Tahoma Unitarian Universalist Congregation

The Rev. Heather Lynn Hanson came to Tacoma in August 2008.  She will serve TUUC as interim minister through the 2009-10 church year, while the congregation evaluates its mission, determines it direction for the future, and conducts a search for a new settled minister.

Rev. Hanson says religion is really about recognizing our deep connections with the universe, with people around us, and with the energy force of life, however one may name it.

"Religious ceremonies, worship and education remind us of our connections, while honoring our separate life journeys and individual gifts. The Unitarian Universalist faith is built on a thoughtful and respectful attitude toward others.  A transforming faith builds bridges, not walls. It inspires us to learn more, to serve others, to express our gratitude for all that is our life, and to choose ethical and compassionate ways of being in the world.

"I invite visitors and guests to sample our services and our programs, and to realize the rich variety of opportunities here. We hope that you will discover that this community has the spiritual inspiration, the caring support, and the experiences, both meaningful and joyful, to heal and enrich your life.

Welcome!"

February 11, 2010

The Ministerial Search Committee has been meeting with pre-candidates for our settled minister position. We have reviewed more than 30 initial applications, talked to interested ministers on the phone, talked to references, and are now down to just a few possible choices. Our formal survey was done long ago, and while we've been talking with all of you since then, we want to check in with you to make sure your thoughts and ideas are heard as we wind up this long process. Our pre-candidates are all very well qualified to serve us, and their personal & professional styles vary. We cannot make an offer until March 15, according to UUA guidelines, but that isn't very far away. Once we make a decision, the candidate will be introduced to the congregation and will visit us in the spring for a week. Please share your questions and thoughts with any one of us on the committee: Kate Araujo, Jack Bregger, Dick Coulter, Jennifer Johnston, Lisa Kelley, Helen Sohlberg, & Tony Paulson. Thank you for your continued support!

Our Common Security (A Note of Concern)

by Rev. Heather Lynn Hanson, written March 26, 2009

    As the economic system unwinds and gets reshaped over the once and future months, I'm sure it is affecting most of you, and/or people you care about. Worry over regarding job, spending habits, housing, health care, and other issues are on many minds. We witness news of misjudgment or shortsightedness of agencies, businesses and elected officials as they deal with budgets and policies in the recession, and the news is rarely cheery.

    Rather than give a sermon on what has been inundating the media, I think it more relevant for us at TUUC to create safe space for conversations, informative presentations, and out-of-the-box actions that will support one another through this time. How and when to do that?

    In the spring 2009 issue of *UU World* is a provocative article in the "Forum" titled "Working together to create common security" by Chuck Collins. If you are not a subscriber, you can go on line to http://www.UUA.org, and enter the title in the search box. Beside the article are other related resources. I encourage every TUUC member to read and think about what is presented.

    Including that article, but beyond that, I hope to hear from you about what would be most meaningful and helpful. Is there a need for Common Security Clubs based at TUUC? or sponsored by us or jointly, held in other locations in Pierce County? Are there members who would dedicate time to organizing and facilitating such groups? Would some of you like a workshop on living on less; saving more? or support groups for job seekers? or just an opportunity to talk with me or a support group about the challenges you are facing?

    How can we help one another. And if you have the good fortune not to be challenged personally -- many of us have not been touched directly, so far -- are you ready to tackle the issues at state an local level? After all, as Rev. Carol McKinley has told us, the state budget is a moral statement, a document of priorities. Do you want to link up with others who will be advocating for political decisions that will protect the most vulnerable and rethink the way our governments raise revenue?

    There are so many paths that might be approached. If you email me please put "Common Security " in your subject line, so I will recognize it. And feel free to leave me notes (better than phone messages) if that will be helpful. I am out of the office part of this week, but will respond when I get back.

Namaste,

Heather Lynn

"Be kind to one another. Everyone you meet is struggling in their own battles."