August 26, 2024

Something For the Moment

Something for the Journey
from Leslie Takahashi, President UUMA Board of Trustees

Here it is again. The Fall. Despite the fact that many of us operate year-round, it seems as if the Fall is a time with particular demands. This year we enter (once again) into a time when we are offering our leadership and our care to people facing enhanced anxiety.
 
The news offers regular commentary on the divided state of our nation, even sometimes noting the divisions among the progressive community. Yet too often we don’t have ways to discuss the different life views and passions among us under the large tent of Unitarian Universalism. This week as many are celebrating a surge of renewed possibility, others are stunned that issues critical to them, such the US role in Gaza, are not addressed. Some are holding both. Few of us think this particular Fall will be easy or peaceful.
 
So how do we support one another as colleagues? This is a question that bears reflecting. Perhaps we can begin by remembering that all are not in the same space. Perhaps we can be willing to be present to multiple truths. Perhaps the renewed sense of energy can power us through the disappointments ahead. Perhaps those feeling more confident will be willing to look at issues that felt too huge to approach before. Perhaps we can engage one another remembering that those closest to these issues deserve space and respect.
 
In all our forms of ministry and all our configurations of collegiality, may we hold one with an awareness of how much we need one another. And as always, if you have ideas of what you want from your UUMA, email us at board@uuma.org. May the peace and joy present in this Fall season be yours. 

Something Extra

National Fall Conference of Mosaic: Fostering Belonging and Liberation!: Mosaic is a hub of connection, resources, and support for Unitarian Universalists dismantling racism and oppression. This multigenerational National Fall Conference is a dynamic, multi-platform gathering for congregational teams and individuals engaged in the work of building multicultural communities. Running from October 17-20 this event will bring together congregational leaders dedicated to building multicultural communities with love at their center. Registration is open! Find more information and register here.

Something for Formation

MFN Formation Conversation: Starting A New Year 

Wednesday, September 4, 2024 at 4-5:30pm PT/ 5-6:30pm MT/ 6-7:30pm CT/ 7-8:30pm ET

To kick off another academic year, the Ministerial Formation Network will host a time of connection and conversation on the theme of “Starting a New Year” with the Rev. Beth Monhollen, on September 4, 7pm ET/6pm CT/5 pm MT/4pm PT. Beth’s path to ministry includes time as a student advisor and higher ed administrator who navigated a path to UU leadership, discerning through parish and chaplaincy opportunities along the way. Now settled as the minister at UU Church of Urbana-Champaign since 2023, Beth is a graduate of Meadville Lombard. New and returning candidate and aspirant members will have the chance to learn about Discernment Groups and begin to apply for 1:1 vocational advisor at the end of the session.