A Turning Point

Hello Allen Avenue members and friends!

One of the ministry practices I carry with me from my last congregation is writing a short weekly note to the congregation. Sometimes I might have information to share, other times a reflection, and others something I’ve read that I think might resonate with you. Since I began my time with you on August 1st, I’ve included my note in the Friday EBlast. Starting this week, I’ll be sending it as a separate email that will arrive in your inbox on Thursdays.

This week feels like a turning point in looking back at summer and ahead to fall. I know some of our children will begin school this coming week (by the way, I am beyond excited to meet the kids, youth, and young adults of A2U2 come September!!). Others of us are returning to work or to a busier or different schedule. Ready or not, here we come. I hope these words by author and professor Kate Bowler (whose work I adore) will bless you as they did me.

In faith,

Rev. Tara

“A Blessing for the Start of a New School Year (Is Anyone Really Ready?!)”

The year is tilting toward the start of school again,

But truth be told, we’re not ready.

We’re still hanging on to summer, to the promise it held

For long-awaited connections and celebrations,

For refreshment for our bodies and souls

In water and sky and color and sunlight,

And all those moments given to us

Where we could linger just a little longer. 

 

Now that it’s almost over, we don’t want to let it go. 

The beauty. The freedom. All that was life-giving. 

 

God, could you help us stretch it, extend it,

And maybe even blend it 

into this coming school year?

 

Parents, students, teachers, all,

May your newly structured days breathe with creativity,

Your new duties be infused with delight. 

 

As you write on those fresh new calendars

May you trust that your plans are a lot like magic ink.

Much may seem to disappear into obscurity,

But whatever is done in love will remain.

 

May it be so.