I awoke on the first day of summer, in Minnesota, on my way north to Unitarian Universalist General Assembly. The cool air reminded me of when 18th century Unitarians traveled north for the summer and their churches would shut down for two months. If the more orthodox complained about this practice the Unitarians would explain that they were the only people good enough for God to trust out of his sight more than a week at a time.
Joking aside we understand that what can truly be called God is not found only in church, but in nature and in the human heart. Rightly understood religion is not about what we do in temple, or mosque but how we live our lives, and it applies to all our days, not just those that include communal worship. Ironically, the religious community is thus more important not less so. We seek to be nurtured and supported, inspired and changed twelve months a year. The meaning of our lives never takes a vacation.
An old saying is that the purpose of an apple tree is not to produce apples, but more apple trees. The purpose of a UU church is not to create worship or gather in a building, but to change lives and liberate people from fear, suffering, injustice and delusion.
Though I go on summer break on July 3rd I remain your Minister every day. I will not schedule regular meetings for the rest of July and will rarely be in the office. But I am still available. If you see me around feel free to say hello and tell me what is going on. If you have suggestions for sermon topics, feel free to send me email. If you have an emergency call and leave a message and I will get back to you. I hope you enjoy these early days of summer.
Peace,
Thomas
