Author: Shelly Storm

November 1, 2023 Minister’s Message

Sometimes, the troubles of the outer world collide with those in our individual lives, and it all feels like too much.

This past week has been a little like that for me. My heart was broken by the war in Israel and Palestine, and then by … read more.

October 25, 2023 Minister’s Message

Last week, I had the deep privilege of participating in a Civil Rights pilgrimage to Memphis and Mississippi through the Living Legacy Project. It was truly a pilgrimage, not a tour. We were there not as tourists but as witnesses and students. We did visit … read more.

CFD Director’s Message 10.25.23

“We are a collage—a remix—of our ancestors. We have spiritual DNA, as well as physical, and our lot in life is to answer the questions posed by the people who came before us.” Austin Kleon

As we conclude the month of heritage, … read more.

CFD Director’s Message 10.18.23

In place of a reflection this week, I would like to share a song. Each time I have been reflecting on this month’s theme, Heritage, this song comes to mind. It is one of my favorites by one of my favorite bands. Please … read more.

October 11, 2023 Minister’s Message

It has been a very full last few days, with traumatic headlines, stories, and imagery from Israel and Palestine on top of the existing stresses within our country, in the war in Ukraine, and more. I want to explicitly invite you to reach out to me … read more.

CFD Director’s Message 10.11.23

“Each morning we awaken to the light and the invitation to a new day in the world of time; each night we surrender to the dark to be taken to play in the world of dreams where time is no more. At birth we were … read more.

CFD Director’s Message 10.4.23

“Walking, I can almost hear the redwoods beating. And the oceans are above me here, rolling clouds, heavy and dark. It is winter and there is smoke from the fires. It is a world of elemental attention, of all things working together, listening to what … read more.

October 4, 2023 Minister’s Message

I am writing this column late Tuesday night in my room at the Prairiewoods Franciscan Spirituality Center in Hiawatha, Iowa, where I am gathered with other Unitarian Universalist ministers and seminary students. We, the members of the Prairie Star Chapter of the Unitarian Universalist Ministers … read more.

CFD Director’s Message 9.27.23

As we conclude our theme of Welcome, may these words from Valarie Kaur remind us of what welcome might mean for some: “I was beginning to learn that home is the space within us and between us where we feel safe—and brave. It … read more.