Seems like just the other day that Rev. Kimberlee took my picture in the snow in front of church on my first Sunday, and now it’s already time for a summery goodbye.
On the off chance that it hasn’t been obvious, please know that I’ve had a fulfilling and enjoyable time serving as your Assistant Sabbatical Minister. What a gift it’s been to return as clergy to the church where I first discovered Unitarian Universalism decades ago. And what a gift to experience my hometown anew through the lens of a friendly, healthy, justice-oriented congregation filled with talented staff and committed members.
As is custom in UU congregations, when a minister departs, I’ll be staying away from First Church for a period of time, so that the church can focus on its relationships with its permanent staff ministers and celebrate Rev. Jennifer’s return.
In the meantime, I’ll be at church two more Sundays — on July 2 to take part in the post-General Assembly panel after worship, and on July 9 to lead worship and enjoy the handshakes, hugs, and cake that will be on offer. The title of my final sermon is “Grace and Gratitude,” which could not be more fitting — I’ve experienced so much grace from you-all, and you’ve made the spiritual practice of gratitude so easy.
So thankful to have shared this season in First Church’s life,
Rev. Jim Foti, Assistant Sabbatical Minister
Farewell coffee hour: Join Rev. Dena, staff, and the sabbatical team at Rev. Jim’s good-bye reception during coffee hour on Sunday, July 9 at 11:00 a.m. (of course, there will be cake!)