Dear Church,

It has been what I call a week… There’s a whole lot of the world’s heaviness to hold at the moment and a very busy community to keep up with! So I’ll keep my message short. 

This Sunday is the second of a two-part worship series entitled “The Prophets’ Journey.” My message, “Tears at the Heart of Things,” will explore the inner journey from anger and judgement through tears to a deeper, more authentic presence and connection with the world’s suffering and joy.

Our children and youth will engage in their annual chaotic and wonderful session Building the Beloved Community Fort. They will think concretely about how we create communities of welcome and sanctuary. Our need for such values has been made crystal clear this week as we hear reports that ICE and other federal agents will arrive in Maine this week to try and take away our neighbors. Please remember that there are many resources to support us in engaging in prophetic resistance. I recommend starting here. And we will continue equipping our children and each other to rise to the call of these times regardless of what happens in the wider world. 

LGBTQIA+ folks are invited to stay after worship for our monthly Queer Community Conversations gathering at 11:30 in the Gathering room and on Zoom (more info in the Friday EBlast!). And at 2pm I invite you to join me for the 3rd annual multifaith MLK celebration at First Congregational Church in South Portland: Songs and Courage for Our Times featuring the Sea Change Chorale. 

I hold each of you in my heart these tender days where so much is at stake. To move through the world part of a community that holds justice and love at the center is nothing short of a blessing. 

May you and your neighbors stay safe and sound in the days and nights to come. And I look forward to being together soon.  

In faith,

Rev. Tara