As I am writing this in advance of December 1st, I am anticipating my trip to the Antarctica Peninsula and Iguazu Falls at the border of Argentina and Brazil. My Thanksgiving Day dinner may or may not happen on a United Airlines flight returning from Buenos Aires – so not expecting any memorable Thanksgiving feast. But there will be some amazing memories (good or bad) from this adventure. And I’ll be able to say that I’ve visited all 7 continents – my one and only bucket list item! I certainly hope each of you had a lovely Thanksgiving dinner with friends and family.
But although I’ll be gone for most of the month of November, please keep in mind that your Board is ALWAYS working hard to keep OCUUC functioning smoothly while supporting our various programs and services. In the current month, we have been specifically considering:
1) Ongoing support of our new sanctuary construction; the Finance Council is studying the most advantageous way to utilize the $450,000 award from the Spirit Level Foundation. Kudos to the Sanctuary Construction Committee who keep on top of the progress – and to Nancy Loughrey, our VP of Finance, and Jamie Pendarvis, Treasurer, who keep our construction bills paid as they are now rolling in.
2) A proposal from the Animal Ministry concerning food purchased with OCUUC dollars and how we might better support the protection of factory farm animals;
3) Leadership Development both by sup-porting Harvest the Power and promoting UUA’s new leadership modules; and
4) Support for Climate Justice Revival which continues to discuss how OCUUC can implement targeted activities to heighten our congregation’s commitment to positive change.
As we enter December, many of us anticipate numerous holiday celebrations. I would ask that we all keep in mind those who may struggle with these holidays because of lack of family or other obstacles. I’ve always believed that one of the greatest gifts OCUUC provides is a comforting space for everyone to come together and feel connected. Wishing everyone a joyful spirit this month and looking forward to the New Year!
Kathleen McFarlin is Orange Coast Unitarian Universalist Church's Board President.