Matthew’s Memo
Aug 12^th
 
It is hard to believe that this is my second-to-last newsletter column for you.  After writing one most weeks for the last 17 years, it is bizarre to think about stopping.  Of course, I’ll still be writing newsletter columns, now for the MidAmerica Regional Newsletter.  But that is monthly, not weekly.
 
I love to write. I’ve always loved it and find it as a spiritual discipline.  My book, Newborn Bards: A Theology of Preaching for Unitarian Universalists, was described to me by one reviewer as a “reflection on sermon preparation as spiritual practice and theological reflection”, which I love.  Writing a sermon helps me think through life. Writing newsletter columns makes me consider “what is on the mind of the church?”  Writing strategic plans and agendas helps me figure out what the work is.  As I will be writing lots of emails, but fewer sermons and columns, I may get back to practices like journaling to work that muscle.  Who knows, I might start writing poetry or get further than half a page on a novel idea.  We’ll see. 
 
Over the years, my columns have sometimes been about church business, to let you know important things that are happening.  In that vein, I hope you can join the farewell party on Aug 22^nd (be sure to RSVP) and make it on the 24^th.  I remind you that I will not be your minister after Aug 31^st (and, absent an emergency, not after Aug 24^th).  You might see me out and about, but I really will unwind from this role.  I’m thrilled for you that Rev. Bret Lortie will be your interim.  I know Bret well, and his gifts align well with interim work and your needs now.  And I have so much faith and confidence in your staff – Rev. Joyce, Lindsay, Autumn, Tim, and Michelle – as well as your Board and lay leaders.  You’re going to launch into the new, and I’m happy for you. 
 
Sometimes my columns are about spiritual questions.  In that vein, these two weeks are a time for presence and care. You may have many feelings – sorrow, anger, gratitude, wistfulness, excitement, worry, and more.  Me too!  Be attentive to how you feel and know these reactions are normal.  And be present; let us say our farewells and our thanksgivings with care and grace. 
 
And sometimes my columns are about the news. Which continues to be mostly terrible, as the President tries to consolidate power and destroy the functioning of independent government.  The answer is local organizing, voting, and living your life with joy – do not surrender your life to him and his efforts.  And do not give up. 

Sometimes my columns are a mix of all of these, like this one.  There’s a lot to say, and life is woven of many threads.  Change is what is constant, and these threads carry us forward, into the new. 
 
In faith,
Matthew

WCCC

Hi everyone, 

Please join us this Tuesday, 8/12 at 6:30 PM at the Unitarian Church, 4848 Turner. We welcome Jacoba Cruz-Rodriguez, Clinic Director for the Midwest Reproductive Health Care.  Hear how we can support our reproductive health clinic!
Hope to see you there.

Sara Dady, WCCC President

Sacred Reading: An Invitation to Slow, Reflective Spiritual Practice

Wonderful Wednesday

September 3, 6:00 pm

Library

In our fast-paced lives, it’s easy to rush through words without letting them nourish us. Sacred reading—also known as lectio divina or contemplative reading—is a spiritual practice that invites us to slow down, listen deeply, and engage with texts that awaken the heart and spirit. In this session, we’ll explore sacred reading in a Unitarian Universalist context, using selections from poetry, scripture, and wisdom literature.

We’ll experiment with simple methods of reflection and sharing, allowing the text to speak to us and through us. If you like, bring titles of your favorite readings. All are welcome—no prior experience needed.

Unicantors Choir Rehearsal Begins!
Sunday, August 31 at 9:00 am
Sunday, September 7 at 9:00 am

1 in 6 people in America sing in choirs. Singing in groups has been linked to better mental and physical health, a sense of belonging, and feeling connected to others, among many other benefits.

Choir will begin evening rehearsals on Tuesdays, September 9 and 16, at 7:00 pm. 

The choir will rehearse on their regular Thursday night beginning on September 25.

You are invited to join the choir and make something beautiful happen for yourself and the congregation!

Questions, see Tim Anderson, Music Director, or any member of the choir.

Sunday Morning Meditation
1st and 3rd Sundays 
9:15 in the Library

The next session is August 17th.

We meet to meditate together and center ourselves for the day. Please join us for Sunday Morning Meditation. 

• Our deep roots connect us to a wealth of resources that nourish our growth as a beacon for justice, inclusion, and liberation, especially anti-racism and gender and sexuality justice. 
• Our listening cultivates diverse and multicultural relationships that bridge divisions, strengthen our communities, heal hearts, and foster safety for all. 
• Our awareness of our interdependence inspires us to protect the shared environment and natural world in which we live.

The Unitarian Universalist Church, Rockford, IL  |   4848 Turner St., Rockford, IL 61107   |   815-398-6322    |   uurockford.org  |