Greetings church, and happy May!

And a blessed Beltane to those who honor the seasons and cycles of the Earth. Beltane, usually observed on 5/1, marks the beginning of summer… the halfway point between the spring equinox and the summer solstice.

We also recognize workers rights across the world, remembering the labor rights and 8 hour workday movement of the 19th century. Our recognition, this year, falls just one day after the 100 day mark of the new presidential administration in the United States. Our work on behalf of justice, dignity, and basic rights for workers and all people is as important as it has ever been. May our honoring of spring, of the beauty of new life and the regeneration of our Earth, buoy our spirits for the work ahead.

If you’re fired up on this May Day, there is an opportunity for public witness this afternoon! As part of the May Day National Day of Action, there will be a march starting at USM at 3:30pm and ending with a rally at the Portland Museum of Art at about 5pm. Find details here. You can march with the group if you’re able, or just attend the rally, with speakers and music, at 5.

And the action continues. Over the weekend church members and friends will gather at Ferry Beach for the annual Tri-Church retreat with our sibling congregations in Norway and Auburn, a decades long tradition. Thank you organizing team for your hard work putting another great retreat.

On Sunday, we will worship! This week’s service is a deep dive into the words we use to talk about the Divine… where I’ll offer the reminder that “God is Not a Boy’s Name.” How do we talk about that thing beyond words or names that many, though not all, of us find meaningful and sacred? How do we engage in our own individual free and responsible search for truth and meaning in community with people (or even a Minister!) whose theology we don’t agree with?

Come skeptics, some seekers, come marchers and laborers.

Come those rested from a day of retreat. Come you who are still frayed at the edges.

As always, it will be good to be together. Until then, may you be well.

In faith and solidarity,

Rev. Tara

(Image Credit: UU Church of Columbus)