Upon returning home I tore open my closets and repurposed most of my old clothes – those “Just in case the weight comes back” clothes. But I didn’t stop there, I reorganized my personal altar (which had expanded over the years to three) and lovingly released all the precious gifts people had given me over the years. What I am left with is space: space in my closet, in my life, and in my heart.

What in your life or ministry is taking up too much space? Whether a long-held belief of a dusty prayer book – there is value in taking a moment to ask yourself if it opens your heart. If not, perhaps it is time to lovingly release it and see what may come.

As you may know, on July 1, the UUMA began an experiment in shared leadership. On retreat, the newly formed Executive Team, pro tem worked with the talented Rev. Dr. Debra Jackson to define goals, clarify responsibilities, establish a peer supervision model, and make a plan for the coming year (we are continuing our coaching with Rev. Jackson monthly). As part of reviewing our portfolios I once again find myself wanting to “let go.” In looking at our tasks, procedures, policies, and even programs - what do we strengthen and keep, what do we pass on to others, and what do we bless and let go of? As we further define our roles, we have created a FAQ document (see link below) to help everyone understand both the time line and structure of our staff leadership team. It is our hope that this, along with our revised Organizational Chart, will help when you are wondering who you should reach out to. Your feedback is welcome and appreciated.

As we begin to let go of “business as usual,” I invite you to join me in a sense of curiosity to see what might come – what might fill the space. I am looking forward to this year of questioning and exploration, am enjoying this new leadership role, and am thrilled by the chance to participate in this enriching, collaborative process. Thank you for your partnership in the journey.