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

Dear Friends,

Boy, has this been a busy Fall!

First, thank you to everyone who contributed to the organization and coordination of our Fall Auction.  Special thanks to Rebecca Beneditz and Alexis Simmons for their hard work.  Also, thank you to everyone who contributed items and/or purchased things. I know it was a great time to mingle, share food, and fun, all while raising money to support our many Church programs.

Next, thank you to the Renee Mealey Nominating Team, who have been very busy taking a fresh look at how we will choose a Search Team that will eventually look for a new Settled Minister.  Be sure to read Rev. Bret’s columns as he also keeps us up to date on the two-year process of finding a new minister for our Church.

Finally, thank you to VP Diane Kuehl and the Leaders Round Table.  These folks have been examining the outdated Committee and Team Charters.  (These are available on our website under ‘About,’ and then ‘Our Governance’.  Scroll to ‘Charters.”)  And if you are curious about the Church Bylaws and Board and Staff guidelines, stop and read those too!

Board President
Wendy Bennett

Auction Results

• 92 people will enjoy dinner parties with fellow members
• 54 members will partake in parties, excursions, and craft work together
• 28 members will get special deliveries of food, pies, candies, and soups
• 107 people gathered for a potluck at the auction
• 150+ will someday hear a Rev. Bret sermon chosen by Dave Black
• The church earned $10,600 for its work.

• 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  |