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

As you may have seen in Connections, this General Assembly was a rough one. I was greatly heartened by the outcomes of all the items up for vote, including our new Article II in the UUA bylaws featuring our values and updating other aspects of our national organization and our shared faith. But it was a very painful and emotional GA for many. This was the 4th GA I've either been the Co- or Lead Chaplain and hands down this was the most challenging. There was a lot of hurting among our people.

It's taken some time to recover from that -- but I was easily distracted by needing to finish packing for my move, which happened this Tuesday. Whew! The cats and I are adjusting, each according to our personality (Gemma was out exploring quickly, William only a little, and me just doing the next thing that needs to be done, letting me adjust as I move through it all).

I am still available for pastoral care needs through this month if any emerge -- although I know that you know well how to take care of one another. Many thanks to all of you who came out for Tom Ahrens' memorial, and for all who will come to Irene Prosser's at the end of this month. It's important to celebrate those lives that have touched ours.

I am excited that the search team recommended and the board has contracted with Pastor Patti to serve UUCTS. When she and I have had a chance to work out the details, we'll let you know. In the meantime, I'm the minister of this congregation until July 31. After that, I know some people are planning to keep very loosely connected. Please know that with serving two congregations I'll be pretty busy, and with a bunch more people than there are at UUCTS. My plan is: I won't be reaching out to you after my time ends and if you reach out, I may not be able to reply. I also will not discuss UUCTS happenings with you other than to cheer you on, individually and as a whole. I'm so proud of all you have done in our time together and excited to see where it takes you next!

In faith and service, Rev. Kristina Spaude (She/her)

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