Good day everyone,

In case you were unable to make it to the most recent congregational meeting, I wanted to post my speech as my first President’s blog.

“I would first like to thank Michael Bloom for his service as President this past year. Thank you for your leadership. I would also like to thank the outgoing board members, Greg Hunt and Ian Sachs, for their years of service on the board of trustees.

It’s truly with a profound sense of purpose that I stand before you today as your Board President. Together, we are at the cusp of a new chapter in the life of our congregation, and I am honored to be part of this journey.

Hope is a powerful force that propels us forward, and I’m inspired by the hope for change and growth within our beloved community. As we look to the future, let us envision a congregation that embraces diversity, fosters inclusivity, and supports each member on their unique spiritual path. Our collective commitment to change will be the catalyst for a thriving community that reflects the richness of our shared experiences.

Change isn’t merely a concept; it’s the catalyst for progress and transformation. Together, we can foster an environment that embraces change as an opportunity to evolve and thrive. Change is the bridge that connects our present to our future, offering us the chance to build on the foundation of our shared values while adapting to the evolving needs of our community. It invites us to reassess, innovate, and explore new avenues for connection, understanding, and collaboration. Through this lens, change becomes a positive force that propels us toward a more vibrant, inclusive, and resilient spiritual community.

The ongoing efforts of the Long-Range Planning Task Force embody our dedication to achieving financial stability. As they diligently work toward ideas on securing our congregation’s future, I’m excited about the potential for growth and sustainability. Together, we’ll navigate the financial landscape, ensuring that our resources are wisely managed to aid in the sustained growth and prosperity of Emerson’s Congregation in the years to come.

Our shared vision for Emerson’s congregation involves creating a space where every member feels valued, heard, and supported on their spiritual journey. Let’s work collaboratively to cultivate an inclusive and vibrant community that reflects the diversity of our beliefs and backgrounds. One of our paramount responsibilities is to create a safe and welcoming space for all who enter our doors. In this regard, I’m committed to the development of a comprehensive safety policy for our church. Safety is an integral part of our shared experience, and by establishing clear policies, we can nurture an environment where everyone feels secure, valued, and able to fully engage in our community.

Looking ahead, the possibilities for a bright future for Emerson are paved with the collective efforts of individuals who share a common goal. I envision a congregation that continues to evolve, adapt, and thrive. Our shared values will be the guiding light as we explore new avenues for growth, outreach, and community engagement. Together, we will build a future that aligns with the principles that define us and fosters a sense of purpose and belonging.

In closing, I invite you to join me on this journey of hope, growth, and transformation. As your Board President, I’m committed to fostering positive change, ensuring financial stability, prioritizing safety, and unlocking the boundless possibilities that lie ahead for us. Together, we can build a future that honors our Unitarian Universalist principles and ensures the well-being and growth of our beloved community.

Thank you for your trust and support. Together, let’s embark on this exciting chapter in the life of Emerson.”

I truly believe that these words in my closing encapsulate my thoughts of Emerson. While I know that the road to a sustainable financial congregation is, more than likely, going to be tough, I know that we can do it together. I look forward to the journey we are embarking on and setting the course together with you.

Keep an eye out for more blogs to come. 😊

Respectfully,

Bradley Smith

• President, Emerson BOT