This past Sunday marked a significant occasion at Unity Center for Spiritual Growth: our Annual Meeting. The turnout was fantastic, and the atmosphere buzzed with energy and excitement among our community members.
We are delighted to announce the return of Michelle Neas and Janice Murphy to the Board of Trustees. Additionally, we extend a warm welcome to Jim Staebler, who joins as a new Alternate Trustee alongside Janice Murphy.
We had numerous reasons to celebrate the achievements made between September 2022 and August 2023. Notably, we successfully raised $10,000 for Giving Tuesday and gathered $5,500 to resurface and reline our parking lot.
In the past year, we introduced two new programs: Hagar’s Well, aiding homeless women and those in shelters with essential feminine products, and the Inreach Program, focusing on supporting community members dealing with illness or significant life events.
Looking ahead, we’re thrilled to announce that solar panels will adorn our roof before the year’s end. We’ve received a quote for the installation and are actively working with a banking institution to secure a low-interest loan for this project. Stay tuned for updates as this endeavor unfolds.
During our recent gathering, a fantastic idea surfaced, courtesy of our beloved Gloria. We’ve established a Facebook group exclusively for our community, called Unity Maine In-Reach, thanks to Christine Wolf’s efforts. If you haven’t already, you may have received an invitation. This platform serves as a space to exchange ideas, seek support, or simply connect with fellow community members.
Additionally, the Unity Women’s Adventure Group will now convene at a new time, from 4:00 – 5:30 pm, this Thursday. Connie Troumbley will lead a beautiful meditation during the session. Feel free to join us if this time suits your schedule.
I’d like to highlight a fascinating class offered by my colleague, Rev. Kelly Isola, titled “Women in the Bible.” Kelly’s teachings are enriching, and I encourage you to register and embark on this learning journey with me.
Save the date for our Thanksgiving Dinner on November 19, a tradition that’s making a return after a few years. We’re fortunate to have Scott Mazer, our AV tech and a skilled chef, preparing the turkey. We kindly request attendees to contribute sides and desserts. Please inform Nancy Burnette of your planned dish; you can find her on Sundays or contact us.
Lastly, if you’re interested in adorning the sanctuary for Christmas, please reach out to me at your earliest convenience. We have an abundance of decorations, allowing you to unleash your creativity. The more volunteers we have, the more spectacular the end result will be. Thank you for your continued support and enthusiasm within our vibrant community!
I have given you so much to digest that I am only going to suggest if you haven’t already watched this past week’s service you could do that now.
The opening story is a true story and if you want to learn more about Tammy Anderson here is her website. To see the full interview where she tells the story, watch this video.
Next Sunday’s talk from Dare To Be Yourself is Dare to Walk Through Fear and Commit.
You are a blessing in my life,
Rev. Patricia Bessey
Labyrinths are ancient geometric figures. One leaves one’s worries and stress at the entrance and walks meditatively to the middle. As one walks to the center she/he becomes centered within her/himself, calmer, and more grounded. 
