Category: Minister Messages

You are not alone

Dear Ones,

This will be my last newsletter message to you for 2023.  As I wrote in my annual report, this has been quite the year, with much to celebrate and much to reflect upon.  While there will always be challenges and circumstances when you begin … read more.

A break from routine

June can be an exciting month. When I was a child the warm days of late spring and the end of the school year created anticipation as summer meant more time with friends playing outdoors until the street lights came on. After the final report … read more.

Seeking justice

It’s April 12, the day the May newsletter message is due. Wendy and Karen work hard on this newsletter, and I have great respect for their service to UUCNC. But sometimes it can be difficult to know what to write in a message that readers … read more.

April, come she will

Greetings Dear Ones,

“April, come she will; when streams are ripe and swelled with rain”* are the lyrics that begin this simple tune. Its composer, Paul Simon, wrote that he was inspired by an English children’s nursery rhyme about a cuckoo bird, its spring arrival and … read more.

From scarcity to abundance

Greetings Friends,

Today is sunny and warmish, with temps in the 30’s. I am doing some chores around the house and enjoying the effect the sunlight has on my attitude about housework, and on my dog Gracie. As the sunlight moves across the floor, she moves … read more.

When the hibernating mood hits

Dear Friends,

A friend recently called this time of year “hibernation” season.  She mentioned that whenever she feels gloomy, overwhelmed with work, or has lengthy lists without the energy to attack them, she reminds herself of the season, makes a cup of hot, steaming tea, and … read more.

Making precious memories

Early one morning in mid-December I received a call from my youngest sister Mary. She was filling out a questionnaire focused on childhood Christmas memories as preparation for a game my sister-in-law made for our December family gathering. Mary was struggling to answer the questions … read more.

Celebrating our connections

As I write this message, Governor Kathy Hochul has announced a State of Emergency and a ban on westbound commercial travel along the New York Thruway from Rochester to the Pennsylvania line on Route 90.

Will the weather allow me to travel safely on Sunday, when … read more.

Transforming a dreary November

I am going to reveal a secret: I don’t like the month of November very much, especially the beginning.  Samhain is left behind for one more year; the wind has whipped the last remaining leaves from the trees.  The inviting blue waters of Erie look … read more.

Share the best kept secret

Just like a new school year, a congregation’s worship year brings excitement, ideas, and hope galore.

A congregation with a big dream list signifies its members are creative, determined to make things happen. I consider myself very fortunate to serve you. You offer compassion and companionship … read more.