There is something truly prophetic about writing a newsletter column in early January to cover probable events in February. I need to be able to predict what will be happening and the prevailing mood of the congregation.
"Overwhelmed" would probably be the word that best describes the mood of many these days. During this month we will be finishing the work of the Second Service Study Committee, voting on bylaw changes for the ministerial search process. Apparently, the standing church bylaws do not reflect the current recommendations for the ministerial search process according to the Unitarian Universalist Association’s Department of Ministerial Settlement.
During this month I would also like for you to consider committing yourself and your family to attending the 2005 Spring Conference of the Joseph Priestly District (JPD) of the Unitarian Universalist Association on April 8th and 9th. It will be held at the Sheraton Park Ridge in King of Prussia. The conference will be an intergenerational event with programs for children and adults. Workshops at the JPD Conference will include "Breaking through the Growth Barrier—Without Breaking Up," "The Spiritual Life," "Top Ten Suggestions for Your Membership Committee," "Writing and Performing in Creative Community," "Families and Faith Communities," "Regional Social Justice Work," "Funding Your Dream," and "The Eternal Yes Theatre." This conference promises to be both informative and fun. For more information, contact the minister or check out the information on the table in the foyer. The cut-off date for registration (without any late fee) is March 1st.
Renewing affiliation with the Unitarian Universalist Association, renewing denominational linkages, is one of the tasks of the interim ministry process. This is not just for the benefit of the denomination, or even to reconnect in preparation for the ministerial search process, but for the congregation's greater good. Sometimes I have observed that members and committees of the Unitarian Fellowship of West Chester do not know that denominational resources exist to help the congregation through an issue. Sometimes I have observed folks thinking that they had to invent a process when one already exists. Attending the district conference is a way to remedy that. Besides, being in the room with hundreds of Unitarian Universalists from our district gives one perspective and the feeling that we are not isolated.
I hope that you will consider attending the JPD conference. I'm planning to go and would like for a group of us to go together. It promises to be a great event.
See you in church,
Larry |
