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Dear UCC Members and Friends,
April 14, 2020
The time for us to part has come. Please make plans to join us this Sunday, April 19
th
at 10AM for a worship celebration and time of saying Shalom (Peace be with you) together (online). I have been called to be of service to the good folks of Hillcrest UCC in Pleasant Hill, CA and this will be my last Sunday with you as your interim Senior Minister. Such is the nature of transitional ministry, such is the nature of our lives...
What a wonderful year it has been. Thank you for giving me this opportunity to serve and to be in ministry with you. I have many great memories I will take with me such as working in the garden with the UCC Youth at Community First, restoring the Earth together at Vacation Bible School, celebrating "Love is Love" at Austin Pride, and our Blessing of the Animals celebration to name a few. I am deeply grateful for all you have taught me and for the way you constantly opened your hearts to me.
I encourage you to continue to think boldly, with great courage and an eye to the promising future of your church. These are extraordinary times and the world is in great need of spiritual communities such like yours. As we like to say, Be the Church... I have seen you do it and know you will continue.
Transitions are always difficult, and this one is even more of a challenge because we cannot gather and share our joy, our sorrows and our memories face to face. We will just have to say Shalom in our virtual gathering this time. Know of my deep appreciation for the many times we have been together and that I will treasure them as I head out West.
Stay safe and be well,
Shalom, Pastor Laura
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