Read this week’s newsletter here: The Weekly Liberal June 25

A note from Rev. Jen Crow:

This Sunday, we prepare to say goodbye to Rev. Ruth as she retires from First Universalist. I hope you’ll join us in worship as we mark this significant transition in the life of our church. As with any transition, there are griefs and gratitudes, sadness and a preparation of the heart for the new, yet unknown future that will unfold. We need each other as we mark and move through the multiple transitions that are happening for so many of us. And we need to celebrate, too. I hope you’ll swing by the church steps by bike, on foot, or in a car – wearing a mask and socially distanced – if you are able this Sunday between 11:30 a.m. and 1 p.m. and give Ruth a wave and an air high five as she embarks on this new adventure with all of our love. 

Ruth has been a significant part of our ministry and leadership team at church, and with her retirement we’ll be shifting responsibilities to other team members. Going forward, Rev. Justin will lead our worship team – coordinating the work of our musicians, staff, lay leaders and ministers – as we continue in Ruth’s teachings creating engaging, relevant, and multifaceted worship services together. Over the summer, Rev. Karen will lead our ministry of pastoral care. If you or someone you know is experiencing a life transition, a crisis, or are simply in need of a little support and a listening ear – please reach out to Rev. Karen or any of our ministers or staff. We’re in this life together and we need one another more than ever. 

I will be taking some time for vacation and study leave in the month of July, and will be away from the church from Monday, June 29 through Sunday, Aug. 2. I’ll continue to manage the building project, but otherwise all questions and concerns can be directed to Rev. Justin or any member of the staff leadership team (Arif, Lauren, Jenn Stromberg, Rev. Karen) while I am away. 

And speaking of the building project – things are happening over at the church building! Asbestos and lead abatement have been completed and demolition has begun on the interior of the Religious Education wing. We’re making space for:

• reconfigured rooms that better meet our needs
• new, more efficient heating and cooling and technology systems
• gender-neutral bathrooms that welcome everyone
• a multi-use room that has everything a family could need for an extended stay
• a new Cummins Room complete with its own accessible restroom and improved technology that can serve our whole community
• and a new accessible central entrance at the atrium

As the project proceeds, there will be opportunities for you to be a part of the renovations. In August, we’ll be hosting two painting weekends where we’ll be responsible for painting the new rooms in the education wing. After construction of the accessible ramp outside, we’ll be asking for help with landscaping. And all along the way, we’ll be sharing pictures so that everyone can see the transformation that is happening. 

Exciting changes are afoot – and as with any change, let’s take the time to mark what is ending so that we can share our gratitude for what was and turn and face the new beginnings with wide open hearts. 

In gratitude,
Rev. Jen