Rings and jewels are not gifts, but apologies for gifts.
The only gift is a portion of thyself.
—Ralph Waldo Emerson
Generosity is often thought of merely in terms of financial contributions—and yes, financial contributions to this congregation are necessary—but it is gifts of the spirit which we lift up in our community as a core value.
All that we give to one another matters. It is only by living with a spirit of generosity that this community can live into its vison of being just and joyful. When we give of ourselves to others, we take part in the larger love found in interconnected community. We need to acknowledge that we need one another, that each of us will have a moment to give and each of us will have a time to receive.
As Judith Meyer writes:
We all have so many needs—a thousand prayers—a thousand needs —that really only need one answer:
Let the world not be indifferent.
And may we live and be with each other in a way that shows this truth whatever the day brings:
That neither are we indifferent to each other.
This congregation has long given generously to Unitarian Universalism and Unitarian Universalist Principles in the world through the congregation’s Veatch Program. The Veatch Program funds Unitarian Universalist programs and institutions—as well as social justice organizations on Long Island and across the country. It is an important commitment of UUCSR. Many people have been
grateful for this congregation’s generous gifts.
And as a community of friends and neighbors, we also give generously to one another. We give of ourselves—our time, our talent, our treasure, our love and care. Have you received a card, a quilt, a call? Have you had lunch with a someone in the Social Hall? Has a young person made a friend on the playground? Have you paid your financial pledge to the congregation? Have you given someone a smile? Shared a song?
There are so very many ways for each of us to be generous of spirit—to contribute to sharing our faith, our values, or vison for a caring world.
May this continue to be a community of open hearts and hands. May we deepen our commitment to generosity of spirit.
Rev. Dr. Natalie Fenimore