I remember many years ago, my son “encouraged” me to bungie jump.  They put me in a vest, and a crane pulled us high in the air.  As I got higher and higher in the air all I could think of was “why in the world did I agree to this and how do I get down”  The most insidious part of the event was that once we reached the very top I had to pull the cord that would release us.  I wondered if I never pulled the cord, how long they would keep us up at the top dangling in midair.  As I dallied around high above the ground, I heard in the speaker above me someone with a German accent telling me to pull the cord, everything would be all right.  For some reason with my bias of feeling secure in Germany’s engineering prowess, I pulled the cord.  Everything after that happened very quickly.  I didn’t have time to wonder if I was going to die, I only experienced the joy of what it felt like to fly.  It was an exhilarating, wonderful feeling.  And then I came back to earth slowly.

Now I am not suggesting that you become a thrill seeker.  However I do ask you to think about what are the things that are preventing you from reaching your full potential in life?  What are the things in life that we can let go of that are holding us back?  Do we have grudges that we have held onto for too long? Have we had beliefs, biases or habits that we have held on to for too long?  Is there something we fear that prevents us from trying new things?  Sometimes it just takes one split second decision to change our world.  To pull the cord, or change our mind, or take an action. And if we do let go, we can feel an exhilarating wonderful feeling of freedom, possibility and hope. Just finding the courage to take that step forward can help us feel grounded in who we are. So I ask you to consider letting go of what holds you back, and find your true, whole self. 

With a grateful heart,

Rev. Jay

What a week it has been. Many of you have checked in. Most in Sarasota have power back, although many are still lacking internet. If we have not heard from you and you need assistance,  (or if you know of a member who does, since they might not be able to read this message) please let us know.

My heart goes out to all affected by the storm.

As of writing this note, the Church does not have power.

We are still planning on having service Sunday at 10:45am in the Sanctuary.

We feel it is important for us to gather as a community after many in Florida experienced traumatic events. During service, we will have a time for small group sharing.

I have confirmed our musical guest “Passerine” will be performing in the service.

Please dress accordingly knowing that it will be warmer than usual in the Sanctuary. We will be opening the slider doors to help circulate the air.  

If for any reason you do not feel it is safe for you to travel,  please stay home.  I have recorded the sermon and intend to post it Sunday afternoon on YouTube. There will be no Forum (either in person or on Zoom) this Sunday.

I want to thank all the volunteers who showed up Saturday morning to remove the debris from the Church grounds so it would be safe for people to walk through the passageways leading to the sanctuary.  The Children’s playground will not be accessible due to downed tree limbs. 

My primary concern is for the safety of our members. If you feel it is safe, we would love to see you. If not, then we will see you soon. Again, if you need help, please do not hesitate to ask.

With a grateful heart,
Rev. Jay