Thanks for A Reminder of What’s Possible

News –

A message from Dr. Glen Thomas, Director of Worship Arts Ministries

On Saturday night, over 300 people filled our sanctuary—some for the first time, some longtime members returning home—drawn by music, wonder, and shared experience. Peter Mayer, JD Stillwater, and Ann Stillwater wove together song and reflection, science and spirit, inviting us to stand in awe of both the vastness of the universe and the intimacy of human connection. They reminded us that we are stardust and soil, fleeting and infinite, held in the grand arc of time and in the smallest, most ordinary moments of being alive.

This night came to life through the dedication, generosity, and hard work of my colleagues and our incredible volunteers and leaders. To Rachel, whose steady leadership carried this event from vision to reality—I am so grateful. To Ashley and all my First U colleagues, who gave their time, skill, and thoughtfulness to ensure every detail was held with care, I see your work and I’m grateful. To the Stewardship Team, who supported the event with wisdom and heart, and to those who greeted, ushered, managed tickets, hosted online, and kept everything flowing, you ensured that every person who walked through our doors felt truly welcomed. I deeply appreciate what you gave to make this night what it was.

And to Peter, JD, and Ann, my deepest thanks. You offered us something far greater than a performance. You opened a way of seeing—through the vastness of creation, through the patterns of galaxies and the fragile beauty of this life. You invited us to hold paradox—to stand between knowing and mystery, between the infinite and the immediate. Your gifts landed here, in this space, and in the hearts of this community.

And what a result. Over $10,000 was raised to support the work of this church, ensuring we continue to be a home for transformation, justice, and love. But the real impact of the evening wasn’t measured in numbers. This is what I imagine for the near future of our community. A church alive with art, music, and spirit. A place where we gather—not for ourselves alone, but for each other. A place where beauty is honored, where inspiration is shared freely, where doors open wider to welcome neighbors and seekers, all of us searching for something meaningful, something real.

This is what happens when we bring our best selves forward, when we create something larger than ourselves, when we trust that the work of love, connection, and hope matters in ways we can’t always measure. 

In peace,
Glen Thomas