Interdependence as a Value So often, we equate independence to freedom or associate it with strength. While it can be an admirable quality, it has its downfalls. When young people are praised for all of what they can do by themselves, some begin to develop a fixed mindset and base a sense of self-worth on … Continue reading CFD Director’s Message 9.21.22
Minister’s Message We all need a circle of care, a circle of belonging. These words of Starhawk make this claim so beautifully: Somewhere, there are people to whom we can speak with passion without having the words catch in our throats. Somewhere a circle of hands will open to receive us, eyes will light up … Continue reading September 21, 2022
“You hardly knew how hungry you were to be gathered in, to receive the welcome that invited you to enter entirely… You began to breathe again… You learned to sing. But the deal with this blessing is that it will not leave you alone, will not let you linger… this blessing will ask you to … Continue reading CFD Director’s Message 9.14.22
Minister’s Message The Soul Matters theme of the month is “Belonging,” and this beautiful poem by Jan Richardson reminds us that belonging can be a double-edged sword. You hardly knew how hungry you were to be gathered in, to receive the welcome that invited you to enter entirely… You began to breathe again… You learned … Continue reading September 14, 2022
Happy September (the month of Belonging)! I am now easing back into my responsibilities at UUFM, while parenting my new little one, Aedan. I feel grateful to be back and to be in a position that feels like a good balance with the new role of being a first-time mother. I am looking forward to welcoming … Continue reading CFD Director’s Message 9.7.22
Dear Ones, The happy day is upon us! We gather in from our far-flung places and lives to become once more a congregation celebrating our past, present, and future through our traditional Water Communion, as well as a party and picnic designed to welcome all. I look forward to seeing you on September 11 at … Continue reading September 7, 2022
Rev. Rita is out of the office and away from regular Fellowship business from August 27 through September 5. She returns to duties on September 6. If you need assistance, contact Shelly Storm, Communications and Office Administrator at uumankato@gmail.com and 507-388-5022 or Board President Bob Finley at finbob@charter.net and 507-380-1869. Even when Rev. Rita is … Continue reading August 31, 2022
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 … Continue reading August 24, 2022
Dear Ones, Cicadas have always been for me the ultimate sound of summer. I learned recently that the buzz we generally hear is comprised of the mating calls of three different species. A simple and familiar thing more complex than at first thought. Like the end of summer itself—bittersweet that family time and road trips … Continue reading August 17, 2022 Minister’s Message
Dear Ones, In just one month and one day, the 2022-2023 program year begins anew at UUFM. Though COVID lingers, and its effects continue to devastate vulnerable populations and individual families, we begin to return more securely to in-person gatherings. Many of us have reason to feel fortunate in this time, our families spared or … Continue reading August 10, 2022 Minister’s Message
