Greetings, Chalice!

Last month the choir sang a song called “Count Your Blessings”. The message in this song is just what I need right now: a reminder that there are good, beautiful things in life and that taking deep pleasure and joy in those blessings is a blessing in and of itself.

One of the blessings that I “count” is our shared Chalice community. I came to church one recent Sunday with my stomach tied up in knots. It had been that way for some time, even before the election, a constant reminder of the stress I was feeling. But as I sat and sang the hymns, including “Comfort Me”, and listened to Rev. Sharon’s message, I felt my body relax for what seemed like the first time in weeks. I was right where I needed to be. Thank you, Chalice.

And I am truly blessed to be serving as your President and working with such an amazing group of people on the Board of Trustees. We have had some tough conversations the last few months and held each other with respect even when we disagreed. Our Policy Task Force has been hard at work, organizing our policies to make them easier to find and maintain. The Pledge Drive Task Force, a joint venture between the Board and Coordinating Team, will begin meeting soon to plan our pledge drive to support Chalice through our next fiscal year. And a new Engagement Task Force is just getting off the ground. The purpose of this task force is to foster more open communication between the Board and the congregation. More on that in coming months.

As December arrives, I hope you will be able to join our Chalice community in celebration at our annual Winter Party on Saturday, December 7 from 5p to 7p. We will have a potluck followed by some outstanding entertainment. It will be sure to put a smile on your face and bring a joyful spirit to your heart. Look for an email with all the details plus the link to join over zoom in the coming days.

May your days be rich with blessings,

Lara Brown

President, Board of Trustees