Minister's Column for March 2010
Sunday attendance is up by 10 folks every week since last August, and RE is holding its own. We are growing both in numbers and depth, which, if sustained, will enable Tapestry truly to "nurture our spirits while healing the world."
Since August, I can sense a palpable pride throughout our premises on Sundays. Obrero Drive literally shakes with enthusiasm. Folks hanker to see fellow Tapestrians, coming every Sunday specifically to be challenged and comforted.
Worshipping together is the "prime time" to stretch our minds, feed our souls, and nudge our consciences. We may be moved by a phrase, or a melodic refrain, or a moment of stillness, or an embrace, or some marching orders for living a more loving life. Whatever the gift may be, we simply leave with fresh energy and resolve. Worship is a Sunday morning well spent!
If life at Tapestry is contributing to shaping a better and bolder you, then I hope you'll spread the news, invite a friend, offer a ride.
On Sunday, March 7th we will be welcoming new members into our religious family. Whether you're already a member or one-in-waiting, I exhort you to be present to welcome those choosing to "pledge their troth" (an old-fashioned phrase that combines both truthfulness and trust) to Tapestry.
We are moving as well. We owe a huge debt especially to Lynn Cowan and Jon Eckardt (and President Connie Pursell as well) for their diligent work (hundreds of volunteer hours) on behalf of Tapestry in securing our new site. It looks like we will hold our farewell service sometime in late May and conduct our ingathering worship on Madero in early June. Hip-hip-hooray, hallelujah, cheers!
As we navigate this delightful yet complex move to a fresh site, may we pledge to practice the highest principles of our faith—showing deep respect and working collaboratively at every turn.
A Zen mantra seems fitting at this juncture in Tapestry's history: "hasten slowly." We need to plod on purpose, moving forward in a measured but not pressured way: whether we're decorating the walls, purchasing chairs, setting up the new rooms, appointing the sanctuary with creative art, or welcoming visitors. We will make our share of mistakes, but may our mistakes be ones of clumsy kindness. May the navigation of this move show ourselves and the neighborhood what it truly means to "stand on the side of love."
March is packed (good word to use, right!), starting with our 100-Family Garage Sale on March 13th. I've already located boxes worth of "stuff," how about you? Carol Semelroth, Mark Fox, and their conscientious cohorts are coordinating what should be a fun-and-fund raiser deluxe. And then on Saturday, March 20 is our glorious Spring Auction, not to be missed. I can't wait to open my heart and wallet for this one.
Tapestry needs you, right now, to participate actively in the springtime of our ripening ministry. We're a full-fledged cooperative: almost entirely composed, run, and sustained by you, our valiant volunteers. The combined effort of all our souls and soles is required to make Tapestry a vital spiritual option and social presence in South Orange County.
As our youth might say: "Hey, be there or be square!"
In faith, hope, and love…
Tom Owen-Towle
