From Pastor Alicia

November 5, 2021

Giving thanks

Greetings!

November, this year, seems a month of transition. This week the weather has turned much colder. The tree’s leaves are becoming more vibrant in Autumn colors before they fall to the ground. In the life of the church we begin by honoring and celebrating the lives of our loved ones who have passed, worship being led by our Connections group, Thanksgiving and concluding our month with the start of Advent. We transition from honoring our past to our hope in the future as Christ followers.

Our guests at the Food Center @ 324 and Bagel Breakfast seem to be transitioning from a calmer summer to a more anxious time as we enter the Holiday season. Food and housing insecurity is stressful in itself but add the expectations of the Holidays is just overwhelming.

So, as we transition to the hope we find in Advent, let’s take the time to truly give thanks. Journaling or recognized gratitude in our lives is so very important. Today, the hymn “Give Thanks (with a Grateful Heart)” which is based on Ephesians 5: 19-20.

EPHESIANS 5:19-20 ~ “Speaking to one another in psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, singing and making melody in your heart to the Lord, giving thanks always for all things to God the Father in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ.”

I’m grateful for you. I’m grateful for your generosity. I’m grateful for all the volunteers to make ministry at UUMC. I’m grateful for our guests. I’m grateful for our outstanding staff. I’m grateful for God’s ever presence in my life and in yours. What are you grateful for?

In this month of transition, I pray you stay warm and well. I pray you take time to take in the natural transition of nature, the life of the church and your own life. I pray you remain grateful this year and all year long.

Peace,
Pastor Alicia

 

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