From Rev. Susan Frances 10-25-2024

Dear Friends, 

 I, along with so many of you, am holding anxiety about the November 5th election in my body, my mind, and my spirit. Three practices that are helping me reduce my anxiety are: 

• Spend time with family and friends. I am making time to talk and laugh with folks I know hold values similar to my own about our vision for the future of our country, our state, and our local communities.  

• Be active in get-out-the-vote initiatives and values based conversations. I am also making time to do what I can to talk with folks who may not hold values similar to mine about the value of voting and about the importance of our democracy. Even with the flaws of our political system, this year it is important to talk with folks who you may usually never discuss politics with about the importance of voting for candidates who will support the foundations of our democracy and work to improve upon them. 

• Prayer or Quiet Reflection. Prayer, for me, is often about working through my thoughts, recognizing my concerns, and making time to acknowledge that for which I am grateful. You don’t have to call it prayer in order to make time to sit or walk quietly by yourself and reflect on your life and what is happening around you.  

 As the election approaches, we need to continue supporting each other. I will be holding space at UCE on November 5th and 6th for us to gather together as we wait. Wait for votes to be cast, wait for votes to be counted, and wait for the threatened challenges to our legitimate election processes to be addressed. I invite you to join me at one or all of these times: 

 Nov. 5, 8-9 am, sanctuary  

Nov. 5, 1-2 pm, sanctuary  

Nov. 6, 1-2 pm, room 3 and zoom

Nov. 6, 6-7 pm, room 3 and zoom 

 In this moment in our country’s history, it is time to participate to the fullest extent you are able in our electoral process. As you do this, it is also important to be getting enough sleep, staying connected with others, and noticing if you are not doing well and need some additional support. Please reach out to me, Rev. Eileen, or Rev. Elizabeth if you are overwhelmed and need a pastoral conversation. We are all in this together! 

 Yours, 

Rev. Susan