Dear Beloved Community,
As we roll into the month of December, our attention settles on the spiritual value of presence.
The warning we often get about the end of the year season of holidays and parties is that, with
consumerism run rampant and heightened expectations for a time of merriment and gift giving, baking and perfection, we lose sight of the “true meaning” of things. After all, there are even Holiday-themed action movies and murder mysteries. The holiday lens on things permeates the most surprising things.
Deep within that warning, however, is a spiritual truth that can serve us at any time of year- asking of us to answer the question- what are we present to, and to whom?
If you have ever gone with someone to the doctor, or watched your child’s baseball game or music recital, then you have practiced the art of presence. When it comes to our families and friends, being present is something we often do without asking; it is how we live out our connections to one another.
The month of December is a good one to ask questions of ourselves and within our communities about what we are present to, and what we long to manifest. Because it comes at the end of the calendar year, in the midst of growing cold and darkness and when we often “turn over” a new leaf, new goals, or new possibilities, the silence and comfort found in the presence of winter can be a gift, forcing us to “fill our cup” with self-care first. The first stage of that? Slow down, even when you think you do not need to!
This is the first December in the new space, and so I hope you will join us particularly for Decorating/Multi-generational service on December 1st, and the traditional Christmas Eve service on December 24th at 4pm.
There are many, many more events to delight and connect you this month; take care, be well, and grace us with your presence in whatever way works for you.
Blessed Be, Amen, Ashe, Shalom.
Rev. Valerie