Greetings Church Family,
This month our theme is Abundance, which I’m looking forward to. This theme can feel challenging when the world feels so bleak. It takes a lot of spiritual muscle to face hard truths, while not succumbing to the dangers of scarcity thinking (the belief that resources like money, time, even love, are limited and a fear that there will never be enough.) However, the practice of Abundance doesn’t turn us away from reality, it helps us see the fullness of it. Interestingly, organizations who are guided by missions rooted in Abundance are more collaborative, creative, generous, and foster cultures of gratitude (which motivates more giftedness!) Abundance helps us face challenge with hope and energy, and is expressed in our Shared Values as ‘Generosity’–which isn’t just about money, but about thinking. Many of you have been practicing Abundance in your leadership. I’m glad to be a part of a community who is working hard at this. You consistently remind me about all that there is to be grateful for too. What a blessing it is to share in this Abundant ministry with you!
You should know that I have been at church every Sunday since September 7th. This is atypical for ministers who are meant to take one Sunday off per month as is written in our standard Ministerial Agreement with congregations. This year I thought to try something different and be present for a longer stretch at the start of the church year. This allowed me to get a stronger sense of newer friends in our midst, and to spend time with our kids downstairs while Kyle Belmont led worship–we called this a ‘pulpit swap’ and plan to do it again next year! I will take a few more Sundays off in the months ahead to make up for September and October. Regular time off isn’t just healthy for clergy, but also for congregations. It’s important to experience other leaders’ gifts in worship that span beyond the gifts I have to offer you. This really is a lived expression of Abundance!
My dear friends, please take good care of yourself. And one another. Don’t forget that we are in this together and this church is here for you. As am I.
With abundant love,
Rev. Sophia
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.