We know that we get to work with compassionate, creative, and committed staff and lay-leaders. We know that, in these particularly challenging times, we need to collectively put extra energy into connection and care for one another.

We know that Unitarian Universalists are working with community partners and playing a role in the upcoming election, the uprising for racial justice, and addressing the inequities made even more apparent by the pandemic. We know that there is a role for each of us in making this region a better place. We know that we are excited about upcoming worship services, and some new programs beginning this fall.

We know that you matter, and that it makes a difference when you are present. We know that some of you are doing really well in your own lives even as you might be heartsick at the state of the nation. We know that many of you are struggling with isolation, with the losses, with the fear of getting sick. We know that we miss being with you in person, singing together, and having time with your children and youth.

We know that we hope to see you this Friday or Saturday at the water pouring/collecting ritual, to hear from you during this week to have us symbolically pour some water for you and to share a word or phrase as to what this water means to you. As we create a new way of having a water ceremony that honors the power of community, we hope you will send in a photo of you/your family in, near, or on the water. We know that we don’t know everything we need to know to face the coming year. And we know we need one another as we lean in to September.

In faith~ Rev. Lynn and Rev. Wendy