Welcome back, for those returning!
Welcome in, for those seeking!
Welcome to all!
Minister’s Message
January 2025
Hello Beloved Friends,
I’ve lived in Florida for the better part of two decades, and my attitude about winters here is evolving. I love warm! I grew up in Southern California where we got skateboards, roller skates and swimming suits for Christmas – and used them that day. I raised my children in Michigan where it sometimes snowed on Halloween, Christmas, Easter and Mother’s Day! Ugh! I was so glad to leave the snow that I promised myself when I moved to Florida that I would never complain about the heat. (A promise I’ve broken, usually around October.)
My point is - I thought I would never miss the cold. But this year I find myself grabbing a comfy sweatshirt and warm socks and heading outside to enjoy a cup of piping hot tea. A few evenings ago our power went out and I bundled up and sat in the backyard. It surprised me how much I liked the slight chill and the darkness. I lit some candles and listened to the nighttime sounds.
Today I read this lovely Winter Solstice Blessing and give thanks to the world for the light and darkness, the warmth and chill. Maybe it will resonate with you, wherever you are during the holiday season or will begin the new year.
May you find peace in the promise of the solstice night.
That each day forward is blessed with more light.
That the cycle of nature, unbroken and true,
brings faith to your soul and well-being to you.
Rejoice in the darkness, in the silence find rest,
And may the days that follow be abundantly blessed.
Warmly,
Pastor Patti
And here’s another luscious view of winter in Florida,
taken by Karen Strohbeen, after their morning trip to the
St. Petersburg Farmer’s Market.
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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