Message from the Minister
Hello GUUF!
It’s finally here! My Summer Sabbatical begins next Monday on June 1, with my return set for September 1. The Sunday Services Committee has already filled the calendar with guest and lay speakers that you will find insightful, informative, and inspiring this summer, so there’s no need to even consider staying home on a Sunday. Please keep our community strong and vibrant by continuing to show up for one another – and for new people!
Pastoral care needs will be fulfilled by our Pastoral Care team, with the assistance of a contracted UU minister when needed. If you have any pastoral care needs, please email care@greenvilleuu.org. You may also call the GUUF office, or email office@greenvilleuu.org for a response during office hours. If you have any questions or information that you would typically direct to me, please contact Karen Kniffin, our Office Administrator (email above), who will route your communications to the most appropriate person to address them. Please note that any emails sent to me from June–August will not be read or responded to. If you have something you are excited to share with me, please hold on to it until September 1.
Many of you have asked where I am going this summer, only to find out that I will be in Greenville for much of the time. Here I will be putting down roots and making local connections – something that has been difficult for me while being absorbed in “all things GUUF.” It should be a fun and restorative time. Although I will be keeping a low profile, you may see me at community events, or just bump into me somewhere. If so, I’d be happy to say hello and chat. A silent retreat is not part of my summer plans, and I am not in hiding. I wish all of you a beautiful summer. Even though our world is demanding a lot of attention and resistance right now, please be sure to take time to enjoy all the good things that come with this season – whether it’s swimming, or gardening, or grilling outside. It is taking time for rest and renewal that sustains us for the long haul.
I will miss you all, and I am already looking forward to September!
In faith,
Rev. Chris