Most Sunday mornings, I attend the Unitarian Universalist Church in Montclair, New Jersey. This church was founded in 1897 by a group of local women who wanted a more accepting and ecumenical place to take their children. They were tired of the traditional churches in their area.
Between 1990 and 1995, it had a membership of over 500. But in keeping with the trend of churches losing members, we also have lost members and now have about 230. Our two co-ministers Rev. Anya and Rev. Scott share an exciting mix of messages and homilies from the pulpit. I truly enjoy their ministry and leadership.
In the middle of the service today, to my surprise, my son, Sam, stood up and joined Markus. He is our music director and plays the piano. In the band area for the singers, Sam accompanied him on the conga drums! I had no idea that he would perform. Markus introduced him as a drummer that the church had recruited from Nigeria!
After church I usually go to the gathering in the lower level of the church, in Fletcher Hall. The gathering is a friendly place where current members and new attendees mix and meet. I always enjoy it. It gets more lively when I met new people, which I especially enjoy if it is their first or second time in our congregation.
Sometimes after church, my daughter, Beth, and I go to the nail place for a fantastic manicure and come home to a delightful afternoon snack.
I’ve enjoyed writing this blog over the years, but I believe I’m getting close to being done.
