“We gather at the edge of something new. Summer’s looseness gives way to rhythm, and rhythm calls us home. Whatever weariness, wonder, or waiting you carry through these doors, you are welcome here. You are seen here. You are needed here. Let us breathe together and open our hearts to all that is waiting. Come, let us begin [again] . . .together.”
– Rev. Michelle Collins
Welcome home again! As we arrive on the cusp of autumn and return to the start of a new program year, we pause to give thanks for a summer of rest and rejuvenation, or perhaps a time of challenge and change. While we sojourned or stayed home, let us be glad for the work that continued through many hands and hearts here at UUCW. We are especially grateful to those who facilitated a full schedule of Summer Sunday Worship services: Vivian Borek, Emily Miller Mlcak, Reina & Nikki Quidon, Mara Pentlarge, Emily Konstan, Dianne Mann & Matthew Johnsen, Jessoe Trowbridge, Rachel & Brian Keyo, the Greendale Ecumenical Group, and our own UUCW Garden-On Team. We are equally grateful for our Garden Team’s steadfast stewardship of the property. Dee Hudson, our Sexton, caring for and tending the property and building. Moira Rouse and our Facilities Team’s work on our physical plant, especially sprucing up the lounge with new windows and paint. Cris Heffernan and Cathy McDonagh are continuing to construct a history wall still in the hallway. Vickie Cox-Lanyon and the Facilities Team ably led another grand All-Church Cleaning project, with help from many members and friends. Our Loaves & Fishes Food Pantry Team continues to serve those in need in our neighborhood; Betty Jenewin diligently documented it all with beautiful photos. Frank Sweetser and our Tech Team continue to rewire the building for steadier internet access and service. And our staff is still hard at work planning for this return to activities and worship.
Also, this fall, we are excited to welcome our new Ministerial Intern, Emily Miller Mlčák, who will be with us for the next two years as she completes her studies at Meadville Lombard Theological School and prepares to meet the UUA Ministerial Fellowship Committee.
There is much to be thankful for here this Summer, and much more to look forward to this fall! Please join us for our Ingathering Service and Water Ceremony this Sunday. Let the excitement begin again!
Blessings,
Aaron