A joyful part of ministry is talking with visitors and new participants in the congregation and hearing their impressions of what they have found in this place so many of us hold dear. It can be in a short conversation during coffee time after Sunday service, or in a class or gathering, or in a meeting in my office.
I hear of how people love the music that we include in our worship, that their hearts and souls are lifted up by the beauty of the songs and the talent of our musicians. YES! That is a blessing!
I hear that they like the sermon messages (and that makes me very happy!) and that they find they get something out of the readings and worship elements we carefully have prepared to make the worship service flow. YES! Those are blessings!
They tell me that our rituals of lighting a chalice and candles are meaningful, as a way to help them feel like they are included and accepted into the community. I know that we want new people to feel comfortable and welcomed at First. We hope that we are doing all we can to invite their participation and encourage them to get involved. It seems like the message gets across! YES! That’s a blessing!
And, let’s not forget the newcomer’s socials once a month! New folks tell me that having the chance to meet others, enjoy a bite to eat, and ask questions really helps them find ways to feel a part of the church. YES! That’s a blessing!
So, first, let me give thanks and thank all of you who have contributed to making First Unitarian Hamilton a place where people feel seen, embraced, wanted, and loved. Thank you for your talents and your treasures that have created and sustained this church community. Thank you for getting involved, speaking up, and making “church” happen. Thank you for making changes and embracing the new and keeping our faith relevant and present in the world.
And then, let me tell you that churches serve many needs, but one of the most important is creating a place for people to belong, to feel seen and known, and to know that their showing up is not only good for them, but important to others, as well. Even the most introverted of the introverted want to be seen and acknowledged – in their own introverted way! (It’s all right if you quickly sneak out the front doors when the service is over, until you are comfortable enough here to stay for just one cup of coffee – or tea!)
In a world that can seem isolating and overwhelming, it is good to have a place to BE for awhile every week. It is refreshing and renewing to come to a place where your body, mind, and spirit are encouraged to be together, with other people, and to share an experience that reminds you of your better self, the hope that is alive in the world, and your importance and relevance in all that happens around us, with us, to us.
Church (like life) isn’t always easy. There are tasks to be done and chores that need our attention. We must raise money to pay the bills, organize people to run our programs, and put in the time and effort it takes to make it all work. And yet, the rewards are so apparent on Sunday mornings! When I look out from the pulpit and see your face, I’m glad to be at church. When I hear our voices joined together in song, I’m glad to be at church. When someone finds that a sermon or reading or piece of music spoke directly to them and what they needed to hear right in that moment, I’m glad that I am at church. I hope you are glad to be there, too.
Love and Light, Victoria
NOTE: I will be off work from February 26 through March 16, recovering from surgery. If you need pastoral support during that time, please contact one of our lay chaplains or a member of the Board. They will be able to refer you to the best resource. Thanks for your supportive wishes for my recovery!