[printprofilepic]The Unitarian Church of Los Alamos has seen many changes during its life. Beginning in 1953 as a fellowship with 53 members and friends, it became an official church in 1960. Over the years, led by nine (called) interim, or informal ministers, it has grown to a congregation of roughly 150. I estimate that something on the order of 1500-3000 people can be included on the list of members and friends over the years. Obviously, most are no longer here. Our services, culture, and operational methods have, and will in the future, continue to evolve.
But one thing has not changed. Our community continues to consist of people who are committed to the idea of maintaining their relationship with the Church and to keep its doors open as a center for liberal religion in Los Alamos.
This cannot happen without a core of volunteers who help us in many ways. The Church depends on these people—from Board members, to Council chairs, to committee members, to regular volunteers who step up to fill tasks—to keep things running smoothly. I would personally like to thank all of you for helping with these jobs.
Further, I ask each member of our Community to do three things:
1) If you’re not now volunteering, think about taking up an unfilled job or position this year. Talk to some of our leaders about how you can help.
2) Every chance you get, thank one of our volunteers for their continued help.
3) While you are at it, keep telling our staff what a great job they are doing.
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August is the month for returning. Like school children looking towards school after summer vacation, we begin to think once again of Church. On schedule, the elected Church Board has begun its monthly meetings. During our first meeting we approved and signed a Religious Exploration Program’s Children and Youth Safety Policy and Procedures document to help ensure the continuing safety of our children and youth while at Church or at Church-sanctioned events. The people writing and reviewing this document did a very good job and it was important that we got it done before the fall session began. One of our commitments this year is to create a more completely defined set of written policies. Watch the monthly Board reports in the online documents for progress on this.
Dean Carstens
2010-2011 Church President
