January 2011 - "A New Year" by Rev. Allison Farnum

The New Year of 2011 is particularly auspicious for UUCFM as we celebrate for a full-year the 50th anniversary of this congregation.  This church received its charter from the newly formed Unitarian Universalist Association in summer of 1961.  For fifty years the UUCFM has been a liberal religious voice and Lee County, and there is no stopping us now!  Get ready for fun times- all year long! I am honored to be with you on this part of your journey as a congregation.  In this year-long celebration, let us remember those who have served and supported this congregation and make space for those who have not yet joined us who need this liberal religious community.

I wish you a prosperous New Year, one in which you might find hope and joy, and in times of sorrow, find solace in this congregation.  As we look ahead to more decades in Lee County, let these words awaken new vision:

Dedicated to freedom, equality, and dignity, we covenant together and commit ourselves to accept our diversities and seek harmony where there is discord, support one another and nourish healthy, just and equitable relationships.  We further agree to share in the continuing work of articulating our beliefs and values and to devote our time, talent and resources to whatever the tasks require.  We seek to develop the trust and love that will enrich and strengthen us all as members of the Unitarian Universalist Church of Fort Myers and members of the Unitarian Universalist Association.

May you enter this covenant freely in the spirit of the good will.  Join us!