From the Heart of Community —
Summer is officially here! We ushered it in with beauty and intention on Friday evening during our Summer Solstice gathering with the lovely Vanessa Gates-Elston. What a gift it was to pause together, breathe deeply, and set intentions for our summer selves.
Just after the solstice, we came together again — this time to celebrate the extraordinary life of Bill Taylor. And truly, it was a celebration. The stories, the laughter, the tears — it all painted a portrait of a life well-lived and deeply loved. I have no doubt Bill was smiling right along with us. If you’d like to watch the service, you’ll find it on our Facebook page, Unity of Greater Portland or YouTube channel, Unity for Spiritual Growth.
And once again, I find myself in awe of this community. When there’s a need, you show up. Thanks to your generosity, we’ve already collected 76 of the 100 bundles of shingles needed for the roof repair. If you feel called to help, bring us across the finish line, each bundle is $50—and every bit makes a difference. Contribute now.
On Sunday, we wrapped up our series Let It Be Easy, and wow — your feedback has been so heartfelt. It’s clear this series struck a deep chord.
This week’s theme was “Take Responsibility for Your Experience”. And here’s what we explored together:
Taking responsibility doesn’t have to feel heavy.
It can be soft.
It can be sacred.
It can be the doorway to freedom.
Let it be easy to admit when something’s not working.
Let it be easy to forgive yourself.
Let it be easy to begin again.
Let it be easy to shift your story—not in denial, but in deep truth.
Your Spiritual Practice This Week:
Gently ask yourself:
· What in my life is inviting me to “come to myself”?
· What patterns am I seeing in the mirror of my experience?
· Where am I being called to return — to Source, to truth, to my own integrity?
And if you find yourself struggling, please remember you are never alone.
We walk this path together.
We take responsibility — not in isolation, but in beloved community.
We walk each other home.
You are a blessing in my life,
Rev. Patricia Bessey
