“The greatness of a community is most accurately measured by the compassionate actions of its members.”
– Coretta Scott King
I feel so fortunate to be a part of a community of deep care here in Mankato and at the UUFM. As we conclude the month of Beloved Community, let us remember the importance of compassionate action. How do we continue to reach one another and build community during this pandemic? This question has pulled me in many directions throughout the last year. Sometimes, that has meant picking up the phone, writing a card, assembling goodie bags, or simply practicing presence, listening to one another’s joys and sorrows. Francis Weller states that as mature people, our work is to hold grief in one hand and gratitude in the other, and to be stretched large by them. Let us remember that while there is much action needed, holding space is an action, too – an action that stretches us and makes our hearts grow more tender. I pray that when you do not have the capacity to hold space, that you find compassion for yourself and that you receive that kind of care from our community, too. Let us lean into our grief and feel much gratitude in life, too.
Please know that I am just an email or a phone call away. While I am no longer holding virtual “office hours”, you can reach me on my personal phone at 507-995-7929 or by email at cfddirector@uumankato.org . If I do not answer, I encourage you to send a text or leave a voicemail. Currently, I am available for daytime meetings on Mondays, Wednesdays, Saturdays, and Sundays. I also do have availability most other weekday evenings. I will continue to do my best to serve as a resource to our community, through connecting you to one another and of course, directly. Being a light in the lives of others is as important as ever, and I hope you will stay connected.
Macey Forsyth
Please consider joining our private Facebook group: UUFM Children’s Faith Development (https://www.facebook.com/groups/1404655806251029/). This group is intended for families and congregants who are involved in Children’s Faith Development. My approval of new members’ access to the information there is what makes the group a safe space for sharing. I will be sharing our weekly stories as Facebook videos on my personal page publicly and sharing them in the group, as well as short prayers and meditations.
Link to the stories: Our virtual Stories for All Ages are now available on the UUFM YouTube Channel. At least one new story will be available by Sunday, each week.
https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCNwWkbABO6HpDlw5Po2TdQA?view_as=subscriber
Youth Group: Our Youth Group meets next Wednesday, March 3rd, from 6:30-8pm. We will begin the month of Commitment, with discussion, games, and some planning. As always, Zoom info will be emailed and posted to our private Facebook group.
Virtual Children’s Chapel: Our next Children’s Chapel will be held next Sunday, February 28th from 11:30am-12:30pm. Danielle and Macey are facilitating. Our monthly theme this February is Beloved Community! As always, Zoom info will be emailed and posted to our private Facebook group.