Greetings everyone! On behalf of the Standing Committee, welcome back to our sanctuary services season. One issue that stood out from the Spirit of Life project was the need to improve communication both externally and internally. To that end, as the SC chair, I am committed to authoring a monthly news and notes column to keep you informed of the SC’s work this year.
But first, who are the members of the SC and what is our ministry? The members elected by the congregation are Gail Burati, Tom Coffey, Ron Deschenes, Rebecca Gore, Ami Hughes, Dave Kaffine (treasurer), Colleen Leary (clerk), John Schneider, and Doug Snow. Rev. Ellen Spero is an ex officio (non-voting) member. Our ministry is to be stewards for the governance of First Parish addressing issues ranging from revenue and budget; staffing and HR; member, committee and volunteer engagement; community relations; building stewardship; strategic planning, etc. Our ministry is one way we live our covenant and sustain and support our beloved community. It’s challenging work but we have fun too, and Rev. Ellen always brings excellent baked goods to our meetings! We meet on the third Tuesday of the month, and we always have time on the agenda for “open forum” which is an opportunity for members to bring an issue to the SC for consideration.
On September 5th we are naming the kitchen after our beloved friend Carlene Merill as a tribute to her dedication to First Parish. Carlene loved working in the kitchen to serve others, just one of the many ways she contributed to our congregational life. We will be officially launching the fundraising campaign for the Carelene Merrill Fund, a special fund we have established with generous support from her family that will provide bridge funding to meet unanticipated staff needs such as additional work hours, health care coverage, or professional development, for example, to advance First Parish’s spiritual or community growth.
Finally, let me close with a personal observation. You’ll notice that we are flying a Have Mercy flag above our entrance and may wonder why. In January, at the inaugural prayer service in Washington, Bishop Mariann Edgar Budde spoke these words to president Trump, “have mercy upon the people in our country who are scared now.” While on a trip, Rev. Ellen saw the flag and suggested to the SC that we purchase one to display at First Parish. I also bought one to fly at my house. It’s a simple message yet profound for our times and right on point for UU’s. I hope you consider flying a Have Mercy flag too at your home.
-John Schneider, SC Chair
