Mending the Sacred Hoop is a committee of the Social Justice Council at the Unitarian Universalist Congregation in Westport.
The sacred hoop reflects an Indigenous understanding that all life is interconnected—people, land, water, animals, and future generations joined in a circle that deserves respect and care. We also recognize that this circle has been deeply fractured through historical and ongoing injustices experienced by Native and First Nations peoples. Mending the sacred hoop calls us to face these realities honestly and to participate in the work of healing, repair, and right relationship.
The purpose of Mending the Sacred Hoop is to deepen congregational understanding of Indigenous history, lived experience, and present-day justice challenges, while engaging our community in meaningful and respectful ways of offering support.
We seek to live out this purpose by:
Creating ongoing educational opportunities centered on Indigenous voices and teachers- Building connections with local, regional, and national Indigenous-led initiatives
- Collaborating with other Unitarian Universalist congregations and ministries engaged in this work
- Developing relationships with First Nations communities to identify appropriate and practical support
- Increasing awareness and taking faithful action when injustice and oppression arise
Through learning, relationship, and action, Mending the Sacred Hoop invites our congregation to participate in the shared work of restoring balance, honoring Indigenous wisdom, and strengthening the circle of life to which we all belong.
Grandmother Nancy Andry and Rev. Jim Francek
Co-leaders
Grandmother Nancy Andry Email
Rev. Jim Francek: Email
