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Minister’s Message
June 2025

Hello Dear Ones,

This is the pride flag we fly year-round at my house. We have replaced it three times. Once, because of strong wind damage, and recently twice, because someone stole it. I like to think that they wanted it for their house, but I doubt that’s true. Our local police encouraged us to put up a camera. They said it is likely two crimes - theft, and also, depending on their motivation, a hate crime.

When I’m out doing yardwork in the front of our house, people passing by on the sidewalk often thank me for the flag and tell me it makes them feel safer in our community.

Mike and I have attended or marched in the St. Pete Pride Parade every year since we moved here in 2007, so I was thrilled to find out that our congregation, along with UU Clearwater and UU St. Pete, support Family Pride Day and Parade Day.

The parade is part of the largest Pride Festival in Florida. We will be among hundreds of thousands of marchers, attendees, and supporters celebrating the strength, diversity, and vibrancy of the LGBTQIA+ community.

Our congregation’s “Rainbow Welcome Circle” is already getting out the word and asking for our donations of time, talent, and treasure. (Gotta pay for the float and buy that candy and those beads!)

Join us! This year we really need to SHOW UP!

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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