Beloved,

Spring is well on her way to us in New Jersey. I’m (Rev. Robin) delighted to see snowdrops coming up through pine straw at our new property at 695 Springfield.

This Sunday, we are leaning toward the light with our Equinox services. 9:30AM virtual and 9:30 and 11:15 AM in person at 695 Springfield Ave. We will be outdoors with a spring pageant created by Helen Kaar, Tuli Patel, Jamaine Cripe, Misa Iwama and moi. Enjoy shared rituals like creating bird feeders, getting to know some local farmers and learn more about Nowruz, the Persian New Year. Beacon member Loddie Foose will have a Haft-seen table. Games for the children to play plus yummy cookies with hot tea and coffee. The choir will be singing some amazing songs to celebrate Spring.

These days, the refulgence of Spring almost makes me squint like you do toward a bright light. The heaviness of the world’s struggles, and our own here within our hearts and lives can make Spring seem too much. Many of you asked me recently, “how do I hold all of this?”

I do not think suffering is eased by denying the presence of joy. Do what you can. Let yourself be with compassion where you are in the moment– whether it be deep sorrow or budding joy. Just like the Earth, our lives contain seasons. And also like the Earth, of which we are a part, sorrow and joy can co-exist. Life perishes, and new life emerges. Again and again. This Sunday we will also ready supplies for Ukraine after each service and take up a plate collection for two organizations working to support newer immigrants and refugees: One World, One Love as well as First Friends of NY NJ. In addition, Beacon recently received news that the Afghan professor and her family that we are sponsoring may well be able to come to the U.S. by mid-summer. Joys buds, even as the struggle goes on.

Join us to honor this wisdom of the Earth and together to source hope this Sunday.

With love and faith,

Robin, Emilie and Tuli

Rev. Dr. Robin Tanner, Rev. Emilie Boggis, Dr. Tuli Patel - Beacon’s Leadership Ministry Team