I return thanks...

First, slowly but surely I am getting over the CRUD.  Nothing is more human and humbling than being sick and having to slow down.  Second, it was a complete blessing to have my daughters around this weekend; in addition to the jazz gig, we had lots of time to visit, feast, watch British mysteries, go to the cinema AND do yard work. A total gas.

And third, this morning our congregation unanimously voted to become and Open and Affirming congregation in the United Church of Christ. There were two comments during the meeting after worship - both from straight, white guys over 50 - and both were insightful and important. The first, from a retired Methodist clergy person who lamented his own tradition's impasse on sharing the fullness of God's grace with all people, encouraged us to move into this new commitment with courage, faith and tenderness.  The second simply prayed that there come a time when one's sexuality is no longer a part of our public conversation. 

The moderator asked if there was anything more to say... there wasn't.  So she called for the vote and the congregation was unified by God's Spirit to proclaim:

Following the spirit of Jesus, we embrace the diversity of God’s creation. We welcome people of any sexual orientation, gender identity, family structure, race, ethnic or cultural back ground and ability. Everyone is invited to participate fully in the worship and ministry of First Church.

It has been a blessed day - and I return thanks just like Cyndi...