Welcome, friends—
Newcomers, old-timers, seekers, skeptics, saints of habit and rebels of the heart.
Here, we gather not because we think the same, but because we choose to journey together.
Belonging is not something given—it is something we build, with open hands and open hearts.
It is made in the sharing of stories, the holding of silences, the courage to show up as we are.
Here, we practice a radical hospitality—not of perfection, but of presence.
May we make this place a shelter for the soul, a workshop for justice,
a sanctuary where love is not merely spoken but lived. Deeply.
again—in trust, in hope, in the spirit of belonging.
(Rev. Dr. David Breeden)
These words by David Breeden, who graced us with his Wolfson Lecture a few years ago, herald the onset of another season of fall and the return to our regular schedule of worship, life-span religious exploration, small groups, and service to the community at large.
To say we are returning might not be accurate for the many people who continued to provide wonderful Summer Services the past few months, or who spent countless hours preparing and repairing our property and buildings, or who continued to serve those in our community who face food insecurity, isolation, and loneliness. We owe a great debt of gratitude for all the labor, compassion, and service of many who continued to be present during our summer sojourns.
Personally, I am incredibly grateful to the members and friends of the congregation who reached out and offered support during two surgical hospitalizations, both of which have been remarkably successful. I look forward to returning to the pulpit on Sept 7, with a new hip and a renewed sense of the power of beloved community. I can’t thank you all enough for the support and encouragement shown to my family and me these past few months.
As we return to the rhythm of the fall season, I am mindful that we continue to face many challenges and uncertainties in our community and world. And while, like you, I can not predict the future, what carries me through this time is the power and potential of that love which is the heart of genuine care for each other, the love that is the center of integrity, authenticity, and the welcome and invitation to join our community as we live into the uncertainty of the future with a bold vision that authentic, compassionate, and just community is not only possible, it is in the making, right here on Shore Drive.
Join us this Sunday for our Annual Fall Return Water Ceremony. Don’t forget to bring a bit of water from your summer sojourn (we’ll also have symbolic water too). I can’t adequately express how excited I am to see you all. So let me just say: Join us! You are most welcome!!
Blessings,
Aaron