Dear Members and Friends,
I find tremendous meaning in the Passover story, a story of struggle and liberation, a story that is retold every year by the Jewish faithful, typically on the first or second day of Passover. Here at UU Westport, we shall hold our UU Westport Seder on Saturday, April 19 at 5:30-8:00 PM.
I am grateful to Angi Haen, Peter Lerman, Eileen Belmont, and Wendy Levy for planning and hosting this multi-generational gathering that includes a potluck dinner and an age-appropriate reading of the Passover story. If you or your family would like to participate, please sign up HERE.
On May 11, Mother’s Day, we will hold our final service in the sanctuary before construction begins. It will be our annual Flower Communion, another multi-generational gathering. Construction on our sanctuary windows, floor, and chancel will commence the very next day!
I am grateful to the Sanctuary Solutions Team that met for several weeks to discern the best alternative for gathering for worship during construction. This team includes Candace Clinger, chair, Rev. Jim Francek, Angi Haen, Micah Krajca, and me. We are grateful for the input and support of many, including all who shared good ideas and those who helped with testing the space in our foyer.
The Sanctuary Solutions team explored a wide range of possibilities for our gatherings:
- Temple Israel
- the United Methodist Church of Westport and Weston
- a congregation in Bridgeport
- at the beach
- under a tent on our property
- in our foyer and east wing
- in the Meeting House
After two months of research and reflection, we discerned that it will best serve our congregation to meet:
- May 18 – June 15 in the foyer and East Wing
- June 22 GA Sunday, all are encouraged to join UUA virtually for their service
- June 29 – August 10 in the Meeting House with a less formal liturgy
- August 17 – September 1 in the foyer or Meeting House
- September 8 in the foyer or possibly in the sanctuary if construction ends early
- September 15 in the sanctuary, if construction goes to plan!
During the summer, our services will feel a little different. I am grateful to Connie Rockman, Linda Hudson, and Rev. Jim Francek for serving as the Summer Worship Team. Between June 29th and August 10th, the worship services will be held in the Meeting House with not only air conditioning but also a significantly altered liturgy that will include the candle boat and a shorter, less formal reflection than a sermon. The specifics are still being worked out as to what else will be included.
It is a joy to work with such thoughtful people who have stepped forward to collectively address the needs of the congregation. I look forward to participating in the first month and a half of this shared journey!
Warmly,
Alan
PS: This month I will be in Westport April 16-20, May 3-7, May 10, and May 17-May 21. I am available to you in person when in town and otherwise via Zoom and phone. Feel free to be in touch with me at alan@uuwestport.org.
