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Pastoring...
Summer is a time for rest, reflection, and renewal. For me, this means early morning swims, long walks with the dogs, and sitting quietly in the sun or the shade. It’s also a time for reconnecting with family and friends. Bob and I are planning to travel together to visit family during the first three weeks of July, when I am officially on vacation. We hope to bring Charlie and Susie with us this year. The whole family on the road!
Traditionally, summer is also a time for my lists. I have my summer reading list all set (Do I really need to read Carl Jung?). There is also a “To Do” list of chores for the house and garden; chores that are selected on a weather-dependent daily basis. Am I painting the living room or weeding in the garden today?
During the summer our church isn’t completely closed. We have scheduled two Sunday worship dates: July 18th and August 15th. Mike Rice will be returning to lead worship on the July date. Welcome back Mike! I will lead ther August worship. Our weekly and monthly events will be continuing through the summer. See the calendar for more details.
I hope that you find enjoyment in whatever you have planned for your summer. I look forward to shared stories when we gather again in September for the start of another church year.
May you be well and happy this summer.
With love,
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Rev. John G. Pastor Jr.
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Prior to coming to UUSG, our minister, Rev. John G. Pastor, Jr., served Unitarian Universalist Congregations in Athol, Weymouth, and Petersham. He graduated with academic honors from Andover Newton Theological School where he was actively involved in the Center for Faith, Health, and Spirituality and the Reiki Ministry.
During his tenure at seminary he completed a one year, full-time, chaplain residency at St. Elizabeth’s Medical Center in Boston. John was ordained in April of 2006 by the First Congregational Parish Unitarian in Petersham. In addition to serving UUSG, he is a chaplain for Allegiance Hospice and Palliative Care. He also is currently serving on the Board of Directors of the UU Mass. Action Network. Formerly he served on the Board of the Clara Barton for three years.
John lives in Petersham with his spouse, Robert C. W. Hall, Jr.. They share their rural home with their two cats, Jeeves and Salem, and their two dogs, Susie and Charlie. Rev. Pastor believes that his ministry is about helping to create a beloved church community where all are welcome. He testifies, “It is in this beloved community that we truly share our joys and sorrows, deepest concerns, uninhibited laughter, fondest dreams, and prayers for peace and justice. Building this community is my call as a Unitarian Universalist minister. I am honored and humbled in this task."
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