Sunday Night

Hi all,

I'm trying out a blog, here. Let me know if you get it and what you think. want to stay in contact will you all, so I'm seeing if a blog is a good way to do it.

Before I start, I want to say that I know there are lots of opinions about Unitarian Universalists out there. They are probably one of the most theologically liberal groups out there. Keep that in mind as you read.

Naomi and I went to a The Unitarian Universalist Church of Montpelier today. Well - I'm not sure they would call it a church. It was definitely a great experience and the people there were more than welcoming. The only thing is, I don't know if Unitarians themselves would call their organization a church.

We sang several songs that were familiar to me. For instance, we sang the tune "Go Now In Peace". As Naomi pointed out, though, all references to God were taken out. Where the song that I remember says "May the love of God surround you", the Unitarians sing "May the spirit of Love surround you". I am not trying to pass judgment. However I was almost surprised that the guest pastor had to almost apologize for using the G-word. Very interesting.

I must give credit to the members of the congregation. They were immensely helpful and very friendly. After the service there was a coffee time where we conversed with various members of the congregation. Several people said that they grew up in more formal church settings, and that the Unitarian worldview drew them in. Others had grown up in the church and always felt welcome within the community. In that way, I suppose it was much like any other denomination - many different people coming together for various reasons, but finding a commonality in what they believe. We have already decided that we probably won't go back, but it was certainly fun to sit in on a religious community doing what they do. Next week, we would like to check out the Mennonite church in Burlington...if it actually exists. So far we have not been able to figure out where it is/if it is still a viable organization.

If you are reading this blog. Thank you! I am trying to work out the kinks in communicating with my family back home in Kansas, as well as my family in Florida and Ohio. If a blog seems like the best way of communicating, I will move forward with this. I know this particular post seems short, but please leave comments if you can figure out how. Once again, thanks for taking interest in my life, and I will try to keep in touch in whatever way works best.

Kevin