Interim Reflections
“If as Herod, we fill our lives with things and again
things;
If we consider ourselves so important that we must fill
every moment of our lives with action;
When will we have the time to make the long slow journey
across the burning desert as did the Magi;
Or sit and watch the stars as did the shepherds;
Or brood over the coming of the child as did Mary?
For each of us there is a desert to travel, a star to
discover, and a being within ourselves to bring to life.”
I share Edward Ericson’s words, that they might be of some use to you, as we enter this season of celebration and (unfortunately) pseudo-celebration. Through the years, my spiritual quest at this time of year has meant connecting with the symbols of the time to ask in a multitude of ways;
º What is the nature of my burning desert?
º Which is the star that I must discover?
º What is this being within myself that I want to bring to life?
º How can my ways become increasingly life-enhancing, and less life-denying?
Attention to these questions can allow this time of year to become a time of deepening creativity and value.
Sometimes during these winter holidays, issues of the Spirit continue to insist upon themselves, or (as I have suggested in my questions above) invite themselves into our consciousness. When this happens, it can be good to have some support to help guide your way through fear or confusion that may sometimes occur. I do not offer psychological counseling, though I have on occasion found myself helping someone decide whether or not such counseling would be of help. I do offer deep listening and reflecting to help you determine your own way.
I sometimes schedule these meetings during my office hours, or at other times during the week by appointment. Or, depending on the nature of your concerns and the state of the weather, we may share a “walk and talk”. I have found that walking can move one’s thoughts in more creative ways sometimes, and am happy to share a walk. Give me a call if this is for you.
May you find moments of peace and deep joy during this holiday season and through the year ahead.
Faithfully,
Reverend Sue Turner, Interim Minister
article submitted by Sue Holden
The Membership Committee has planned a new one-day class called "Path to Membership." For those who recall our "UU 101" and "UU 102", Path to membership replaces these classes as the requirement for membership.
It will be held Saturday, January 17, 10 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. and include a light lunch.
Our next New member Sunday will be February 1. Rev. Sue Turner, membership committee members and leaders from the church will all welcome you and present information about the Unitarian Universalist Association and UUMAN.
We
will offer this new class three times a year: January, May
and September. If you've been thinking about becoming a member, please
plan to
attend. Sign up at the Membership table in Fellowship Hall, e-mail 
or
call Sue Holden at 770-886-5306. Child care will be provided if you
notify us in advance that you need this service.
December 7, 2008
Peace/or joy? - Sue Turner (Worship Associate: Sue Bell)
With singing and stories we will receive gifts from our Unitarian Universalist ancestors, and put them on the tree, or in our hearts.
Singing Christmas Tree - Cliff Brown (Worship Associate: Mirriam Bellamy)
UUMAN Christmas Eve Services, December 24, 2008
5:00 pm
Come and enjoy the celebration with
our children and youth as they present the annual Christmas Pageant.
8:00 pm Christmas Eve Candlelight Service: A Celebration of Christmas
During this annual candlelight service, we will light the candles, hear the old familiar story and enjoy the music of the holiday.
December 28, 2008
525,600 Minutes, How Do We Measure a Year? - Jennifer Elliott
It's the end of the year. It's been a year of many events, milestones, and little things. What should we carry forward with us into the new year? What should we leave behind? And, how do we really measure a year in the life...?
