Breakfast Potlucks: Wednesday, March 19, 8:30 AM at Fredonia Presbyterian Church; Wednesday, April 2, 8:30 AM at UUCNC meetinghouse; . Details on the online calendar and at the News & Events tab above.

Tai Chi classes: Wednesdays, March 19 & 26, 3:30-4 PM: Details on the online calendar and at the News & Events tab above.

Cup of Kindness Cafe: Friday, March 21, 7- 10 PM: All are welcome at our Friday night coffeehouse. Details on the online calendar and at the News & Events tab above.

Pancake Brunch: Sunday, March 30 after the worship service: Enjoy pancakes (gluten free option available) and sausages (vegan option available), served with local syrup. Coffee, tea, and juice will also be offered. Details on the online calendar and at the News & Events tab above.

Chalice Circles: Sunday, April 6, 10 AM: Religious Exploration for all ages, K-adult. Details on the online calendar.

Learn about upcoming events on the online calendar.

If justice is what love looks like in public, then inclusion is what love looks like among groups. — Rev. Matthew Johnson

It all begins with you!

With the almost daily “political hand grenades” we are now dealing with, I am asked daily, “How can I emotionally cope with all of this? It is too overwhelming.” I tend to agree. However, it is our current reality. I do have a couple of encouraging ideas that I hope will help.

This will sound “woo woo” to some of you, but so be it. I am a great believer in the Power of Positive Thoughts. In 1952, Dr. Norman Vincent Peale published The Power of Positive Thinking. It has sold over 5 million copies. I believe that it should be required reading before a student is allowed to graduate college.

Quantum Physics is a science that is just beginning to understand the Power of Positive Thoughts upon what we call “Reality.” The ancients have been rather outspoken on this subject, if you study the literature and history. The so-called Intellectual Community has not accepted this point of view for many years. The anecdotal evidence is very solid in the support of the concept that you get out of life what you think into it. We can entertain fear or love. I really believe that the results speak for themselves; we remain open minded and honest with ourselves.

Overwhelmed? Please try this as an experiment: When you awaken in the morning, repeat this mantra: “You are strong. You are capable!” No stress, no strain. Just calm, sure resolve. Repeat this 10 to15 times. You can also do this at bedtime. Be completely consistent. That is what spiritual/mental discipline is all about.

If you try this for 28 days, it may amaze you what your own mind can do. Changing reality begins in the mind…your mind. Let’s just see if this is, as Dr. Peale postulated, spiritual realization or “woo woo.”  I stand with Peale.

Keeping Faith,
Rev. Ron