Minister's Notes-July 2010

Summer has arrived.  It's the season many Minnesotans wait for all year long.  It's our reward for the extended winters we endure (or love, depending on your preference!)  Summer is the growing season.  My young Pagoda dogwood tree has shot up 15 inches in the past two weeks alone!

 For some this is a busy season of tending the fields, gardens or summer jobs.  For others this is the season of rest and vacation.  John and I have had a couple weeks of vacation with our children already this summer, and we look forward to some time up north, finding renewal by the lake and spending increasingly precious time with our aging parents.

I returned from a wonderful week in the Seattle area just in time for the Annual Congregational Meeting on June 13.  The choir service led by Joe Mish that morning was a perfect re-entry for me.  As usual, the choir sang (and spoke!) some very engaging pieces with energy and spirit.  As I looked around the room and at the faces in the choir, I felt once again the blessing of being with you.

 The Annual Meeting itself included many delightful moments of appreciation for those who have generously given service to the church.  There was also the discussion and approval of the process for considering social justice resolutions by the congregation.  I have heard many people express their appreciation for the tone of the discussion as civil and thorough.  I share that sense.  The Social Justice Resolution Task Force had very carefully considered and presented a thoughtful process and the vote was a strong endorsement of their work.  

Not everyone agreed with the outcome, which is to be expected in a group this diverse and strong.  But the quality of the discussion was an indication that we as a congregation can take on ifficult controversial topics, managing the conflict with respect and grace, allowing each to add to the dialogue and deliberation.  I believe the experience has strengthened us as a community.  The new process offers us an additional way to publicly witness - to affirm and promote - our values.  It is my deep hope and trust that those who have different understandings will continue to share their important wisdom with the group.

 Wishing you a season of rest and renewal.

 See you in August,

  -Carol