NOVEMBER 2024 – BOARD MESSAGE
Greetings, MDUUC members and friends!
As fall is upon us, we are filled with anticipation and sometimes anxiety – the climate change that has had such a huge, tragic impact on several of our Southern states, the Middle East, and the election, all on our hearts and minds. Please turn to each other for support, and please know that our ministerial staff stands ready to provide support as we move through these challenging times. They will be offering space in the sanctuary on November 6th, for an opportunity to express whatever feelings we have and at the very least to be with each other after what has been an incredible journey toward this unprecedented election.
AND LET THERE BE JOY…!
Bid4Love is on November 9th! Those of you who are new to the church have not seen MDUUC on one of its finest, funnest evenings! Those of you who have attended the event over the years, can attest to the fact that UUs know how to play for a good cause! We bid on everything from baskets of books, pottery and jewelry, hand knit scarves and homemade cards (and so much more!) to dinners, high tea, lessons in wine pairing, closet organizing, music concerts, hiking and kayaking, and trips far, far away! If you have a skill, an art or craft or items you can part with, that will become someone else’s treasure, please contact the Bid4Love committee through bid4love@mduuc.org. If you are not sure if something you are considering is “the right thing,” just ask! This year, more than ever, the evening is about joy as we celebrate each other and contribute to this beloved community.
As was discussed at October’s Congregational Forum, your Board is identifying appropriate changes to our Bylaws, in order to streamline our governing process. These changes will be put to a vote at an upcoming Congregational Meeting. Between now and then, we really want to encourage people to not just attend the Forums, but to utilize the opportunity to engage in thoughtful, respectful discussion around the changes we are proposing. We want to express special gratitude to Andy Smith, who has served frequently as our Parliamentarian during meetings over the last few years, for his guidance in this process. As an officiate of the Roberts Rules of Order and as a member of the church, he offers valuable input, given his understanding of the MDUUC community and what changes best apply to our process. Please express your appreciation to Andy when you see him.
Lastly, a community service note. As we are entering the winter, we know the various things that can impact folks – the flu, colds, COVID, RSV, pneumonia. At this point, we are not planning to resume the masking policy we maintained during COVID (adhering to the safety guidelines put forth by Public Health and the state), however, we do want to encourage people to take extra care of themselves during this season. Many hospitals and clinics have resumed some form of their masking policy for patients and staff. Please take care of yourself and help us keep each other safe.
In Faith and Gratitude,
Linda Russell (she/her/hers)
Co-President, MDUUC Board of Trustees