The first hint of autumn is in the air, or at least it was for a few days last week. With cooler temperatures comes the realization that we are entering the fall season at UCG. And while there are always changes – this fall, they include our transition process following Andy’s departure, our experiment with a single worship service, new members, and renewed participation in our Boards and Committees – we have many long-standing traditions by which we mark the season. Which of these do you look forward to? The Halloween Carnival and the Christmas Craft Fair? Celebrating Pride? The opportunity to settle into a comfortable Sunday morning routine? Church on the Prairie? Lingering over coffee in gorgeous Florida fall weather, without sweat dripping down your back? Lessons and Carols, Chili Lunch, the re-invented Christmas pageant? Singing “Silent Night” on Christmas Eve? The list goes on. For me, these traditions provide an anchoring force amidst the currents of change both within our church community and without. Where do you find an anchor that will hold you fast (and, maybe, let go when the time is right)? How do you help anchor others when needed? How can we, as a church, help anchor you?

Jeremy Archer