“The greatness of a community is most accurately measured by the compassionate actions of its members” ~ Coretta Scott King
During the welcome of almost every Sunday Service, the words “…we are a caring community…” are used. And we are – the UUFP is a community of people who care deeply about the individuals, property and issues that define the community. This was very clearly seen last month by the number of individuals who came out on a beautiful Saturday morning to perform labors of love that helped to beautify our buildings and grounds both inside and outside. A heartfelt thank you goes out to all who participated with a special thank you to Maddie and Sam Barnthouse who did an amazing job cleaning the wooden bench on the side of the building.
We have also seen acts of compassion towards our members and friends. There are those who donate their time to give rides to Sunday Services to members who no longer drive. There are those who create cards for our community to sign to help celebrate the joys and acknowledge the sorrows going on in someone’s life. There are those who give their time and talent to create goodies for our coffee hour – and let us not forget those who show up early on Sundays to start the coffee that will go with those goodies. So, acting compassionately is not new to the UUFP community.
Now it is time to add more acts of compassion and caring. On October 3, Sunday Services will move indoors for the first time in over 18 months. While we cannot create a COVID-19-free environment, we can do our best to create a COVID-19-safe environment. The health and safety of all who enter our buildings is of primary concern. So, there will be actions that the Board of Directors will be asking those who attend in person to take. They are:
• Masks will be required while in the building. This also includes the children who attend. If you have a medical condition that precludes you from wearing a mask, please let a board member know.
• Seating within the sanctuary will be set up so that people will be socially distanced.
• Only one person/family should use the restroom at a time.
• Coffee hour will take place outside (weather permitting).
• If you are not feeling well, please stay home and join us for Sunday Service via technology.
• Anyone leading RE classes or working closely with the children, will need to show proof of immunization as well as to wear a mask.
Now a word on immunizations. The Board of Directors has the expectation that anyone for whom the COVID-19 vaccine is indicated for has been immunized. There are those within our community who currently are not vaccinated (children and those with medical conditions where the vaccine is contraindicated). The biggest act of compassion and caring that anyone can show to the greater UUFP community is to be immunized to protect not only yourself but the members and friends of the fellowship.
Finally, if you still choose to not to join us indoors, remember, we will always be simultaneously sharing our services via technology and posting them to our YouTube channel (if you prefer to watch them later). There are now so many ways to participate with and be a part of our caring UUFP Community.
In gratitude, Linda K.