Unitarian Universalist Church of Palo Alto

Temporarily Yours

June 6, 2010
Rev. Sean Parker Dennison

It is almost unbelievable that the time has come to say good-bye. How did six months fly by so quickly? We have traveled well together for this time, and I find that I am so full of gratitude I don’t know where to begin.

I can’t possibly name all the people who have made my time as Sabbatical Minister so lovely. I must, however, name a few who stand out. Rev. Dan Harper has been especially helpful, friendly, and willing to go the extra mile. His sense of humor got me through a few of the awkward moments and his support has been key to the success of this sabbatical time. Jeff Cashdollar and Debra Heinz are top-notch staff, willing to help whenever and wherever they can. They offered a warm and friendly welcome to a stranger that made it easy and fun to work together. I’ll miss all of them so much.

Kathy Parmentier, as chair of the Board of Trustees, has kept an eye on the details, kept things going, and worked extremely hard, taking on extra responsibility during the sabbatical time. I hope every one of you will tell her “thank you” the next time you see her. In fact, let that gratitude expand to the whole board, who have kept the congregation “on course” and thriving.

I also had the pleasure of working closely with the Worship Associates, the Committee on Ministry, and the Caring Network during this time and I want everyone to know what amazing people they are! They are truly the unsung heroes of the congregation, volunteering in ways that are rarely obvious. If you want to be close to the pulse of the congregation, get to know them. Naming them all here would make this article too long, but consider it a quest from me to find out who these amazing volunteers are and appreciate their amazing work.

Thanks too, to Dick Clark, who quietly edits and creates the Bulletin, helping the whole congregation stay connected and know what is happening. And of course, I can’t forget Pat Thomas, who arranges special music and creates the order of service for our Sunday services. She’s another of those unsung heroes who does the work, week after week, to help Sunday morning worship shine.

There are so many more of you that I have come to know and love in this short time. You have allowed me into your lives, been generous with your gratitude and affection, and gentle with my mistakes. It has truly been a privilege to minister with you. Thank you all.

My one wish as I get ready to move on to San Luis Obispo, is that you welcome Rev. Amy back with all the warmth, patience, support, and caring you have shown me. You are blessed to have Revs. Amy and Dan and they are blessed to have all of you.

With many thanks, Rev. Sean