As we move towards the end of our third year of shared ministries here at First Unitarian Portland, I am conscious of all the ways that 2024 – 2025 has been filled with renewal, inspiration, and commitment.
Last Sunday was a prime example: We honored our Coming-of-Age Students (7th and 8th graders) in a special service celebrating the community they have built together and hearing their thoughts about the meaning of this church and the values that guide their lives. We were witness to a soaring presentation of Fauré’s Requiem by our choirs and instrumentalists in our Music & Worship service. We shared in the business of running this spiritual village at our Annual Forum where we had the chance to hear how the staff and volunteers have furthered our work of putting love at the center of our lives.
There were a number of brief reflections shared that highlight all we have done together, the ways we are healing and growing, and the ways we are shaping a bright future with one another. I encourage you to click the links below to check these out, if you missed any of them on Sunday. Each link goes directly to that particular reflection.
At the Music & Worship Service, Garrett Bond, our Interim Music Director, shared an update about our music program. Click to see it at minute 24:52
At our Annual Meeting, Rev. Alison Miller, our Senior Minister, shared highlights focused on our collective priorities for 2024 – 2025 and how we have moved them forward. Click to see it at minute 13:15
Danielle Garrett, our Assistant Minister, shared some highlights from her two years with us and some parting words of wisdom. Click to see it at minute 28:55
John Bishop, our First Vice-Moderator, shared highlights from the Governance Committee and the Right Relations Formation Taskforce and the Human Resources Advisory Committee to the Executive Team. Click to see it at minute 44:05
Linda Craig, a board member on the Finance Team, shared a brief financial update. Click to see it at minute 53:25
Art Ungar, our new Denominational Affairs Chair, shared some invitations to engage with the wider UUA of which we are a part. Click to see it at minute 57:13
Rev. Alison Miller shared brief remarks about next year’s mission, vision, and strategic planning efforts. Click to see it at 1hr 03:10
David Livermore, our Board Secretary, shared the results of the elections and the bylaws proposals. Click to see it at 1hr 06:57
These reflections testify to the hard work and dedication of so many people, volunteers and staff, who are guiding and building up our cherished community of belonging. Thank you for all the large and small ways all of you have helped to co-create the past, present, and future of First Unitarian.
With deep gratitude,
Rev. Alison