Dear UCM community,

During the worship service on March 15, a community member shared troubling statements regarding the operation of the overnight shelter hosted at UCM during the joys and concerns portion of the service. First, we want to acknowledge that what was shared may have been upsetting for many reasons, including personal traumas individuals may have experienced or are experiencing. We are sorry for any harm that may have occurred during this sacred time during the worship service.

We also want you to know that we are taking the statements made seriously. We said yes to hosting the overnight shelter in order to provide a safe, warm place for people who otherwise have nowhere to go. The safety of our guests and the shelter staff is of the utmost importance. We believe everyone should be treated with dignity. We also have a duty to ensure that the security of church property is maintained and that our facilities remain a safe place for all of us who gather here throughout the week.

The Executive Team will follow up with Capstone Community Action, the shelter’s managing organization. Rev. Joan is available to talk with anyone who might have pastoral concerns in response to what was shared this past Sunday. Finally, Rev. Joan and the worship team will discuss the best way to handle the sharing of joys and concerns going forward, to ensure that our worship service can meet our varied needs for connection, inspiration, and sanctuary.

Please feel free to reach out with any further questions or concerns.

Sincerely,

The UCM Governing Board and Executive Team

Jeremy Beaudry, President
Rev. Joan Javier-Duval, Minister/Ex officio Board Member/ET Member
Emily Seiffert, Vice-President
Jen Matthews, Secretary
Ansel Ploog, Financial Officer
Steve Gold, Member-At-Large
Susan Koch, Member-At-Large
Kate Spring, Member-At-Large
Diane Marie, ET Member
Donna Russo-Savage, ET Member
Biz Tandy, ET Member