As a teenager, I attended Emanuel Synagogue services every Friday night. My only living parent, my mom, was not religious. She never went to services and didn't belong to the synagogue. She paid no money for the support of the congregation's life. There was never money collected on the sabbath, so I never paid any either, and I never connected the idea of religion with money. I received a great deal from that congregation during my high school years--spiritual inspiration, education, friendship and the joy of community. I sang in the youth choir. That, and the giving of my time, energy, and enthusiasm, were my sole contributions.

When I first became a Unitarian Universalist, in Hartford, Connecticut, there was still no Sunday morning offering there. The UU community in Hartford saved my life in some ways. I entered there in great need, and I found there a religious home, a place that accepted me fully, a people among whom I could grow, and a congregation which became a channel for me of love and commitment to the world. While there was no offering plate, there was a pledge campaign. Although I was a welfare mom at the time, I gave what I could, and felt good about being able to help in a small way to support the life of that church. I could give something back for the wonderful gifts I received.

A colleague recently wrote in his column about our so-called "free faith." He recalled for me the origins of contributing for the support of church. When the government establishment of religion ended, church goers became responsible for the support of religious life. The cost of freedom of religion is that we all share in maintaining, sustaining, and growing our faith community.

We are all part of this community which gives so much to us and to which so many of us give money, time, energy, love, and devotion. This community is both a spiritual home and a place for fellowship with others. It, and we, through it, care for our children, ourselves, and the larger community. Through our many contributions, we can sustain and grow our faith. We are responsible for our present and for our future.

Please come to our Canvass luncheon, March 5 (or an alternative gathering March 10 or 12). RSVP to Kimetta in the church office (773-324-4100) or call if you did not receive your invitation. Please think deeply about our faith's meaning, to you and to others. Please consider its importance as a living faith now and in the years to come. Please pledge to give what you are able, give what makes you feel good about your giving. Your gift both expresses your commitment and strengthens it, for us all.

In faith and with love, 

Nina