Karen Nowicki, UUCCH Board Member

In the whirlwind of change that has enveloped our lives and the world at large, we, as a congregation, stand at a moment of introspection. The question the board is posing to you today is: “How can we nourish the hunger of all generations for community and spiritual connection in this ever-changing world?” Today, following the service, the Board invites you to share your thoughts about this.

This session is an open question, a process designed for the board of trustees to hear the diverse voices within our congregation. No decisions will be made based on today’s discussions, but this is an invaluable opportunity to collectively gauge where we are in our growth and development.

As I pondered this question, I’m drawn back to my own journey over the past decade with UUCCH. I sought a spiritual home that would allow my personal growth and development, different from the Catholic Church of my upbringing. I yearned for a community aligned with my values and a place to raise future children. Today, I stand before you because UUCCH has not only met but exceeded those aspirations.

This community has been a multigenerational village that embraces and supports my family. Witnessing the growth of my daughter, Sammi, from a bagel-stealing infant during the formerly known as coffee hour to a young girl confidently sharing her favorite magical hippo, Katie, in front of the congregation a few weeks ago embodies the unique magic of this place. Sammi has flourished under the care of a diverse group of adults, each contributing their varied life experiences more than her father and I would be able to do alone. This cross-generational tapestry of care and support is what makes our community special and helps combat the loneliness epidemic as discussed by Dr. Vivek Murthy (MURthee) in his book “Together: The Healing Power of Human Connection in a Sometimes Lonely World”.

While the only constant is change, I hold dear the hope that our multigenerational village within these walls remains a constant. I envision being a future elder that lovingly corrects and guides another child with the same care and concern those here have done for Sammi. She has a whole bonus family of grandparents, aunts, uncles, etc… that watch out for her and help her grow. In a world where I often feel out of sync, this community is a place where I feel valued and secure.

As we collectively explore ways to navigate the transitions ahead, let us build upon the foundation laid by our new covenant where we welcome and communicate with each other, seek a peaceful and constructive solution to conflicts, and work together for the common good. May this community continue to evolve to ensure all individuals feel valued and secure the way I do within our UUCCH community.