Have You Ever?

Have you ever read an article that spoke to you but now you have forgotten where you read it?  That has happened to me.  The article probably was in an issue of our UUA magazine, something I saw on the internet or in a book that we have read in one of our small group ministries.

Regardless of where it appeared, the essence of the article asked whether we need fear of the devil and hell in order to retain good morals and behavior.  The author postulated that our need to form alliances and groups to survive during our long evolution and our learning from family and teachers are what really moderate our behavior and keep us civilized.  I agree.  It is for that reason that I am resolving in this new year to increase my support of Piedmont UU Church which provides resources for our RE program and our minister Robin Tanner.  The adult RE class called “Age-ing to Sage-ing” has just started.

Your Board is also active in keeping Piedmont UU Church strong by its recent decisions.  We have reached out to a wider community by accepting the Piedmont Progressive Preschool as a sponsored group under our bylaws.  They teach children the same principles and morals that are the foundation of Unitarian Universalism.  The Board is in the process of reviewing the policies under which your church operates.  We have created a Healthy Congregation Team to help us remain united as we grow and make important decisions for our future.  We have welcomed Justin Martin who is our new Director of Religious Education and Pastoral Care Minister.  Have you noticed how many more youth are seen in the halls and on the grounds since he came to us?  

Another thing that will make 2014 a great year is the creativity and responsibility that all of the councils and committees have undertaken as we grow in numbers and budget.  As we get bigger, it will be impossible for the Board to make the many day to day decisions that are required to keep Piedmont UU Church running smoothly.  The Board will retain final responsibility by way of the budget and the policies that guide the work of councils and committees.  As currently organized, the Business and Operations Council and the Program Council are the paths through which the Board fulfills its responsibility for oversight.

In summary, I know that 2014 will bring challenges and opportunities but with your help, we are ready to turn them into progress. 

Happy New Year to you-all and may you and Piedmont UU Church have a fruitful and healthy 2014.

Serving you as your Board president,   

Karl Hesse