Sunday, February 23

Living Love Through the Practice of INCLUSION

10:30 a.m.

 

The primal hunger to belong; the longing to be let in. No one likes standing outside the circle. From the time we are little, inclusion and belonging are what we seek. But to belong is only the beginning. We start by allowing ourselves to be encircled by arms that invite us to be held, to settle in; we give ourselves permission to finally breathe. 
  
But circles – personal, societal — can become closed. Even confining. Homogenizing. And sometimes, once we are let in, we will be called to enlist in the work of keeping others out. And they can keep us small. We only grow when the circle does. 
  
Inclusion, in its fullest form, is about opening doors; it’s also about opening hearts. And heart work requires a willingness to let the struggle and pain of others slowly wash over you until you are turned into something softer, something able to feel the needs of others as your own. 
  
The true blessing of inclusion is not that you get to live inside the circle; it’s that you get to participate in expanding it. As the circle grows, so do we. 
  
Please join us as we explore ideas around inclusion and its intersection with our relationship with Spirit, however Spirit shows up for you. 

Youth ages 13-18 are encouraged to participate in our Circle. Children will be meeting in Union Hall. For children up to age 6: Nursery Care is available.
  
COVID Safety: Masks are optional. Please, if you’re not feeling well, do stay home! Many thanks for your kind consideration.

Facilitated by Nan Rogers:
– Member since 2010
– Hudson MA Red Tent Founder/Facilitator
– UCMH Lay Leader
– Candidate for Interfaith Chaplaincy Ordination through ChIME (Chaplaincy Institute of Maine) 

 
All are welcome to join us following the circle for conversation and light refreshments in Union Hall.