A seed fears light nor darkness, but uses both to grow. ~ Matshona Dhliwayo

Greetings Dear Members and Friends,

It is my joy to connect with you as part of the community we and others find solace in and a haven during these challenging times. Our country is in the midst of chaotic and unprecedented change and we have an opportunity to come together as a caring community in new ways, right now.

If you would like to DO something right now here are three ways to make a difference through your relationship with ERUUF:

Connect with the work of our Justice Ministry Action Groups here at ERUUF by reaching out to Kaleb Graves, Justice Coordinator.

Attend the weekly online Friday Action Hour of UU Justice NC, the statewide coalition of UU Congregations working with justice partners in NC who are aligned with our UU values and doing transformative work in our state.

See the important message that follows:

During a recent Sunday service, we explored, “What would you most want to create in the world your heart knows is possible?” Nearly 400 of our adults, children, and youth cast a vision that consisted of nearly 250 unique intentions; heart-filled desires like Peace, Justice, Equity, Green, Compassion, Acceptance, Harmony, Truth, Hope, Love. And yes, there were crocodiles and ponies, too. The collective responses were so inspiring they have served as seeds for the co-created logo of our 2025-26 Pledge Drive.

When we know something is possible within our hearts we are called to act upon it; otherwise, what is the point in knowing?

As we launch the Pledge Drive for the Operating Budget of ERUUF’s 2025-2026 Fiscal Year, I invite us all into action as we Plant Seeds Now To Create the World Our Hearts Know Is Possible.

I’m talking about collective futures made real at ERUUF, a haven, and community of belonging, all 1270 members, friends, children, and youth. Made real for people now and generations to come. Seeds that bring to life:

• Compassion and Hope that allow us to expand our support for individual and collective pastoral concerns as we continue to be radical in our welcome and face the uncertainty of these times.
• Community and Resources for the staffing needed in a vibrant congregation with a bold vision; a staff that receives fair and equitable compensation.
• Justice and Equity as we work with community partners to support people who are most vulnerable:
  • Migrant and refugee communities
  • LGBTQ+ communities
  • Black and brown communities
  • Communities experiencing food, employment, and housing insecurity
• Peace and Truth as we increase our awareness and engagement in actions that support Democracy and peacemaking.
• Regeneration and Resilience so we can live into our ongoing commitments as a Green Sanctuary Congregation, and deepen our collaboration with community groups focused on Earth and environmental justice.

The future we aspire to is created in this moment. Your generous financial pledge allows us to plant seeds now, that, together we’ll nurture through these times.

May we all work to focus our resources, energy, and hearts on sustaining this community and creating the world we know is possible.

In faith and hope, with love and courage,

 

 

Rev. Jacqueline Brett
Lead Minister