The Vibrancy of Summer

Dear UUCP friends,

With the arrival of summer and the end of the school year, we begin to welcome longer days and brace for the coming months of sweltering heat. Memorial Day Weekend, when we honor our fallen service members, has traditionally marked the beginning of summer — and here in Pensacola, it’s when our LGBTQ+ neighbors and visitors from around the region gather on our beautiful beaches in the spirit of Emma Jones.

With that bridge into June, I’m pleased to share that our Sunday Services team has arranged a very special slate of speakers to honor Pride Month. In a time when our LGBTQ+ loved ones face increasing hostility and challenges, these services are more important than ever. Our congregation’s commitment to love, inclusion, and justice shines brightly as we come together to celebrate and support the full diversity of human identity and experience.

June also marks the final month of the UUCP board year, and with it, the close of my term as your president. It has truly been an honor to serve this vibrant and compassionate community. Over the past year, I am proud of what we have accomplished together — from strengthening our outreach through community events and improved video recording, to tackling nuts-and-bolts issues like our bylaws and insurance.

Looking ahead, I am excited to welcome Crys Brockway as the incoming board president. I have every confidence that Crys will build upon the momentum we have created and continue guiding our church with vision and heart.

Thank you all for your support, your participation, and your dedication to our shared values. Here’s to a joyful and meaningful Pride Month and a bright future for UUCP.

With gratitude and hope,

Joe Vinson

President, UUCP Board of Directors