Minister’s Message

Dear ones,

Last week, I had the pleasure of meeting with Rev. Dr. Sofia Betancourt, president of the Unitarian Universalist Association. During the Q&A session, President Betancourt was asked about how to respond to this moment, when so many systems in this country are stacked against basic human rights, justice, and equity for all. She told the gathering of UU ministers that the UUA encourages us to work hyper-locally – to strengthen the ties we have in our own communities, with partners who are also doing the work of justice, centered in love.

I commend this congregation for its ties to the local community – through Common Ground, which serves Napa and Solano counties, the Napa Food Bank, participation in the Martin Luther King Day of Service, and all the organizations and services our members and friends are engaged in. From my involvement in the Napa Valley Interfaith Leaders Circle, I know NVUU has a fine reputation for showing up and taking part.

So how can we deepen our ties? How shall we show up now? On Sunday afternoon, we have the opportunity to participate in Napa Day Against Hate, from 12:30 to 3:00 pm in Veterans Park. I hope you will join me in heading there after the Sunday service.

The Digest is full of other ways to strengthen ties with the local community, from gathering for No Kings Day (I’ll be in Santa Cruz for that one), to helping the Friday Free Market and Diaper Drive for the Napa Food Bank, with our partner Covenant Presbyterian, or attending a Death Positive event, Community Singing Circle, or Pastor’s Potluck (and bring your friends!). And, trust me, there will be more opportunities! If you have ideas, bring them to one of your Board Members or me. We are all ears.

President Betancourt reminded us that we must nurture hope together, as a shared enterprise. Working together locally, in ways that make a positive different, adds to our collective reservoir of hope, a source that will sustain us through these times. None of us can do it all, but together, we can manifest our vision of a just and equitable world, centered in love.

In faith,

Rev. Susan