From Kathy Underwood, DLRE – January 2020

We have reached an interesting period here at UCE as well as in our country and in time. 2020 is the start of a new decade with its promises and hopes. If you believe in numerology, when adding the digits in the year 2020, you get 4, which represents order, responsibility, stability, family, home, manifestation, conservation, peace, physical reality, and practical solutions. It is the number of work — of getting it done. You are being asked in 2020 to be fully invested in creating a foundation for long-lasting success, security, and grounding by building something of value that stands the test of time, according to Numerology.com. And if you’re into astrology, it marks the ending of three major planetary cycles of Saturn, Pluto & Jupiter.

Is it a coincidence then that here at UCE we are in a transition that is calling us to “work and getting it done”? To do the work of building a strong foundation – both in our physical structure and infrastructure – that will carry the load of the work we want to do in the community and the greater world of which we are a part? Whether or not you believe in coincidences, the fact is that we are at an important junction. And beyond our walls, we are at a critical junction: equality for all, the environment, and democracy itself are all facing challenges.

As we move into this unique and exciting period, we need to continue sharing our stories of our experiences at UCE and our dreams for UCE. How has our history formed our identity? What do we need to create our future with a new minister? What resources, tangible and intangible, do we have? Does our foundation and infrastructure support the work we feel called to do?

And so you are encouraged and invited to participate in the conversation as it relates to our lifespan religious education program on February 15 with Rev. Karen, Rev. Eileen, and I. We will explore questions such as, “How might we create more opportunities to grow our young people’s UU identity? How might we include our youngest in UCE life?” We will gather for a continental breakfast at 8:30 and begin at 9 am. Lunch and a children’s program will be provided. Our hope is that all parents and other interested adults participate in this important conversation. A special invite will be sent out separately where you can sign up so we can plan for food and childcare accordingly.

Let 2020 be a year full of good work and building the foundation needed to make our vision come to fruition!

In Faith,

Kathy