“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 awakened and emerged to become visible in the world. At … Continue reading CFD Director’s Message 10.11.23
“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 speaks in the blood. Whichever road I follow, I walk … Continue reading CFD Director’s Message 10.4.23
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 Association, meet here for three days each fall. Our time … Continue reading October 4, 2023 Minister’s Message
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 is not a physical space as much as it is a field … Continue reading CFD Director’s Message 9.27.23
As the tree outside my home office window is announcing in this picture, fall has arrived. Saturday was the autumnal equinox. This is not just a calendar date for me or an official change in seasons, but a shift in my inner and other worlds. The outer is obvious: leaves turning brilliant red, orange, and … Continue reading September 27, 2023 Minister’s Message
I completed a Teacher Training Renaissance Module through the UUA just yesterday and picked up this quote through some of my required reading. I thought it spoke beautifully about exactly how Unitarian Universalists hold one another in community: “The opposite of a correct statement is a false statement. But the opposite of a profound truth … Continue reading CFD Director’s Message 9.20.23
September 2nd Collection: Support of Mahkato Wacipi (Mankato Pow Wow) Our UUFM Land Acknowledgement states: “The Dakota peoples were stewards of the land on which our Fellowship meets… This congregation commits to an ongoing and intentional journey of lovingly humble connection with Indigenous peoples, characterized by understanding our shared history, accepting responsibility for restoration, and building relationship … Continue reading 2nd Collection for September 2023
Our theme for September is “Welcome,” and I experienced that in so many ways this past weekend! I was warmly welcomed by clergy of other faiths as we led worship together Saturday morning before the Pride parade and festival. My role in the service was to lead a “glitter blessing” with two other out queer … Continue reading September 13, 2023 Minister’s Message
“When we rush, we skim the surface, and fail to make real connections with the world or other people.” – Carl Honoré This past week, I was able to spend a nice stretch of day at Drew’s family’s cabin, and one of my favorite things to do with my one-year-old ended up being agate hunting. … Continue reading CFD Director’s Message 9.13.23
This weekend has two big events I look forward to celebrating with you: Pridefest on Saturday, and our ingathering service on Sunday! On Saturday morning, there will be a multi-faith celebratory Pride worship service hosted at First Presbyterian Church, before the parade and festival. I’ve been on the planning team for that service and will … Continue reading September 6, 2023 Minister’s Message
