As we move into the month of November, halfway between the Autumn Equinox and the Winter Solstice, this is a traditional time of feasting and celebrating the end of the harvest time. At this time, we may take stock of the occurrences of the summer and prepare for the transition into the darker, more reflective part of the year.

According to a blog published by The Druid’s Garden, “The yearly cycle of the sun encourages us to understand that there are times of scarcity and abundance in our natural world, that there are times of high energy and growth and times of death and quietude, and that everything has a season.”

Here at UUCP, we have just come through a very strenuous season, the impacts of which will be felt deeply for years to come. For one, we said goodbye to several of our beloved congregants this summer. Our caring community comes together in grief while also offering comfort to those most affected by the losses.

Amidst these losses, the activity rolled on with a particularly frenetic October. A yard sale, pancake breakfast with guests from the Islamic Center, series of six House Meetings to focus on social problems, webinar on the possibilities small congregations are capable of, two workshops on the purpose and future of our church, and a Ministry Teams Roundtable all took place in October.

Fewer activities are planned in November. Those that are planned focus on sharing our abundance, whether abundance of resources, skill, time, or love. The annual auction and concert with Bobby van Deusen on November 3 is an example of our members and friends turning their time, talents, and treasures into funds to support the work of UUCP. On November 4, we will join with the other congregations of JUST Pensacola to commit to work together for a just resolution of a mutually selected community problem.

We also begin this month to gather financial contributions for a holiday gift for our church staff and to recognize the Guests at Your Table as families drop coins and bills into collection boxes for the worldwide humanitarian work of UU Service Committee. In both cases, donations of all sizes add to the combined gifts and are appreciated.

In November, we gather together for a slower, darker, quieter season. The transition is needed whether or not we realize.

Until next time,

Lauren Anzaldo
Board President