MINISTER’S CORNER
by Rev. Phillip Lund
“Democracy is more than a political system. It is a sacred practice of how we live together, rooted in covenant, collective accountability, and the inherent worth and dignity of every person.” These words, from Side With Love—the Organizing Strategy Team of the Unitarian Universalist Association—are especially significant this month as we await the results of the midterm election.
It’s almost certain that the final results will take many days or weeks to become clear. Which is why I invite you to join me on Thursday, November 5, at 7:00 p.m. for a one-hour Post-Election Gathering hosted by the Minnesota Unitarian Universalist Social Justice Alliance. MUUSJA believes that “Minnesota's election system is safe and secure, but we don't know what external forces, disruptions or federal interference may occur here or across the United States. This gathering will provide a grounding space for us to be with others who believe in a strong democracy. Together we can face whatever happens."
You can register for MUUSJA’s Post-Election Gathering here: https://secure.everyaction.com/l6ZBc12oHUucEOVJEb4peg2
Whatever the results of this election, it is clear that our country is in desperate need of healing. And healing is, indeed, our Soul Matters theme the month of November. You’re invited to explore with me the possibility of healing in our lives, both individually and collectively, on Wednesday, November 4, at 7:00 p.m. for a one-hour introduction to this month’s Soul Matters theme. We’ll reflect on wise words about healing from bell hooks, Rachel Naomi Remen, Wendell Berry, Adrienne Rich, and others. Here’s the Zoom link https://us06web.zoom.us/j/85772083027.
November brings a time to remember those who have passed away. On Sunday, November 1, at 10:30 a.m., we’ll gather for “These Brave and Lovely Spirits: A Ritual of Remembrance,” joining religious communities around the world that honor those who have gone before us in late October or early November. Together, we’ll have an opportunity to share our grief and, perhaps, find a sense of healing.
Two weeks later, on Sunday, November 15, at 10:30 a.m., I’ll lead “The Healing Power of Rest.” With constant connectivity and a 24-hour news cycle, slowing down can feel like a luxury. We’ll explore the importance of making time for rest and renewal, continuing our reflection on healing.
Finally, technical difficulties made it impossible for folks to join last month’s Zoom gathering on how the value of Interdependence intersects with the Rings of Love model, a model the UUA developed to explore this year’s Common Read, Love at the Center: Unitarian Universalist Theologies. I’ve rescheduled that one-hour event for Wednesday, November 18, at 7:00 p.m. Please feel free to join me using this Zoom link https://us06web.zoom.us/j/85772083027. There’s no need to register for this event or the November 4 introduction to this month’s Soul Matters theme, just show if up if you’re interested!