We have yet to find a real ‘cottage’ in Northfield , but reminiscent of a relaxed summer at the lake, one group has already met, outdoors on a deck, and 3 more are planned for August.

Our first one was a real success–just the right number of people:  11 plus Sandy and 2 hosting Woehrlins. We had a combination of “oldtimers” plus very committed relative newcomers and 3 very new attenders. We used “What is your church history and how have you arrived at First UCC?” as the question for the circle which led to an interesting focus for two new parents (different families) had rejected the Catholic Church because they had a lesbian daughter and were looking for a welcoming congregation.  Two other sets of parents present had gay children, so we had a very interesting conversation on that subject.  Sandy shined, as usual, told a lot about herself, the process of her coming out to the congregation and some history of ‘open and affirming’ in the denomination.  At that time the focus was on peace and justice and equality issues not the ‘moral’ issue that the national debate has evolved into.  A lot of honesty was present.

 Next meetings with Pastor Sandy:

§ Saturday August 2^nd, 9:30-11:00 a.m. at the home of Matt and Sarah Forster (408 E. 2^nd St.) Childcare available.  Reservations with number and age of children especially important! 

§ Tuesday August 5^th, 3:00 p.m. at the home of Liz and Jerry Hankins (2004 Park Pointe Court)

§ Tuesday August 19^th, 7:00 p.m. at the home of Bobbie Peterson  (514 Union Street - Bobbie has recently moved to the home her Jacobson grandparents lived in)

Alas, the Fighting Saints baseball game gathering didn’t work out because of scheduling conflicts…another summer!