Imagineers of the Spirit
by Rev. Bret Lortie

Our annual stewardship campaign is here — and this year truly is different. We’re between settled ministers, envisioning our future, and moving through a pivotal moment. That’s why our theme this year is “Imagine.”

We’re halfway through the drive and about halfway to our budget goal, with more than sixty members and friends already pledging. That’s inspiring — but we can’t celebrate until the last pledge comes in before the end of April. I’m writing to ask if you would consider turning in your pledge form this week. 

Unitarian Universalism is, at its heart, a saving faith. It saves people from materialism and selfishness, from the illusion of separateness, from the exclusion some of us felt in other religious communities. Each of us found our way here for a reason. The question today isn’t whether this community matters — it’s how we can support this institution of which we’re so proud.

I grew up near Disneyland, with family ties to Disney’s “Imagineers” — the creative teams who “build experiences meant to connect and inspire across generations.” I went to Disneyland several times each year—in high school often as a performer—and despite what I know today of some corporate failings (every institution must reconcile its history), visiting the park always felt like dropping into a different world filled with creativity, wonder, and global idealism. When I learned our theme this year was “Imagine,” the connection clicked. Our stewardship team, board, council, and leaders are our church’s Imagineers, working to create a home of wonder, peacemaking in our community and world, and counter-cultural power for all who walk through our doors.

Some of us give time. Some give talent. Some give treasure. May each of us give what we are able— and may what you give bring you joy.

Choir Reminder

Sunday morning Choir rehearsals will start at 8:45 a.m. from now until Music Sunday on May 17th. 

20/30s Group Meeting

Young adults in their 20s and 30s are invited to gather after worship on April 19th in the Youth Room for conversation and connection. 

🌿 Prairie & Woodland Work Days – All Are Welcome! 🌿
Did you know that Illinois is known as the Prairie State? Once covered in vast prairies, this unique habitat is now among the most endangered in the country. We’re also proud to support pollinators like the beautiful Monarch butterfly, our state insect. We’re fortunate to   have a prairie on our church grounds—a special space that needs ongoing care. Without natural grazers like American bison, prairies and woodlands rely on us for maintenance.
This is a wonderful opportunity for all ages to come together and care for the land!
📅 Dates: Saturdays, May 18 & May 25
🕘 Time: 9:00 AM – 12:00 PM
🛠️ What We’ll Be Doing:

• Trimming and removing small trees
• Cutting back vines
• Filling holes in the prairie paths
• General prairie and woodland maintenance

👟 What to Bring & Wear:

• Sturdy, closed-toe shoes
• Long pants
• Gloves
• Optional: long-sleeve shirt
• Water bottle (please label with your name)

🌱 This is a multigenerational effort, and everyone is welcome—bring friends, family, and neighbors!

• 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  |