Submitted By Carole McWilson
March greetings to all! As with John Shartle last month, this is my first opportunity to share “Bits from the Board”, as well as to serve on the UUYO Board.
Having been a member since 2009 (now over 10 years!!), I’ve been involved in a number of church activities, and always thought about being a Board member. Finally, the time is right, and I am excited to be working with such a dedicated and talented group of people! Many thanks to established Board members who are guiding “newbies” through some unknown territory these first few months! Spring is almost upon us – though we know in Youngstown it always snows on St. Patrick’s Day (or so I’ve been told!).
Transition to In-Person Worship—continuing discussion:
We are all anxious to return to in person church services and meetings, and will be contacting other area churches to see how they are approaching this issue. We’ll also be considering ways to improve our sound system – especially as it pertains to possible services in Channing Hall, as well as possible use of our wonderful little patio over the summer.
8th Principle Implementation
There was lots and lots of discussion on how UUYO can continue to demonstrate its commitment to the community, especially considering its newly approved 8th Principle. There is already a small group established to discuss church and community involvement around this topic, and the Board has appointed a liaison to the group. Other discussions by the Board included other ways in which UUYO can become more integrated into the community.
Website Development
We’re updating the website to focus more on the needs of visitors and newcomers. Rev. Joseph will take the lead with those in the congregation who have expressed an interest in being involved.’
“Facelift” activities for Rev.Joseph’s office !
. . . are moving right along! Thanks to Board and church members, priming, painting and other activities are well underway. It won’t be long until “the big reveal”! In addition, more appropriate space to store archival materials is being explored.
Reimagining RE
A meeting was held with parents, who were happy to have their voices heard! Planning will continue through the coming months, and we hope to recruit RE teachers from within the congregation.
LGBTQ
We are happy to report that Jan Grigsby will be reinvigorating her committee; she already has a speaker engaged for our March 28 service! AND, PFLAG is donating a new flag to UUYO – how great is that ??
Sarah’s Maternity Leave
All agreed that Sarah is a very valuable employee and a bright spot in our midst!! . Sarah will be off completely for two weeks, and gradually transition fully back to work by the end of 8 weeks (dates to be determined ‘-).
That’s it from the Board for March – thanks to all for your continued energy at UUYO, and your support of the Board and it’s members!