October 31, 2020

Dear Accotink Family,

Together, Reverend Pippin and the Accotink UU Church Board of Directors wish to extend our care and concern to you during what is a stressful election period. We recognize that our nation may experience a contested election and/or a period of uncertainty and unrest following the election. The Board and Reverend Pippin met this week to discuss ways we can best support one another, our wider community, and our democracy in this time. 

We remind the entire Accotink UU Church community that we support one another and that we can draw strength and comfort from each other. Remember that the Pastoral Care Team is always available to provide a listening ear and reassurance – simply email [email protected] for support. The team also coordinates meals and other support in times of need. Reverend Pippin is also here for you, and will be holding open meetings on November 3 (1 PM and 7 PM) and Nov 4 (1 PM) to provide calm and connection for all who desire to join. And, of course, you can reach out to Reverend Pippin directly at [email protected] any time. The Board is also here to provide support and guidance for this community. Feel free to email Jan Forsyth at [email protected] or any of the other Board members listed below.

The Board is also taking action to help protect our democracy by partnering with Choose Democracy, a Quaker organization, on the Count Every Vote! initiative. Count Every Vote! is urging individuals to ask their publicly elected officials to go on record in support of a free and fair election. In so doing, it is hoped they will reflect the strong commitment of most Americans to our democratic institutions and especially to the election process. To explore what individuals can do, refer to the Count Every Vote! website. 

There are many other ways we can help defend our democracy and care for one another. We are so grateful for each member of AUUC as we support each other and provide an encouraging presence to our wider community. 

With care and gratitude for your partnership in faith,

Rev. Dr. Pippin Whitaker, Minister
Jan Forsyth, President
Peter Kahle, Vice President
Joe Tuggle, Financial Adviser
Sarah Pevner, Secretary
Lizzy Breckenridge, Kate Heilig, Lindsay Muirhead, Liz Reed, Jackson Tomasco, Board Members-at-Large

It is hard to believe it: I am already beginning my second and
final year as your Interim Minister. At the same time, I can hardly
believe it has been only a year. I have gotten to know so many of
you, and so much has been happening!
This fall we will be a part of the exciting venture of preparing
for AUUC’s future, so that ministers searching this winter for a
new congregation to serve will be excited to see what you are up
to! Your work this fall will include all our ministries (some of you call them “committees”)
looking at how to be inclusive, safe, and setting goals for growth. In September we’ll be
enjoying a leadership retreat, teacher training and religious education startup,
and a cookout. In October, our annual Auction will give us a chance to invite friends and
neighbors to a fun evening, plus a chance to raise funds for our future. And in November,
the UUA is helping you with a day-long “Beyond Categorical Thinking” worship and
workshop, in preparation for the ministerial search. AUUC is on the road to living out its
mission, honoring its legacy of the dreams of its founders, and being strong to prepare
for new members and wider impact in the community. It is a good time to be together!
— Rev. Linda