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Sometimes to go forward, you have to go back…

This Spring, many folks at UUSGS noticed a happy recurrence: the sanctuary was full on many Sundays.  This should feel joyful and affirming… but also a bit problematic.

There is an old saying in church-y work: if the sanctuary is 80% full, it will feel “too full” to new people.  Put plainly, if we want to grow — if we want to welcome people who are looking for a loving open-minded spiritual home — then we need to make room.

The UUSGS capital campaign, which has now evolved over a pandemic, began as strategic planning in 2019 to make room for growth.  We were growing then (while offering two services), and we needed more room.

That was then.  Then came a pandemic.  And now, here we are.  When our doors opened again to in-person activity, we went back to offering one service only on Sundays.  But we now see the need to re-add a second service.  This is happy news!  But it does require some adjustment…

Beginning October 5th, we will offer two services every Sunday: one at 9:30AM and one at 11AM.  These services will be very similar, with one notable difference.  We’re going to try the first service without our screen and with no online component.  Think of it like “analog church,” for folks who like the idea of unplugging during that time.  The sanctuary screen and online participation will remain during the 11AM service.

Other than that distinction, both services will feature the same messages, music, rituals, etc.  Our Worship Associates program will relaunch this Fall with clarified roles and expectations.  (Beacons, too!)  And we’re exploring an all-ages, story-based service for fourth Sundays.  Between the services will be social time; refreshments will be out after the 11AM, as well.

Some will likely hear this news as unwanted change.  But this is the good kind of change, the kind that makes room for new possiblities, new opportunities for connection and service and impact.

I have a saying I like that you may have heard me say before, though it may have been a while: growth happens when we’re doing “church” well.  We don’t have to chase growth, but we do need to make room when people want to be here.  Hospitality, welcoming the stranger… these are ancient and deep values.  In today’s society, there are many people who are looking for a a community of open minds and shared values... a place of authenticity, of relevance, and of resilience.  We offer that, and then some.  We would be crazy to just allow the sign at the door to read “no room here.”  (There’s a story about that, I think…)

As with everything, we move forward today with hope and with good planning… and also with a sense of experimentation.  “Throw it at the wall and see if it sticks,” right?  Please be in touch with leadership as we move forward together.  If you see something that isn’t working — of something that is! — or (our favorite) if you see a way that you can help… let us know!

By the way, if you’re interested in major religious trends since the pandemic (as I am), here are a few resources.  I’m always happy to hear your thoughts.