On the turning away From the pale and downtrodden And the words that they say Which we won’t understand Don’t accept that what’s happening Is just a case of others’suffering Or you’ll find that you’re joining in The turning away Pink Floyd fans will recognize these lyrics from one of their most socially aware songs. … Continue reading From the Interim
Upon his retirement, Anglican Archbishop David Hope noted, “I have always hoped that it might be possible to conclude my ministry as I had begun it, as a parish priest…” You have heard by now that your board and I reached an agreement to extend my interim ministry through July 1, 2027. Three points guided … Continue reading From the Interim
It’s been 18+ years since I stumbled into a “stringer” job with a staunchly progressive newspaper. The religion contributor just stopped contributing, so I emailed the editor to see what was up. Turns out the writer gave no notice. Did I know anyone who might fill the gap? Having long fantasized about a career in … Continue reading From the Interim
In a Memorial Day article published in the Los Angeles Times circa 1993, essayist and Vietnam combat veteran, John Samuel Tieman realizes his enemy is not just the Viet Cong. He’s also fighting the militarism that invades – sometimes takes – the lives of children. Tieman tells us we should have a separate day of … Continue reading From the Interim
From the Minister Here’s a three-part blog, friends. Part 1: Earlier this week I joined the interfaith group planning a protest vigil for later in May. The goal is to “make witness” – to represent our individual congregations, but more importantly, to show the Port Townsend area that unity is the antidote to isolation. … Continue reading From the Interim
“Time is short” my good friend reminded me the other day. I was my turn to call…three weeks ago. Message received. As always, there was a lot to cover. But no politics or religion. Just two old friends who know there are things far more important than being right. And as always, we touched on … Continue reading From the Interim
The particularly nasty cold being passed around Port Townsend came my way earlier this week. Nothing unique or long-term. I’ll be fine. But being sick has me thinking about those of you who live with much more serious pain, conditions and limitations. You share with me your fears about the state of this uncertain world; … Continue reading From the Interim
One of the best things about being a UU transitional minister is time spent with colleagues. It’s lifegiving to hang with people whose journey and call have led them to this stripe of ministry. Earlier this week I joined fifteen or so interim colleagues for a primer on our new online hymnal, “Sing Out Love.” … Continue reading From the Interim
I’ve often mentioned the Five Focus Points of Transitional Ministry as we go about our shared work at QUUF – touchstones for our good but often demanding work. As we begin our eighth month together (total virtual plus in-person) let’s review a bit, Here they are again in order: Heritage: Reviewing how the Congregation has … Continue reading From the Interim
The Six Values that now express Unitarian Universalist are for real. It’s taking time to make the transition from a narrative-based description (the Seven Principles, circa 1985) to a distilled list of core values, but it’s happening. The struggle surrounding the change is also real. Not so long ago your congregation mirrored that struggle, as … Continue reading From the Interim
