This page was updated 04/01/2008

On this page, what you'll read are Chalice Lightings from various members of our congregation.  A Chalice Lighting happens during our service.  It is a time for reflection on what our purpose is.  During some of the Sunday morning services in 1998 and 1999, we had members write short readings about their reasons for coming to this congregation and its meaning to them.  We offer them here as a human way to connect, perhaps explaining why you might find a home with us at our Meetinghouse.
The Chalice Lightings will change every other month.

          When I first came to the Unitarian Universalist Congregation,, Stephanie was a toddler.  She turned fourteen this year.  I had been searching for a spiritual community since my decision that Catholicism was not for me.  I was searching for my own answers and needed a space that would allow that kind of individualism.  I was drawn here by Dick and Ruth Langhinrichs, whom I had met through a class in communication for couples.  I knew nothing about Unitarians or Universalists - Catholics don't teach children about other religions.  I was looking for a place of caring people where I could continue my spiritual growth and foster the knowledge and growth of my children.  Dick and the other members of the congregation were very accepting and understood my search for truth and the need for my individual spiritual path.  It took me some time to realize that to get to know these people, I needed to work alongside them.

          I have many memories of you through recycling, the RE committee, serving on the Board, teaching your children, going to plays together, learning to journal, washing walls, making soup, asking for pledges, helping with plays and pageants, singing, playing, and eating.  I won't say there have not been “times of trouble.”  At one point, I considered leaving, but my sister asked me why I had chosen this community, and my answer made it clear to me that there is no other spiritual community like this one,

Contributed by Dee Koehl, June 7, 1998

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