I’ve been reminiscing this week, holding in my heart the beauty of our most recent Silent Retreat. It’s now part of the ever-unfolding story of Unity Center for Spiritual Growth — a story filled with sacred moments and deep connections. As I looked back through our history, I discovered that our very first Silent Retreat was held in May of 2013 at Marie Joseph’s. Since then, we’ve gathered year after year in the healing embrace of silence, creating a tradition that continues to nourish our souls.
Alongside our retreats, another beloved tradition at Unity is our Prayer Partners ministry. Since its beginning in 2014, this team has been a steady and loving presence in our community. This past Sunday, we joyfully installed our newest group of Prayer Partners for the coming year. Under the gentle leadership of Barbara Kowalska, we welcome returning partners Jack Cole, Christine Wolf, Jaclyn Ashla, and Mimo Otis — and we’re delighted to welcome Mercer Bonney as the newest member of the team.
These beautiful souls are here to pray with you, whether you’re walking through a difficult time or celebrating a joyful milestone. They are available every Sunday after service, ready to hold sacred space and affirm the truth of your being.
And now, here we are in mid-November — a time I like to call Gratitude Month. This Sunday’s message, “Gratitude as a Gateway to Joy,” was a heartfelt exploration of how gratitude opens us to deeper joy and spiritual connection. We reflected on how gratitude shifts our perception, aligns us with divine flow, and helps us recognize the sacredness in everyday life.
If you missed the service, I invite you to listen here and let the message gently remind you of the joy that lives within you — and the power of gratitude to awaken it.
Join me next Sunday for “The Currency of Kindness: Generosity as Spiritual Practice.”
As we journey through this season together, let’s keep leaning into the sacred rhythm of community. Whether you’re with us in the sanctuary, tuning in from home, or simply holding space in your heart, please know this: You matter here.
Every smile, every prayer, every shared moment adds to the beautiful tapestry we’re weaving together. So let’s keep showing up — with open hearts, clear intentions, and the joy of knowing we’re not walking this path alone. We’re growing, evolving, and creating something truly meaningful — side by side.
You are a blessing in my life,
Rev. Patricia Bessey
