Really interesting. The service aas not Christian based. The theme was about the season we are in...outdoors and withing ourselves for those who are in that place. So, it was a MUD holiday. Which is perfect given what we have outside. And ee wete all inveted to celebrate the mud season with mud spread on our foreheads or hands. It was coordinated by all three Ministers.
There was also an intentions and blessings ceremony for welcoming our youngest members ( mostly babies ) into our world. It also came with intentional vow by the church members to guide these children as they need and/or want to become...allowing them to grow without control and expectstions of family and all those that come to intereact with these earthly blessings. Afterward, I spent a fair amount of time speaking to several members about groups that I could join and do outreach work in our community and society. The Ministers and members were very welcoming.....just remember to put yourself out there. They are...
Read moreI was a member for a few years. I wanted to discuss a concern, but my email went unanswered. I tried contacting another staff member. No answer. Then, when I reduced my annual pledge, they reached out to me and wanted to know what was going on. I explained that I really didn't feel as connected to the church, as I was being ignored. Only then did another minister arrange to have a meeting with me.
For reasons I don't understand, the minister started telling me about a very private situation involving something disturbing found on the computer of a staff member's spouse. I'm not sure how that was pertinent to what we were discussing, or why they were only interested in talking to me once I reduced my pledge, but I wound up leaving. This was many years ago, so I doubt the same people are even working there, but the experience was enough to turn me away from...
Read moreMy first time in the first Unitarian church of Rochester NY, modern architecture, dome roof, bare walls, an abstract painting right in front and center, service started with lighting of lamp and ended with flame off. It was a memorial service, of a good and caring friend, it was very sad she passed away, I wouldn't see her, or talk to her, or go out with her, so many memories. It was a very solemn service, found very amazing that such a fine group of family friends, far near, who had all felt her warmth of friendship. The pastor had simple and kind words, family and friends although sad...
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