We are in unprecedented times. We have been in liminal times together for the last two plus years, and the liminality, the “time in between,” continues. We don’t know if another variant is coming along. We don’t know where new surges will arise. How many of us are ready to meet in-person again? When will children under five be able to be vaccinated?  There are many among us who will continue to view services and meet in small groups online. We are moving into a whole new kind of religious community, one that we don’t quite know what it will look or feel like. Some will continue attending worship online and some congregations are experimenting with having committee and board meetings online to be more inclusive of those who can’t drive at night, or have kids in bed, are immunocompromised, or who are simply more comfortable gathering from home.

We need to stay nimble and ready for changes. And, we need to keep it simple. We’re advising congregational leaders to prioritize “the essentials.” Essentials like worship, small group ministry and family ministry. Essentials like the pledge drive, practicing appreciation and gratitude. And, I think most importantly, growing and maintaining a strong, vital practice of relationships grown with love, compassion, humility and forgiveness.

Two of my esteemed UUA colleagues, Jan Gartner and Lisa Presley, have written a wonderful blog: Less is More: Everyone Needs a Break. I encourage you to check it out.