RE-flections by Beryl Aschenberg, Director of Religious Education We can tell our values by looking at our checkbook stubs. ~ Gloria Steinem Children realize very early in life that money has value. They understand that getting a toy means that someone (often a parent) must spend money, or that they need to save … Continued
The Artist is Present Resource: “The Artist is Present” by Marina Abramovic. Read more about Marina Abramovic’s career as an artist here: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Marina_Abramović. Marina Abramovic and Ulay started an intense love story in the 70s, performing art out of the van they lived in. When they felt the relationship had run its course, they decided … Continued
Ordinary yet extraordinary wonders What seemingly simple thing sustains your sense of reverence right now? What ordinary object or relationship reminds you of life’s preciousness? What is currently helping you not take things for granted? Hopefully, these are easy questions for you. If not, figure out why and use this month … Continued
As Thanksgiving approaches, Unitarian Universalist families often consider blessings that might be said before a meal. Here are a few of my favorites: “For the food before us, the family (and friends) beside us, and the love that surrounds us, we are truly grateful.” –Sarah Richards “Earth, who gives to us this food, Sun, who … Continued
I’m a big fan of the NPR show “On Being” with Krista Tippett. Two years ago, singer Carrie Newcomer shared her poem “Three Gratitudes” on an episode. The poem starts with this: Every night before I go to sleep I say out loud Three things that I’m grateful for, All the significant, insignificant Extraordinary, ordinary … Continued
I remember my first visit to a Unitarian Universalist church. Just taking the step to walk into a “church” felt gutsy to me. I had grown up Jewish, married a Catholic, and felt like an agnostic. I wanted my children to have the opportunity to experience the richness that participation in a faith community can … Continued
At the start of the church year, our RE class leaders were invited to consider the gifts each of them bring to our young people whom they engage with at Follen. When children come to Follen Church, they experience a wide variety of connection with adults. Whether it is in the classroom, in multigenerational … Continued
Find your purpose Who do you want to be? What characteristics do you wish to embody and what life goals are ahead of you? This month, create a mission statement and find a way to read/reflect on it every day. Approach #1: Don’t worry…the internet can help you figure it out. This online program helps … Continued
In just the few short weeks that I’ve been here, I’ve heard over and over again that your children are stressed. Lexington (and the surrounding area) is a great place to raise a family, and the school systems ranks high on the list for why many people want to live here. But there is a … Continued
Meet Beryl Aschenberg Greetings! My name is Beryl (rhymes with “Cheryl”) Aschenberg, and I am delighted to be joining Follen Church as your new Director of Faith Formation. I look forward to a long and mutually fulfilling relationship with the members of this community as we explore dimensions of religious living and learning together. I … Continued
