Sunday’s (May 1) 60th Anniversary Celebration was wonderful – three hours of memories, food, song and feeling good about UUCA! Thanks to all who
contributed to making our time together so special. The morning was a meaningful context to reflect on our past, the present and, of course, our future. One thing that was striking for me was that the first thirty years of UUCA’s life didn’t see a whole lot of change. Sure – the membership grew, there were several buildings identified as “the church,” even the congregation’s name changed four times. But the differences and diversity in people and programs were neither deep nor wide. When my ministry with you began at about the half way point in this history, it took about five years before we started to see some shifts.
Now, I want to be honest about this: Many of the dramatic shifts in our membership and creating innovative programs were not unique to me nor us, but were being reflected from the culture around us – “Boomers” with children coming to church; Boomers (and eventually Gen-Xers) dissatisfied with the tepid, disembodied Sunday service and spirituality of their parents (and grandparents); a desire to be moved, not convinced during services; a community that offered a variety of experiences.
Of course, these kinds of changes and the transitions that result are often difficult to hear and feel. I was keenly aware of this challenging process during our conversation last Sunday (April 24, 4-6:30 pm). I was expecting no more than 30 people; I was pleased that 70 participated. As I looked around the sanctuary – the chairs were in a large circle – I recognized nearly everyone, but that recognition didn’t prepare me for what I heard. The difference and diversity of expressions and needs, hopes and disappointments were striking (if not startling). Sixty years ago – forty years ago, maybe even thirty years ago – no one would have imagined this kind of diversity. And there was more.
Yes, there was diversity in the room – understand that diversity just is; diversity is static. Our 2 ½ hours was also a lesson in pluralism – with our differences and diversity we took the bold step of engaging each other and it’s this willingness to be in active relationship that is characteristic of pluralism. In spite of – or maybe because of – the heightened awareness of our differences and diversity, we chose conversation, we chose relationship, we were urged to listen; we leaned into Beloved Community, which is no easy thing.
Now that I’m thinking about it, our gathering and conversation was an “Anniversary moment and gift” – since 1956 I don’t think there has been anything quite like it. And we can expect more: As many of you know, our nation is growing with diversity, with more and greater differences. Such diversity and difference has fueled some with the energy not for pluralism and Beloved Community, but bigotry, fear mongering and xenophobia. In this anniversary year, let us recommit to not fall for the deceptive bait of division and isolation; let us instead step into the bold, broadening and deepening opportunity of Beloved Community.
Take care, and see you soon,
Fred
