Dear UUSS,

We are grateful to have participated in professional development, governance, and worship at Ministry Days of the UU Ministers Association (UUMA). Wendy’s worship service was incredibly well received by our colleagues and Lynn did some very meaningful work with the Covenant Relations Team when a few folks were acting in ways that were outside of our covenantal agreements and the CRT invited them back into right relationship.

We also attended, with several other UUSSers, and Kristin and Robin, our Unitarian Universalist Association (UUA) General Assembly (GA). The delegates had an active text thread in which we were able to discuss the many business items of the GA including important bylaw changes, passing the Statement of Conscience, and electing new UUA Board members including the Rev. Sam Trumbore.

This is a very good thing as his opponent seems to be interested in taking our faith backwards rather than to continue to examine privilege, recognize racism, and dismantle the aspects of white supremacy that live within us and our systems. And we had another thread for folks who were simply attending the GA which we checked in on at intervals to see how things were going.

It is hard work and it is deeply faithful work to put our first principle into actual practice. Affirming and promoting the inherent worth and dignity of every person means we do what we can to ensure that Black Lives Matter, that Trans/Non-binary/Genderqueer folks are seen as human, that those with disabilities are people first, and so much more.

As we gathered we also considered the devastating impacts of Climate destruction. With temperatures raging all over the country, the Earth is trying to tell us something-a lesson we could have learned but seemingly did not these last several months, stop, rest, take care of yourselves and one another, need and acquire less, travel less, use less resources, make sure your neighbors have what they need, disrupt capitalism’s demand to produce and consume.

We are so inspired to continue our commitment to deepening our covenant and strengthening our shared ministry with you. And for now, we rest. We have been going all out for nearly all of the 475 days since we needed to close the buildings due to COVID.

May you find a few moments each day (or more!) to rest, to pause and reflect, to recognize our interdependence, and to generate more love through our faithful living. Have a lovely July!

With gratitude,

Rev. Wendy and Rev. Lynn