Good News Jan/Feb 2009 Page 2

"Should I stay or should I go?"
By Rev. Kathleen Rolenz

When I was in college, I used to listen to "The Clash," and one of their iconic songs was "Should I stay or should I go now?"  As I sat down to write this column, that's the song that rang in my head, because of what I've been hearing from you out there in cyberspace.  I'm receiving your emails and in some cases, I've called you to hear about what's going on with your life as a Christian in Unitarian Universalism.  Let me tell you what I've heard so far:

• One of you wonders if there is a place for you as a Christian in Unitarian Universalism, because your church community is indifferent at best, or hostile at worst, to your Christian identity;
• One of you is lonely because there are no UU Christians in your area and you want to engage with your Christian faith with other Unitarian Universalists;
• One of you has formally left not only the UUCF but Unitarian Universalism, finding it a spiritual desert for your needs
• One of you feels deeply connected to the UUCF and has made a significant financial gift to the institution out of gratitude for its very existence;
• Two of you are wondering what you can do with and for the UUCF

I am so grateful for those of you who have chosen to write or call me to tell me a little bit about your story--and about where you are on the Christian journey.  Your stories are both heart-breaking and hopeful, as you attempt to remain in this faith tradition and stay connected to the Unitarian Universalist Christian Fellowship.  By and large, the response has been that people are reluctant to leave Unitarian Universalism and want to remain connected to this particular faith tradition and this particular way of being a Christian.

Please know that the Unitarian Universalist Christian Fellowship is here to support and nurture your faith development.  I see the work of the UUCF as helping one another develop a deeper relationship with God and with Christ.  Although we don't have a physical building, we have an active and engaged community through the web, through small groups and through our regular gatherings at General Assembly and Revival.  In between the times of physical gatherings, what can you do to address some of the feelings of discomfort or isolation as a result of being a UU Christian?

First--reach out and ask for help.  Call me or call Executive Director Ron Robinson for some guidance or coaching about how to be a Christian presence in your congregation.  It helps to talk about it with the hope of building that beloved community--that is, attempting to connect with others who may have been wounded or, indeed, scarred by their Christian past.   If you find you are in an area with no other UU Christians, let us know.  We might be able to connecct you with others, or, help you find an online community that could be a source of strength and comfort.  Don't forget to visit the website regularly.  It is updated regularly, and we now have what we call a "virtual monastery" online, which provides an opportunity for daily meditation, reflection and prayer.

Second--don't forget to pray.  Jesus said:. . . and pray for those who persecute you"  Prayer has helped me to see how I have been part of the dynamic.  Prayer has softened my heart towards those who were initially wary or even hostile to my Christian faith.  Prayer has helped me to understand and by so doing, in turn, have been understood.

Finally--partner with other members of the UUCF.  There is no better way to connect with other UU Christians than to engage oneself with the tasks at hand.  Working on Revival together, or staffing the booth at GA, or submitting an article for the Good News--these are ways that others can get to know you--and you them. 

It is an honor and privilege to serve as your President, and I continue to be grateful to be walking this faith journey with you. 

Blessings on the New Year,

Kathleen Rolenz

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