Greetings Church Family,
How are you these days? August and September were full months, and this congregation did a stellar job of jumping into the bustle of church life with ever-faithful spirits. We’ve had difficult conversations around the changes to the building, welcomed in a new staff member and ministry, and continue to consider who we are and long to be as a faith community post-pandemic. These are, as many of you have wisely noted, uncharted paths and waters. There is so much change in the air, and let’s not forget, I’m still new! Statistics say that it usually takes about five years for a new ministry to really settle into itself. This is normal and healthy.
But with change and uncharted-ness often comes anxiety and exhaustion. Sometimes conflicts can descend. This is also normal and healthy. We are, after all, human beings living through unprecedented times. This is not the time to grit our teeth and bear it out silently, or feel badly for feeling tired, overwhelmed or just ‘not ourselves.’ Spiritual communities of care, like ours, offers a sanctuary where we can share from the heart, and listen to one other. They also invite us into a place of quiet, rest and beauty. This is so important. In fact, it is the stuff of profound healing.
If you are struggling with all the change, maybe even finding yourself frightened, angry, or grief-stricken by it all, please reach out to me. Or to someone in this community. This is what church is for. And this parish is a place of love, listening and care. I hope you can put your trust in us.
Finally, I hope you know how much your presence and participation matters here. It makes a difference when you come and bring your children, or when you invite a friend. It makes a difference when you join in singing, share your joys or sorrows with us, or introduce yourself to someone you don’t know yet. It makes a difference when you come to worship with us. It makes a difference to me, and I trust it makes a difference to you. Let us all take heart in this, and celebrate the blessed-ness that is our beautiful faith community.
Stay connected to one another, reach out if you need to, and see you in church!
With love and in faith,
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.