Dear Ones,
Another church year is coming to a close, and Thanksgiving is upon us. We are given the opportunity to reflect upon our lives and give thanks for the blessings bestowed upon us, mixed or otherwise. Even in challenging times, there is gratitude to be had. I don’t express that with Pollyanna irrepressible optimism that finds good in everything.
On Monday I was honored and grateful to participate in the San Mateo County Transgender Day of Remembrance. I offered an apology and a promise of solidarity from the faith community in action that will bring the need for this commemoration to an end. You can see the ceremony here Transgender Day of Remembrance 2023 – YouTube.
I am able to speak authentically, not just as a queer man of faith but because of the work that Island United has done in the past and continues to do. I am able to do that because of the trust you put in me to represent with integrity all that Island United is. I thank you.
This Sunday, we will celebrate Thanksgiving in worship. The end of the Church year is commemorated as the Reign of Christ with Matthew 25:31-46, the separation of sheep and goats. I look forward to seeing you at 10 am on Balclutha or Zoom as we look for kernels of thanksgiving and gratitude in this text of judgment. Invite a friend.
Happy Thanksgiving!
Rev. Michael Cronin
