On October 12, 2025, a ceremony was held after service to honor the Rev. Aaron Payson’s 26 years of ministry at UUCW. The Garden-On team will be planting a yellow birch tree in his honor.

Words spoken by Garden-On Team member Melissa McKeon:

The yellow birch is a tree that gives back generously to the world around it. Its bark shelters birds, its seeds feed woodland creatures, and its roots strengthen the soil. In that same spirit, Rev. Payson has given so much to this community — generously offering wisdom, encouragement, and care.

As this tree takes root and begins its long life, it will remind us of the many ways Rev. Payson has helped this church flourish — with devotion, vision, and a heart that always reached beyond himself.

May this yellow birch ground itself deeply while reaching toward the light — just as we, too, ground ourselves in spirit, love, and community.