Beloved A2U2 community,

I hope this finds you healthy and well! Speaking of healthy… flu and cold season is on its way. I recently got my COVID booster and flu shot and I am grateful to have that extra level of protection. Masks continue to be optional at church, but I encourage you to wear one if it makes you more comfortable or if you have the sniffles.

As always, it was so good to be with you on Sunday in person and over Zoom. I’m so grateful for your openness to our challenging topic of atonement and repair. I was enriched by the conversations I had with many after worship and always love to hear what’s moving and shifting in your hearts and spirits. Thank you for your vulnerability and resilience. A courageous bunch, you are.

I am excited for this Sunday to come, as well! Tuesday was National Coming Out Day. In worship this week, our DRE, Emily, and I will lead together an all-ages service in celebration of National Coming Out Day and reflect on queerness, love, justice, becoming, and joy. I’m also going to share some of my favorite LGBTQIA+ focused / authored books with you during coffee hour. So I hope you’ll stay, browse, and share your favorites with me as well!

May you know that all of who you are is whole, holy and loved. And remember that I am here if you ever want or need a confidential listening ear. Connecting with you is the best part of my job.

In faith and pride,
Rev. Tara