As we continue on the move toward autumn, I wanted to be sure to update you all on some upcoming excitement throughout this Congregational Year.
Adult Religious Education We have two new offerings this year so far, with more to come in the spring.
- First, beginning in October, we will have a series of conversations “Exploring World Religions”. I have organized local clergy and leaders from other faith traditions to come on Sunday afternoons (c. 12:00pm) to share about their traditions and field questions from those gathered. These sessions will take place in Anderson.
- We are also having a series of book reads, also held on Sunday after services in Anderson. There are four of these schedule between November and May. Each book offers challenges and an interesting take on social justice, and how to live in this world. I will be facilitating two of these sessions, and members of the congregation, the other two.
- We have some other community conversations and potential events in the works. If you are interested in helping, or offering other Adult Religious Education options, please be in touch.
Children’s Religious Education
- As you’ve already heard, we hired a new RE coordinator who is getting up to speed on all the things. Melisa is fabulous, and is learning quickly. This year, she’ll be leading classes for our elementary school age kids, and those classes will tie into the themes we are exploring in service upstairs.
- Our youth will be doing a Coming of Age year: an important milestone in the life of UU kids. We are partnering again with CUC, and will likely begin those classes in October. Of course, there will be a service in May celebrating our youth.
Changes to our On-Line and Physical Spaces
- A team has been working on moving forward with a website redesign. We have engaged a professional to help us update and make as intuitive as possible our external internet presence. We are excited to be making this happen!
- A team has been working on shifting around some of the spaces in Reeb to maximize the comfort of groups that meet in there, as well as to improve working conditions for our Beloved Ann. We are paying close attention to making our space welcoming and warm for those who come in.
Board Activities
- The Board has an upcoming retreat to solidify our teamwork approach, and to set some goals for the year. Stay tuned for more information from the Board once that long and dedicated meeting occurs.
- The Board will also be following up on many of the items discussed last year, including a longer term plan for living our faith out in the world and encouraging new folks to experience what we have to offer.
There is much more going on here at USR, and you’ll hear more about all of it from leadership as the weeks go by. Please continue to read your eblasts and watch REALM. And, as always, if you have ideas you want to bring to fruition, be in touch!
With excitement,
Rev. Sarah
