Dear FUUSN Community,

It was wonderful to spend the October 6th-8th weekend at Ferry Beach with a number of FUUSN families and congregants. Among the many highlights were button making, sharing meals, a protest walk, sing songs, s’mores, sand castles, and our multigenerational service. These moments spent together outside the congregational walls are very significant and offer expanded opportunities for play, conversation, connection, and fun! Opportunities for growing connections across the generations were abundant throughout the weekend.

I enjoyed leading the Sunday morning service with the help of Bob McWilliams, Neil Klineman, and others. We explored the October theme of Power, specifically the power of being together in nature. Bob introduced the song “Gentle Arms of Eden” by Dave Carter and Tracy Grammer. Many felt moved by the song and it’s Chorus:

“This is my home, this is my only home                                                                                                                                                                                           This is the only sacred ground that I have ever know                                                                                                                                                                   And should I stray in the dark night alone                                                                                                                                                                                   Rock me Goddess in the gentle arms of Eden”

I enjoyed witnessing the leadership of the young people over the weekend. Some took the initiative by setting up a space to draw and move during the worship service, while others helped tell the story and added their voices in song. Another enthusiastic group helped make name buttons for congregants so we could more easily welcome each other and feel welcomed throughout the weekend.

I hope we will continue to find opportunities like the ones afforded us at Ferry Beach, to connect across the generations and create community that feels like an extension of family at FUUSN!                                                                                                                                                                       -Amanda Graff