It’s Your Timeline!

A few weeks ago, I posted a blank timeline on the bulletin board in Deale Hall. It’s part of our first phase of interim work, where we revisit our history and tell the story of this church. Although I also posted instructions, the big sheet of paper has remained empty except for my very questionable artwork. (Save the little goldfish, which makes me happy.) Over the next month, you are invited to add to the currently sparse timeline. Write a memory, attach a sticky note, tack up an old (or new) photo. It could be just your name and when you arrived. It could be the retelling of a favorite church story everyone should hear, such as newbies like me, printed out on letter-sized paper. This church has a story worth telling, and this is your chance.  

For the couple of dozen folks who attended the startup workshop last month, they’re aware of how powerful it can be to remember and reflect on our history. That evening, a story of resilience, engagement, and passion emerged. You talked about accomplishments, proud moments, and amazing outreach to your community. Even as you talked through past challenges, you learned about the care with which you engaged conflict and the love you share for UU Rockford. Sometimes, you learned, difficult conversations could have been engaged more directly or quickly. Other times, you learned the power within your long-term relationships and your acceptance that ministers are human beings with unique personalities, strengths, and weaknesses. This is vital to strong, long-term ministries. One thing in particular stood out to me when someone expressed the idea: “We’re too strong to let conflict or challenge break us.” Indeed, you are! 

And underneath every human person, institution, and endeavor is fragility and vulnerability. Our timeline is a place to explore all of your past: Where you’ve soared. Where you stumbled. Where you are rooted in particular strengths? Where there are patterns to notice as you envision a new relationship with a new minister, and a new chapter for yourselves. 

Rev. Bret Lortie

Friends,

At this time of year, we are all called to reflect on our lives and give thanks. 

I am grateful for close friends and family, of course. But I am also very grateful for you, my church family. 

Our church family is strong and resilient. We each bring our unique gifts to this special community. This gives me hope for our shared future.

In faith,
Wendy Bennett 

Sunday 11.30.25, following the church service.
We need 5 or 6 volunteers this Sunday
1. Remove the triptych panels and relocate them to storage.
2. Hang the wreaths. Above the entry doors, on the organ, and the main wall of the Sanctuary.
3. Bring the tree into the sanctuary and put it up in the new stand. The original stand will also be available if the new stand does not seem to be sufficient.
4. Tree lighting: At the helpers discretion and time availability. Lights and tree skirt will be in the Sanctuary on Sunday 11.30.25.

D.J. Schubert. U.U. Church B&G Committee

Music Sunday December 7th at 10:00 a.m.
Solstice Trilogy — Elicker/Hardin
A reflective choral piece celebrating the Winter Solstice and the turning of the light.

• 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  |