A Different Christmas (and Christmas Eve)

Dear Friends,

“I’m so filled with hope that I can’t sit still, and I can’t keep quiet!” So said new UUA President Peter Morales from our pulpit last Sunday.

We have a “breathtaking opportunity” as Unitarians to share our faith with millions who seek progressive religious community, Peter told us. His hope and ours, he said, must flow from our ‘precious memories’ of times when we have known love, joy, meaning and purpose.

Now is a good time to search for those memories, the Christmas season being much about memory and rich old stories, especially of times when we felt loved, nurtured and embraced.

Alas, Christmas, especially as commercialized, is all too often only about nostalgia, dreamy memories of saccharine sweetness, impossibly perfect families, and mind-numbing enchantment.

I suppose I love the enchantments of the season as much as anyone, yet find it hard to live on a diet of dessert alone. So, this year, I ask you to indulge me in making a part of your holiday slightly edgy. Slightly.

This Sunday, for example, I’ll read parts of the gospel Christmas stories rarely heard in polite company, stories not entirely appropriate for small children to hear. And I’ll talk with you about the fecundity and sensuality associated with Christmas, and all such as that.

Then on Christmas Eve, into a very traditional 7:00 p.m. candle lighting service of lessons and carols, replete with old favorites, we’ll insert some new life with dramatic readings by Samantha and Erica Nagel, two gifted young women with family ties to this church. Those who know their parents won’t have any trouble imagining that they are dramatically talented. Samantha, in fact, has acted professionally; Erica’s ability to inspire became apparent when, as a teenager, she inspired this church to forge a partnership with Arkos, Transylvania.

I’m guessing that the way their dramatizations are served up, blending with Sanctuary Choir selections, will help make this a Fresh Christmas for you and yours.

Best,

David

The President and You

Dear Friends,

Our worship last Sunday was amazing—a word I use sparingly. The musical gifts were inspiring, as was the opportunity to welcome Annise Parker, and to sing for her a rousing rendition of “Standing on the Side of Love.” We left the Sanctuary in a mood to celebrate, and the party provided by the Senior Minister Search Committee was just the place to do it.

This coming Sunday, Dec. 13, promises still more riches. Our new national president, Peter Morales, will be my pulpit guest; he tells me that he looks forward to bringing a message that will speak to us both personally and collectively about our calling in life.

In honor of Peter’s visit, our offering will be dedicated to the Association Sunday Fund of the Unitarian Universalist Association, from which First Church has just received a $9,000 grant to support the Rev. Dr. Thandeka’s ministry with us in the New Year.

Do come for 10:30 worship, enjoy lunch and fellowship, then stay for a fresh look at Darwin’s work and the implications of evolution with Connie Barlow, delivering the Joseph Priestly Lecture.

It has become conventional wisdom, and perhaps should not be overemphasized, but I want to mention that I know that this can indeed be a difficult time of year for many. Two things about that: First, if you or someone you know is having a tough time now that might be eased by a small financial gift, do let me or Rev. Adam know. Money from the Ministers’ Discretionary Fund is available in complete confidence. Second: Adam and I are available to listen, to sit with you, to welcome you to pastoral conversation that might ease the stress of the season. We do have time for you.

One thing that makes the season more meaningful and joyful for me is to read and reflect on the old, old story of Christmas. Join me this Thursday evening and next at 7:00 p.m. in the Fireside Room for Christmas goodies and spirited study.

Best,
David