I am preparing for the new program year, even as I am relishing these last few weeks before we begin again in love. And “relish” is just the right word, for this season holds much to delight the eye and the palate. Saturday morning Farmers’ Market is a feast (and not only for the friends you will undoubtedly encounter there!). I am particularly enjoying corn and tomatoes and green beans and kale (who can get enough of kale, some of us will say, and you know how you are!). To say nothing of onions and cucumbers and mushrooms and potatoes. And more that I am leaving out but surely your market bag does not. And our own UUFM Farm Stand gives us a bounty too, and organic as well, lovingly tended by the Rossow Strasser and Ganske families, with help from Mae Gagnon.

The earth yields its gifts to us, and especially well when tended with love and respect. May you enjoy this beautiful bounty as the summer winds to fall once more, as you also remember, today and every day, that you are loved, you are worthy, you are welcome, and you are needed. May you feel it so, and may it be so.

Blessings, Rev. Rita
minister.uumankato@gmail.com