“I bring hope and an open heart... grief... presence... expanding love... patience... thoughtfulness... kindness... hard work... tears and deep gratitude... excitement... hope and optimism... deep compassion... stories... appreciation... faith in this community... a joyful willingness to commune and participate.”
Despite everything in the news (which is how I may have to introduce my reflection every week), there are some ways in which it feels like an auspicious start to the year at North Parish. First, we had a beautiful Ingathering service and start to programming for children and youth on Sunday; many thanks to all who prepared and participated, to those who sang, to those who brought water, shells or stones and wrote what they are bringing to… or seeking from… our community.
Second, our 1806 Paul Revere bell was put back in place on Wednesday, just in time for Fred and Kim to ring it at the appropriate times on Thursday Sept. 11th, the 24th anniversary of 9/11/2001. I am always at Fire Station II on that morning (since I am one of the Fire Chaplains and offer a meditation/prayer) and it is always meaningful to hear the Revere bell ring during the town’s Remembrance Ceremony.
Third, we are hosting the President of the Unitarian Universalist Association in our pulpit this Sunday. My sincere hope is that we can offer her and her colleague Rev. Lauren an experience of welcome, sanctuary, hope and love- even as they co-lead the service. Advance gratitude for their work to make that possible goes out to John, Christina, members of the Choir, and our soloist Sam (who is also the composer of our offertory piece.) As I noted last Sunday, Dr. Betancourt lives in Baltimore where folks are bracing for the possible arrival of the National Guard and there has been a surge in local law enforcement. Close by is Washington D.C. where the thirty day “public emergency” federal takeover of the city’s police department has just ended, but where there is continued presence of over 2,000 national guard troops and immigration enforcement officers (ICE). This week, there was a pronounced ICE presence in Lawrence as well, and as we know, high tensions across the country.
When invited to share what you seek at North Parish, one of you wrote on Sunday, “I seek calm from the storm of this country.” Amen to that! Others wrote, “I seek support, love and the safety of this community.” “I seek comfort after loss.” “I seek connection with other families.” “I seek community, as we are always stronger together.” “I seek fortitude.” “I seek community hope.” “I seek spiritual connection and grounding.” “I seek friends and inspiration.” “I seek a sense of community and belonging.” “I seek unity.” It’s a good week to invite a friend to service; maybe they are seeking too.
I am so grateful for each one of you and all that you bring, and all that you seek. We are in this together and despite it all, beauty and life abounds.
Rev. Lee