Something for the Journey
from Rev. Michelle Favreault, MFN Program Manager
At each of the Ministerial Formation Network retreats, I invite participants to share a “song of comfort or inspiration.” I love that this practice introduces me to new music, reminds me of beloved songs, and helps US to create a container – both intimate and expansive – that offers community care. When we listen with one another, we have the opportunity to learn “this is what I mean when I say” comfort. Or “these notes hold my broken heart, and there are no words.”
Music is liturgical form, embodied resonance, a collective expression of hope, healing, resistance and change. And music is a form of communication that might offer some insight into our generational similarities…and differences. As Thanksgiving/grieving approaches, I know my family will tune into the Alice’s Restaurant Masacree and tell the story of that time when my dad (really!) had to go and pick up the garbage in my hometown of Sterling, Massachusetts. And we will sing along as tradition dictates. Memory stirred, we’ll reinforce our bonds of connection.
As the MFN gathers to explore our Theologies of Calling this weekend, I pause to think of our UUMA soundtrack. Singing “though you’ve broken your vows a thousand times” and “what they dreamed be ours to do” in places far and near. Reminded of my calling and our shared commitments. And I wonder, what are the songs that comfort and inspire you today? What tunes accompany your memories at the time of your formation? Let’s listen together and sing out praises for the journey.
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