Notes from our minister Lori King-Nelson, MDiv

• December Spirit Matters

  Christmas is widely celebrated as a major religious and cultural holiday, primarily marking the birth of Jesus in Christianity. However, the end-of-year holiday season is also a time when people from many faith traditions, as well as those who are secular, come together to celebrate, reflect, and share in festivities. Respecting the dignity and historical significance of all faith traditions at Christmas is essential for fostering understanding, inclusivity, and harmony in our increasingly diverse communities.
  The origins of Christmas are deeply rooted in Christian theology, but its timing and many customs have broader historical significance. December 25th coincides with ancient winter festivals such as the Roman Saturnalia and the pagan celebration of the winter solstice. Over the centuries, Christmas has incorporated (we might also say culturally appropriated) traditions from various cultures, reflecting a history of adaptation and some inclusion.
  Dignity is a core value in all major faith traditions. It calls for recognizing the inherent worth of every individual and their beliefs. At the holiday season, respecting the dignity of all faiths means acknowledging that the holiday season holds different meanings for different people. For Christians, it is a time of anticipation. For others, it may be an opportunity to retell the stories of their faith tradition, celebrate family, community, or the changing of the seasons.
  In multicultural societies, it is important to create inclusive environments during the winter holiday season. This can be achieved by recognizing and learning about other faith traditions: Understanding the significance of Christmas, Hanukkah, Kwanzaa, Diwali, and other holidays that occur around the same time broadens our perspective and deepens mutual respect. Inclusive celebrations means incorporating diverse symbols, greetings, and customs in holiday events that help everyone feel valued and included. Respecting different practices means understanding that some may abstain from holiday festivities for religious or personal reasons. Allowing space for these choices is key to honoring dignity.
  Open dialogue and education are powerful tools for promoting respect among faith traditions. Schools, workplaces, and communities can encourage conversations about the historical and religious significance of various holidays. Educational initiatives can dispel misconceptions and foster empathy, ensuring that the dignity of all traditions is upheld.
  December offers a unique opportunity to reflect on the importance of respecting the dignity and historical significance of all faith traditions. By honoring the diverse ways people celebrate, and by fostering understanding and inclusion, we strengthen the bonds that unite us as a global community. Let this season be a time of genuine respect and appreciation for the rich tapestry of beliefs that enrich our world.
  I’ll see you and your guests at the Christmas Concert this Sunday.

  Peace,
  Lori

• Spirit Matters—October 2025

  Compassion. Our theme for October is Cultivating Compassion, and I am trying to think of ways I can actually cultivate that. Most times we think that having compassion for others is what is meant here—and it can be that also—but what about when we need to have compassion for ourselves? Like, maybe giving ourselves a little grace when we respond a bit sharper than we should, or when our first reaction isn’t quite as loving as we try to be. Just because we occasionally don’t live up to our own standards doesn’t mean we should beat ourselves up about it. That is always a very important place to begin because we need to be in a good space ourselves before we can take care of others. That can be so hard to remember though, since we are often moving at light speed trying to be all the things for all the people. How do we cultivate compassion within ourselves and for ourselves?
  One of my practices involves creating a peaceful and meditative space where I can sit quietly and identify what I need: Is it a day off, a problem needing a solution, a health concern, assistance with a project? Or maybe I just need to say aloud the things weighing on my heart—and with all that is happening around us these days that can be a huge weight. I can light a candle, sitting in silence as I clear my mind and heart, meditating and practicing mindfulness and empathy by this small act of kindness toward myself. Self-compassion is hard, for sure, but prioritizing our own emotional health is a critical step in being a loving and compassionate person out in the world. This world desperately needs that.
  I am practicing self-love daily. Practicing is the key word here because I still feel uncomfortable at times, but I keep at it. Gently. Remember the words of poet Andrea Gibson:
  Try Softer
  Honor wherever you are,
  Whether the door to your life
  Has blown off its hinges,
  Or you find the simplest joy
  Sitting on a patch of winter sun
  On that corner of the carpet
  Where you love to stretch.
  Try softer, not harder—
  Giving yourself a safe place
  To land your attention, resting
  In this threshold moment
  Through which wind, snow
  And light all enter alike.

  Peace,
  Lori