Welcome back, for those returning!
Welcome in, for those seeking!
Welcome to all!

Hello Beloved Friends,
Last Sunday during our service we sketched pencil drawings of a turtle while Jami Cruz read to us a true story about the Painted Turtle, who can lie still for up to six months to stay alive and well in winter ponds. Buried in mud, the turtle buries herself beneath the weight of frigid, icy water. If she stayed busy, the cold could kill her. So, she makes herself utterly still. Listening to her inner wisdom, she sinks down into the deep darkness. She trusts that one day her world will warm again, that she will breathe again and swim free. She will live more than 30 years this way!*

Nature always seems to come through with direction and healing. There is wisdom in knowing when to head toward stillness and reflection, and when to reemerge.

We know that in the days and months and years ahead we will need to build communities of resistance and come together with fierce love to support each other and protect the most vulnerable among us.

May you find moments of peace in this upending time. Being in a covenant community is a collective spiritual practice, and you are cared about here. Join us on Sunday morning at 10:30. Come by during the week for one of our many centering activities, including meditation and poetry circles. Roam the beautiful grounds. Sit by the fountain. Schedule a tour to see our beautiful art. Special thanks to Karen Strohbeen, our friend and resident neighborhood artist, who sent me these colorful turtles. Come by the church and see them, along with the sketches you created last Sunday.

Be gentle with yourself. Reach out if you need help. It’s been quite a stretch!

With Love,
Pastor Patti

P.S. I am almost always at the church on Mondays and Thursdays from 10-3 at my rolling desk and chair with Diet Coke and Cheez-Its to share. Some of the time is for scheduled meetings and visits. I’m happy to make appointments if you’d like to chat or say hello. You can email me at minister@uutarpon.org. I’m also glad to make an evening visit available if that works better for you.

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