Community Connections & Gratitude
Let’s start with a big shout-out to Jen Deraspe for bringing us the joy of Laughter Yoga! What a beautiful evening of laughter, lightness, and most importantly connection. If you missed it, don’t worry, another session is coming in November, and you won’t want to miss it. Keep an eye out and be sure to register!
Annual Meeting Highlights
A heartfelt thank you to everyone who showed up for our Annual Meeting on Sunday — the turnout was fantastic! We shared meaningful conversations, celebrated our community, and welcomed new leadership.
We said a warm thank-you and goodbye to Kim Cowperthwaite and Michelle Neas as they completed their time on the Board. And we’re thrilled to welcome our new board members for 2025–2026: Matt Purinton, Barbara Kowlaska, Carolyn Sanford, Nancy Sawyer, and Randy Sweeting. We’re so grateful for your willingness to serve!
Potluck Sundays — Growing Together
One of the highlights from our “What’s Working Well” discussion was the shift from one to two potlucks each month now happening on the first and third Sundays. These gatherings are such a beautiful way for us to connect, share stories, and build deeper relationships.
Of course, with more potlucks comes a little more behind-the-scenes work. Right now, Nancy Burnette and Nancy Sawyer have been generously handling set-up and cleanup and we’re so grateful! But it’s time to share the love.
We’re forming a Potluck Team, and we’d love your help!
Here’s what we’re looking for:
2 people to help with setup
2 people to help with cleanup
…for each potluck Sunday.
This can be two different teams if enough people step forward (both women and men are welcome).
If you feel called to help even just once a month, please reach out to me directly. Your helping hands will make a big difference!
Nancy and Nancy will continue to care for our second and fourth Sundays with coffee and connection, so let’s support them by stepping in for the potluck Sundays.
From the message on Sunday: There are moments in life when we feel a subtle stirring, a quiet nudge from within. It may not come with clarity, but it carries an invitation: Something new is seeking expression through us.
This was the powerful message on Sunday that reminded us that prayer is not just about asking; it’s about aligning. It’s about becoming a channel for divine creativity and allowing Spirit to move through us in inspired and authentic ways.
Key Takeaways from the message:
- Prayer as Creative Energy: Prayer is a living force a way to shape reality through divine alignment.
- Beyond Petition: True prayer affirms what already is, rather than pleading for what is not.
- Soul’s Language: Prayer is expressed through silence, journaling, movement, and presence.
- Imagination as a Sacred Tool: Visualizing divine ideas brings them to life.
- Inspired Action: Even the smallest step (a phone call, a sketch, a conversation) activates the flow of Spirit.
- Unity Principle: As Myrtle Fillmore said, “We do not have to wait for God to act. God acts through us.”
A Practice for Creative Prayer:
- Declare Openness: “I am a channel of divine ideas. I am open and receptive.”
- Listen Deeply: Create space for silence, journaling, walking, or meditation.
- Affirm the Unfolding: “Divine order is at work. I trust the process.”
- Take Inspired Action: Follow the nudge however small and let Spirit lead.
Reflection Invitation:
Have you ever felt a quiet nudge from within?
How did you respond?
What helped you stay open and aligned?
What unfolded as a result?
Let this be your reminder: Spirit is always seeking to express through you — not in grand gestures, but in the quiet, faithful listening of your heart.
“I am a channel of divine creativity. I am open, receptive, and ready. I listen with faith. I act with courage. I am the prayer. My life is the answer.”
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
