Dearest Church Family,
Activist Angela Y. Davis once said, “It is in collectivities that we find reservoirs of hope and optimism.” Amid the latest news coming out of Washington DC around abortion rights*, we need reminders such as these more than ever. I certainly do.
And so, amid the uneasiness of these difficult days, my message is simply to take heart. Do not spend your spirit dry in hopelessness or despair. For in this church, our lanterns are lit, our souls are intact, and we side with a love so powerful that it puts to flight all hate and fear. I witness this powerful love and hope in you every day. In your kindnesses, in your laughter, in your asking for help, and in your giving it. I hear it in your big questions, and I feel it in your wrestling with the often-elusive answers. And nothing can tear at this Dear Ones.
We forget this don’t we? My sense is that this is why we gather–to remember! The month of May offers a myriad of ways to do just this. I hope you will read through our communications carefully and show up. I believe in the inexplicable healing, hope and resilience that comes from connection with our fellows, and this church is one of those rare and wondrous reservoirs of just that. I hope you will find something at First Parish over the coming weeks that speaks to you and faithfully say ‘yes’ to it, for we are stronger with you here among us. I pray you know that.
Be kind to yourself. Be kind to one another. Stay connected. Hold tight to hope.
Together in faith and love,
Rev. Sophia
*If you would like to engage more deeply with our faith’s call towards reproductive justice, these resources might be a good starting place:
Reverend Sophia Lyons
Rev. Sophia is committed to radical welcome and spreading the good news that is our bold Unitarian Universalist faith. Some of her areas of interest include interfaith partnerships, addictions ministry, spiritual direction, and working towards collective liberation for all. Rev. Sophia aspires to live her life and fulfill her ministry guided by spiritual seeking, big love, and the seven principles of Unitarian Universalism.