APRIL – Transformation

This is certainly a month of transformative experiences and events – in nature, in the Jewish and Christian stories, in ourselves. It seems self-evident that themes of growth, rebirth, and change would predominate in the northern hemisphere in spring.

We had an old, knarly birch tree in our backyard. Slowly it withered away and died. We cut it down but the stump, too difficult to dig up, was left there, a handy seat for all. One spring a few years later we noticed a flash of green by the stump. On closer inspection, we found a sprout growing from the side of the dead trunk – at least we thought it was dead. Over the next months, the sprout grew and became a sapling with leaves. Eventually, after several years, we had a hearty birch tree growing again in the yard. The trunk which had provided nourishment to the new tree, was barely visible yet remained as the site of its rebirth.

We know that decay is the source of growth. We know the science of how caterpillars become butterflies, eggs become chickens, and seeds become flowers. We understand the symbolism of the stories of Passover and Easter. But there is a mystery to these transformations that awes and inspires us and causes us to feel transformed.

Vicki Merriam, Director of Religious Education

Religious Education Calendar

4/2 – Worship and RE classes

4/9 – Worship & RE classes

4/15, Saturday, 5:00 pm, Passover Seder for all (see below)

4/16 – Easter, Multigenerational Worship; children will participate in the story, “Demeter and Pereshone”.

4/23 – Worship and Game day

4/30 – Worship and Chapel Sunday

Passover Seder Saturday, April 15, at 5:00 p.m.

Passover (Pesach) celebrates the deliverance of the Jewish people from slavery in Egypt. Traditionally FCU has hosted a pot-luck Passover Seder to celebrate this holiday, honor our Jewish friends and remember the hope of freedom for all. This is a very family friendly event that allows us to come together, share a pot luck meal and leon. Remember, no yeast products or leavened bread. Matzah (gluten-free and wheat) will be provided.