Make a Plan this Election Day
I’m sure you’ve made a plan to fill out your ballot already (and if you haven’t please do! Let us know how we can help.) But have you made a plan to care for your soul?
“Make A Plan For Your Soul” sounds dramatic, but the fears and anxiety surrounding the week ahead are very real and can be overwhelming for some of us. And that’s okay. In a weird way, our ability to care this deeply is to be celebrated and sanctified. I heard a poem this week by Catalina Ferro that ends with the words:
Because you have to have
a soul-crushing hope
That things will get better
To be this afraid of missing it.
(note: if you go looking for the rest of the poem, be aware it contains strong language)
The fear or anxiety you carry in the days ahead are a symptom of the love you carry for this nation; for our world; for God’s people. Here’s the good news: you don’t have to carry the love - or the anxiety - on your own. Our call as Christians is to draw near to one another in the midst of fear, hatred, violence, and division - just as God draws near to all human suffering through Christ.
Below is a list of ways you can connect at MCC throughout election week - including an Election Night Potluck for those looking for a safe distraction from the 24-hour news-cycle. Please make a plan to care for your soul, by leaning into connections bringing you closer to God, God’s People, and God’s World.
Yours,
Pastor Zayna
On Sunday:
9:30 AM Worship w/ Communion
In worship we’ll continue our Be Curious series with the theme of BRAVERY. We’ll remember who and whose we are as we gather around the table Jesus sets for all people. The choir will sing and we’ve got some really excellent music planned.
10:45am Afghan Refugee Presentation
After worship Carol Phelps will present a slideshow of photos from her time working closely with Afghan Refugees with the Faith Matters class.
On Election Day:
11am - 2pm Pastor Zayna at Barriques
Stop by for coffee or a treat at the Barriques on Old Sauk Road. Pastor Zayna will be there for conversation, prayer, and company.
3pm Online UCC Prayer Vigil
Join Rev. Dr. Karen Georgia A. Thompson, General Minister and President of the UCC, and other UCC leaders from across the nation for a nonpartisan election day prayer vigil and convening. More info here…
5:30pm Election Night Potluck
(Please enter through the office door as polling will still be taking place in Fellowship Hall) We’ll gather in the education wing to lean into community in the midst of the unknown. Arrive anytime after 5:30, we’ll plan on eating at 6pm. RSVP here.
On Wednesday:
8:00am Coffee and Conversation
The C&C Group begins a new book and it would be a great time to join the conversation. They are reading The Red Tent Bring your own coffee and come prepared to discuss the first three chapters. Find more details on page 9.
1-3pm Guided Forest Walk
Take a break from the newscycle to wander in the woods with a forest bathing session at Holy Wisdom Monastery. Email Pastor Zayna (zthomley@middletonucc.org) to be added to the list and receive important details.
6:30 Choir Practice
If you are in the choir, don’t let your anxiety keep you from rehearsal. Come to sing and pray and know you aren’t alone!
