We are less than a week away from the General Election. There is so much at stake. We are experiencing deliberate disinformation, stoking of chaos, and an increasing threat of violence regardless of the results of the election. Here in Missouri, we have Constitutional Amendment 3 on the ballot which would end Missouri’s abortion ban and put in place protections for women and all who can become pregnant. 

It is important for us to come together to nourish ourselves and to anchor in our values and ask ourselves what we are called to be and to do. As a faith community, we have pledged to journey together in good times and in bad. None of us are alone. We have each other. In Unitarian Universalism the sacred/god/dess/spirit of life happens in our relationships. Whenever we gather our mere presence together creates holy ground.

This is just as true for those of you who have just discovered Unitarian Universalism and those of who have been UU for years. Our congregational covenant, that we read every Sunday, provides a pathway for who we want to be, together, on this holy ground. Our sacred covenant asks us to be mindful of each other, to listen to each other and hear each other, to be kinder to each other than we have to be. 

Regardless of the election results, we all need places where we can renew our spirits, anchor afresh in our values, where we can be comforted and reassured that love remains the most powerful force there is. Love is always the answer even when we’re having a hard time offering it, receiving it, or feeling it. We will also be asking ourselves what next. What calls to us now. Where is our service needed? How shall we manifest the love that is at our center?

Rev. Dee and I have planned a special series, “For the Love of Democracy” – three worship services to hold us in our uncertainty, to comfort us, and send us forth to serve justice with love and compassion.

This Sunday, November 3, Rev. Dee will be leaning on Buddhism to help hold our fear and anxiety. She will draw on Unitarian Universalism to center us in love and care. 

On Wednesday, November 6, I will be hosting an informal evening vigil at 6:30 pm where we can offer each other comfort for the results that have broken our hearts and gratitude for results that reflect our core values. If you have bells or drums, you are welcome to bring them.

On Sunday, November 10, we will shift from uncertainty to resilience. Given the results of this general election, what have we learned about our country and what have we learned about ourselves. How is our faith calling on us to respond now? 

We are held together in an interdependent web that is so vast it is beyond our comprehension. Let us draw together, nourish and comfort each other, and turn towards what calls us now.

Yours in faith, hope and resilience,

Rev. Krista Taves