Falling into Place

The energy in our community is real — and it’s fueled by so many of you stepping up. At our community meeting last Sunday, we acknowledged how far we’ve come and looked toward what’s next.

Over the past seven months, our focus on rebuilding and stabilizing is opening the channel for growth — including the possibility of bringing staff on again. The Core Council does much of the behind-the-scenes work that helps create both stability and momentum, and I wanted to make that visible. At the same time, this is a shared effort. Every act of service — from making coffee to supporting building projects — strengthens who we are together.

Rev. Michael highlighted the progress we’ve made and reminded us we’re creating the conditions that will shape what’s ahead. That outcome depends on all of us — the input we offer, the resources we contribute, and the choices we make together. Thank you to everyone who raised a hand to help in ways large and small.

I also shared an overview of our marketing plan — an evolving work in progress. One emphasis: word of mouth is still our most powerful form of outreach. A couple of examples:

• Rev. Larry’s “friend-raising” — inviting people to experience who we are. If Sundays feel like too big a step, consider inviting a friend to another event like a movie, open mic, or something else. Stay tuned for an upcoming session on how to invite your friends.

• Kim Kerrigan, who chats with passersby while tending our garden, opening conversations about who we are and what we do.

How do we build on these?

Some of you have asked why I put energy into Meaningful Movies. For me, it’s both spiritual and social justice work. The films and discussions inform, connect, and bring new people through our doors. Partnerships also make us stronger. I’m happy to renew our collaboration with Sustainable Ballard, and I’d love to explore more opportunities like it.

Music is another area where partnership could open doors. Our Music Director, Amanda Byrd, shared that our choir doesn’t currently have the participation to sustain it. More voices stepping up could change that — and connecting with local choirs might, too. Please share your ideas or express your interest. Whether through movies or music, partnerships broaden what we can offer and invite new voices to join us.

In his talk last Sunday, Rev. Gary said everything begins with vision. When I imagine ours, I know we’re a vibrant, fluid, energetic, and magnetic community. We are that — and as we continue to grow, every new voice adds to what we’re already building together, one present moment at a time.

Thank you for being here.