I started coming to FUSF in the mid 90’s and signed the Membership Book in 1997. I’m a long-time member, but I didn’t come easy at first. I grew up Catholic and went to St Bonaventure University, a Franciscan Catholic University where I had a great experience. But something was always off for me from a religious and spiritual perspective. As I aged, I plodded on with my Catholic traditions; it was what I knew. When I married and started a family, I was involved with the religious education program at a Catholic church here in Franklin and found that I couldn’t get the words out of my mouth that they wanted me to teach these children. OK, I’m a heretic; going to hell. Nope, I didn’t believe in Hell then, and I certainly don’t believe in Hell now. That seriously got the search for something more going.

I decided to  let hope—not fear—guide my choices and started going to services at FUSF with my family.  Liking what I was seeing and hearing, I volunteered in RE and found that the people I was meeting from FUSF were genuine, they walked the talk. I also liked what was being taught. From there I latched on to the 7 Principles and found that these shared values kept me grounded as I wrestled with the notion that this was my spiritual journey for truth and meaning, as well as looking for a spiritual community for my children. I was on my way. Next, I was waiting for the money question to drop, and it did. We pledged, and because of the transparency, I saw that the funds were spent responsibly, another big concern of mine put to rest.  As my connections grew, so did my commitment and involvement. I increasingly gave my time, talents, and treasure, being constantly amazed at what we were getting accomplished. I managed to get my head around the notion that we’re not doctrine-driven but covenant-driven. Not following any “book” or “creed” was refreshing. I was enlightened by the teachings from different global religions and philosophies and it is ok to question….where does that happen? Here!

As my connections deepened at FUSF, I found myself listening to amazing personal stories. I met people from diverse religious upbringings, beliefs, and spiritual journeys: Atheist/Agnostic, Christianity, Judaism, Buddhism, Humanism, Earth-based beliefs such as Paganism, Wiccan and native American beliefs. It doesn’t matter if you’re straight or gay, bisexual, transgender or queer—all are welcome. I had that ah-ha moment….we, all of us, work together to make FUSF what it is, bound together by a covenant with Love at its core. We’re not perfect but we share ideas and work through our differences with respect. What an example for our children and the world! It doesn’t get any better than this for me.