Greetings, Zion’s Siblings in Christ!

Recently, I opened my email to a devotion inviting folks to be porous this summer. Not filled with projects or constantly preparing for what comes next, but instead making space to receive the gift of creation by breathing fresh air, doing creative things we enjoy, and spending time in places and spaces that give us life.

As volunteers, caregivers, leaders in the church, and caretakers within our families, we spend so much of our lives preparing, providing, and giving. It is necessary, too, to remain open to simply being. To become a little more emotionally open to surprise and noticing what is already here. Sometimes joy arrives quietly — at the kitchen sink, in the gathering area after everyone has gone home, or while sitting at a table taking a brief pause from the demands of life.

These are exciting days in the life of our church as we celebrate 200 years of serving our neighbors and sharing the love of Christ in this community. This summer will offer many opportunities to gather, learn, listen, and enjoy time together. John Bond will join us to share reflections on the Bible in art. We will celebrate Christmas in July. The Chanters will offer a concert in August. Friends will help us revisit the rich history of Zion’s Union, giving us opportunities to remember, reconnect, and delight in the goodness of being together.

We are God’s beloved ones. And as we care for others, may we also spend intentional time in our gardens, walking in the woods, sharing familiar conversations at a park or zoo, and lingering among the places and people who bring us joy and remind us of God’s goodness.
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May it be so. 
In Christian love, 
Pastor Melissa