It’s been almost eight years since the first gathering called Spiritual Soul Center. In July of 2017, fifty-nine folks showed up to help me launch this idea. We met every week at 5pm at the Unitarian Universalist church until Covid disrupted the world.
From March of 2020 until January of 2022, Renee and I provided virtual messages. Fran Lucas and I kept our once-a-month service projects going. Both our music director Kay and youth ed director Holly published a few videos along the way. Maggie started sending out our newsletter every week rather than once per quarter as we had been doing up to this point. We met in-person a few times in the park but otherwise we had limited contact. It was not easy being isolated. We all learned that!
We returned after Covid to UU in January 2022. It was a slow re-start. Our move to Winston Boulevard happened on August 7, 2022. This new space, and the change to Sunday morning gatherings, created a shift in our energy. We had a home and we started to expand as a community in a way we had not yet experienced. It has been amazing and humbling, joyful and sometimes stressful. Always, it has been a journey I am proud of. Who knows where we will go from here?
So, now is a good time for me to take a break…and for Renee to do the same. I will be on sabbatical the entire month of April. You will hear guest speakers on Sundays and enjoy our talented and committed musicians as well. Our ministry teams are strong and will serve you as they always do. Megan and our Board members will keep the energy moving on Sunday. I am extremely grateful and proud to leave Soul Center in so many capable hands.
On Sunday, March 30th our youth will join me in presenting a message. They will also participate with Wendy to present our music. It will be a really special Sunday. I hope you’ll be there.
Thank you, always, for your love and support.
With great humility
Paula
