We move into a new calendar year, century and millennium. But is it safe to say that winter is finally here? I write in December, days are still reaching the 40s, we've still not experienced a real snow. Yet nights are in the 20s, coats have replaced sweaters and jackets. Further, plenty of us have caught change-of-season ailments. I pray that the New Year, century, and millennium will bring with it healing for those who need it and a new impetus for peace and good will, in our city and our world.

As I write, we don't know whether there will be any serious Y2K related problems in our area, city, or state. We all hope not. Yet it is good that the Board saw fit to help our church members be prepared just in case, through distributing Red Cross emergency preparedness brochures. And it is good to know that a small task force is checking with members at potential risk and gathering folks to respond if needed.

In January, The Program Council, the R.E. Council, the Charlotte Lackner Anti-Racism Committee, and the Social Action Council are cooperating to host a joyful Unity Party for us all, young and old, of every race, age, and sexual orientation. Join us as we celebrate our diversity and unity, with good music and wonderful food.

January will also be a time for Fellowship Dinners. Sign up and take time to get to know folks better over a cozy dinner in a member's home. Let us warm ourselves in the cold of winter with dinner candlelight and good food and conversation.

We are all part of a weaving of members and friends, families and individuals who share a sense of belonging to our UU faith community and also part of a larger UU web of life. Thinking further into the spring, it is exciting to realize we will be hosting a continental gathering of Uus for a Just Economic Community, in March. As we approach this important event, we can be thinking about our own present and future ministry, in our neighborhood and city. We can ask ourselves questions, like How do our projects at Grove Parc and the Criminal Justice ministry address concerns of economic and racial justice? Are there other ministries we might take on that would help us live our mission in the world?

In January we will honor the memory of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., a great man who stood preeminently for justice in our nation and world. This month we will also think about the challenges of moving into a new time, as well as the wonders of living in ordinary time.

May the first days, weeks, and months of your new year be filled with health and healing, comfort and joy, meaningful activity and hope, and the tenderness of time with loved ones and friends.

With love and faith,

Nina