"Is this GA a success?" It's Saturday afternoon, at a GA feedback workshop for the UUA Board to hear from those attending in Phoenix.
"We don't know yet."
Success is not measured by this General Assembly -- it is measured by what happens when delegates and other attendees go home.
If my congregation, the UU Church of Berkeley, is any indication, the chances are high that the answer will be "yes!". Today's service included stories and powerful word pictures of General Assembly from our co-ministers, a chalice lighting by the 30 people who attended (a river of bright gold), and a follow up "summer forum" put on by the attendees.
"This was my first GA, and I have been changed forever."So it went around the circle of attendees. This congregation of 450 members has 30 people who came back changed. Who are already organizing, contacting local partners, and inviting in others. Who are seeing clearly the connection between justice work and their faith. Who are deepening that faith.
"This is my 16th GA, and I have never felt this way. I am transformed."
"I am outraged at what is being done in the name of my country."
"I cannot unknow what I know. I cannot turn my back. This has changed my life."
Who are hopeful that this time, we can focus and make a difference. And I believe this scenario was going on in hundreds of congregations this morning.
We are not turning back.
Sin volver atrås,
Sin volver atrås.
2 comments:
Thanks Linda. I agree with your assessment. Lots of questions about where can we go from here after the forum.
We here at Lake County followed as best we by could watching the live stream.
I've since talked with other people who attended - It appeared to have been a truly transformational experience .
And, yes - you're right. It's what happens afterwards that's important. If only we could split ourselves into a thousand pieces and get involved with every cause that was important to us...THANKS to all those who took the first step.
Carol
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