Happy Thanksgiving, A2U2!

If you’d like to join our informal gathering today from 10-11am, you can join with this Zoom link: https://yale.zoom.us/j/99339515013. If you are visiting with family today, I wish you deep patience (!!!) and the joy of connection! While I’ll be out of the pulpit this Sunday and next, I’m still working so please don’t hesitate to reach out. This Sunday worship will be led by guest preacher Rev. Paul Langston-Daley. Rev. Paul is a much beloved UU minister and a deeply compassionate, wise human. I know you’ll enjoy your time with him.

Sunday also marks the beginning of the liturgical season of Advent! The four Sundays leading up to Christmas. I’m still learning A2U2 traditions, as this is my first holiday season with you, so I’m not sure if lighting the Advent wreath is a new or perhaps a tradition that has come and gone depending on the minister. This year, in the spirit of embracing change, I invite you to join me and many other UU and Christian congregations into this practice of lighting the wreath. Our first candle of HOPE will be lit on Sunday.

Advent is a season of waiting, of preparation, and of expectation. For Christians, it’s the coming of the birth of Jesus and the divine love that he embodies. For those celebrating Earth-centered traditions, it’s the return of the sun at solstice time and a celebration of the Yuletide. I hope that our time together this holiday season, regardless of what you celebrate, will be one of spiritual deepening and connection to that which you call holy.

I am grateful for each and every one of you.

Stay healthy and travel safe!

With Love,

Rev. Tara