January 3, 2020

Dear ones,

A new year begins, as always, in the midst of so much already begun. I am so looking forward to our time together in January. It feels as though you as a congregation have made some significant strides through the “neutral zone of your ministerial transition.

I have so enjoyed hearing some of your stories and supporting your interactions among your selves as you have worked to integrate the lessons of UCE past into the wholeness of the future.

I have delighted in the openness with which you have discussed UCE organizational structure and envisioned ways to make your work inside the church and out in the world more efficient and accessible and inclusive.

I have been touched by your desire to live more fully into your covenant of engagement.

Everyone can become more involved and engaged in clarifying and defining the mission and vision of UCE that will provide an invitation for your next settled minister.

This month we will be offering opportunities to discuss and deepen your connection to your Mission Statement, “ Nurturing the Human Spirit for a World Made Whole.”

In our Brown Bag Conversations (see schedule) and in committee meetings and one-on-one conversations and during coffee hour you will be encouraged to think and speak about what that statement means to you personally and what it looks like when it is promoted and shared among others in the life of UCE. You can call or e-mail me at  kgustafson@ucevanston.org with your thoughts and ideas. You can invite me or a member of the Transition Team (see interim page on UCE website) to come to your group or activity to lead a discussion. This your chance to create 2020 Vision for UCE!

Also, watch for “Ten Things You Can Do to Be Involved in the Interim.”

Happy new year, indeed!

Karen