A2U2 Community,

How are you holding up?

Yeah… same here. It’s hard times right now. And there’s a lot of ugliness out there. And the sun shone today and I heard birdsong. There’s a lot of beauty, too.

I heard wonderful things about this past Sunday’s service with Rev. Norm (and the Valentine’s potluck, too) and I was warmly welcomed by our friends over at First Parish. Everyone seemed excited about the possibilities of deepening our connections and collaborations as Portland Unitarian Universalists, which brings me such hope. We need one another in these times and we are most certainly stronger together.

I can’t wait to see you this Sunday in our own Sanctuary (and on Zoom!) for our all-ages service in celebration of what we each contribute to our beloved A2U2 community and the launch of this year’s stewardship campaign. We’ll also welcome a group of new members into the fold here at church!

There is something powerful about this season where we make a commitment of membership and financial support to our spiritual home. A commitment of talent and time, too. You come here and support this place not because you have to but because you get to… and because of your presence, we are whole. I’ve filled out my pledge form already, and hope upon receiving yours you will too!

In addition to a new member ceremony and a special children’s story I wrote just for this service, we’ll also engage in a special community ritual using a gorgeous loom borrowed from our friends at Hope Gateway. You won’t want to miss it!

Next week, on Wednesday 3/5 at 6pm, all are invited to join me for a grief circle in room 7/9 for us to share the grief we’re holding together, whether personal struggles or related to our nation and world.

I am sending you peace in the storm, dear ones. See you in church.

In faith,

Rev. Tara