Dear Members and Friends,
It has been an honor and a privilege to serve as your minister. It has been a blessing for me to help you bring forth and engage the wisdom and commitment among you. Over the last two years, you have done such good work in identifying how you want to be with one another. It’s clear that you want to grow your congregation so that more people find deep connection, purpose and joy through community and self-expression. May you continue to envision a vibrant community where every member feels empowered to deepen their faith through clarifying your spiritual paths, engaging in meaningful relationships, and contributing positively to your wider community.
Also, over the last two years, our nation has changed dramatically. The dedicated ways in which you wish to show up in the wider community may evolve, especially when it comes to making your part of the world safer for the most vulnerable. This is a growing edge for all Unitarian Universalist congregations, and as you do the work of launching a national search for your next settled minister, it’s an apt time for you to collectively reflect on what it now means for your congregation to embody its values.
Of course there have been changes these past two years with new members coming in and the death and departure of others. Nothing has been as meaningful for me as companioning through the celebration of and grieving the lives of members who died. Your Memorial Garden holds a special place in my heart.
Speaking of deaths, there are people associated with UU Westport who have recently died that I want to bring to your attention:
- Bob Bevacqua – Bob devoted his life to assisting people in recovery, and for over ten years, he led the Thursday evening Alcoholics Anonymous group at the Meeting House. A celebration of his life is being planned outside at Compo Beach. Rev. Jim Francek will provide details as they become known.
- Valerie Lytle Gunning – A former member and Board member of UU Westport, she had moved away about twenty years ago. A celebration of her life was held at the Unitarian Universalist congregation in Kingston, NY. Her obituary can be found HERE.
- Don Snook – Don Snook died on June 10 at the age of 102. A long time member, Don served on the Board, led many hikes, and headed the Building Committee for many years, with special focus on the grounds’ trees. A memorial service was held in England. His obituary can be found HERE.
As I leave you, I take with me a lot of learning as well as great appreciation for the good work that you have accomplished during my time with you. I am grateful for the many meals you shared with me and the many rides from the airport. But most of all I am grateful for how so many of you opened up your hearts and shared honestly and openly with me and with others. You have so much wisdom among you, so much talent, and you have a fabulous lean staff. Know that I will wear the stole you gifted me with pride and affection, and during the winter months, I will have the shawl you gifted me near me in my office.
I so look forward to learning how your future unfolds.
Warmly,
Alan
