My journey at FUSF has been one of spiritual growth and transformation. It was only six short months ago when a beautiful angel guided me through the doors of the meetinghouse and what a beautiful world I found. Six months ago, I knew no one. Not. A. Soul.

Things have certainly changed since my first visit when I walked along that cold February walkway and entered the meetinghouse. Greeting me at the table was a warm, friendly welcome and a genuine smile.  After a short conversation, I strolled into the sanctuary. There were no wooden pews. No holy water to dip my hand into. I continued and gravitated toward the art wall. I watched, listened intently, and learned a great deal in that hour.

Within a mere 60 minutes, I realized that I had just discovered a hidden gem! The minister spoke, music filled the air, candles were lit, and I thoroughly enjoyed the service. But before it wrapped up, the minister wanted to speak with the congregation about clapping after a musical piece.  

She gently urged that members not clap and gave her reasons for feeling this way. Then, the topic was open for discussion. Everyone was invited to share their thoughts and opinions.

As a newcomer, it was enlightening and refreshing to watch. I reflected back to the churches with wooden pews that I attended in my childhood, where we sat quietly, afraid to even sneeze! It was during this first visit to FUSF that I quickly realized how unique and extraordinary this community was, and I wanted more of it.

Under this roof there is respect, vibrancy, friendship, wisdom, the desire to create a better world, a welcoming community, and every cell of my being wanted to capture this and be a part of it. There is something remarkable here! FUSF is more than a hidden gem, it’s a treasure trove. And I was lucky to discover my newest fortune.

I have had a lot of changes lately. You could say our UU value of “Transformation” is my middle name. In the last few years, I’ve had a change in career, relationship, and residence, and I’ve explored a plethora of different jobs. I still don’t know what I want to do when I grow up! What I do know is that in FUSF I have found a supportive community where I can continue to grow and transform.