Sunny Notes: 02.25.26 - Gathering

In a recent newsletter from the Unitarian Universalist Minister's Association (UUMA), the Director of Operations for the UUMA, Janette Lallier, writes: 

"In the heaviness of the news cycle and the demands of showing up in this pivotal time, it can be easy to miss the moments that steady us — the reflections of something life-giving in the midst of all that asks our attention and calls us to action. One way to feed that well — to intentionally move out of the rush to remember what sustains us — is by gathering."

Reading her words, I cannot help but think about our Stewardship Campaign Kick-Off Event we held at BUF on Friday, February 20. From the baked potato bar organized by Genia Allen-Schmid, to the Jeopardy and fun video montage offered by Erica Mallin, to the fantastic potato-themed art work created by the kiddos with help from the Beehive Community Studio upstairs, to the "Generositini" cocktail compliments of Doug Branson, to the photos captured by Rod Haynes, to all the behind-the-scenes decorating and preparation from folks like Lisa Moss, Patricia Conover, Claire Lending, and Murray Bennett, to the stewarding provided by Alex Santo, Isaac Roys, and Alan Roys, the evening was a meaningful joint effort. 

About 80 members and friends of BUF showed up to share in the fellowship and fun. As I looked out across the packed Social Hall on Friday night, as I listened to the lively voices and laughter, as I felt the strong connections in this BUF community, Janette's words came to life — this time of gathering offered something deeply life-giving in the midst of all the heaviness and the demands of the current moment. I am grateful to be a part of such a community. Here is to our continued gathering and the sustenance it can provide. 

— Sunny, minister