Simon’s Says
Some community-oriented thoughts on my mind these days…
Congratulations to Cindy Lignar, Pat Bandzes and Paul Radicchi on their election to Chester’s Select Board on Tuesday. In early summer I sat with Cindy over coffee outside The Villager and had a wide-ranging conversation about her candidacy and the type of leader she wanted to be. In late summer I was introduced to Pat by first name only, so I didn’t place her at the time – we were slinging lobsters, baked potatoes and cole slaw together at the annual Rotary Lobsterfest and frankly, we later agreed, neither one of us looked our best by the end of the night. And while I haven’t yet made Paul’s acquaintance, I look forward to doing so soon. Best wishes to all who were elected on Tuesday regardless of office, Chester is grateful for your willingness to serve.
I encountered a bit of rather curious policy at the Valley Courier this week. Rabbi Marci Bellows and I collaborated on a letter to the editor decrying the rise of antisemitism in the wake of Hamas’ brutal attack on Israeli civilians and the month old war between Israel and Gaza. We thought it was important for local faith leaders to speak with one voice on this critical subject. (I expect the letter to be published next week.) However, I was informed that although I have served in Chester for more than six years, I am not allowed to have a letter published in the Valley Courier because I do not live in any of the three towns covered by the paper. So while you will not see my name as a signatory, the body of the letter will include my agreement and support of our sisters and brothers at Congregation Beth Shalom and beyond.
Tomorrow is Veterans’ Day, and I look forward to joining with local vets and their families at Chester’s Memorial Park across the street from St. Joseph’s Church. Veterans’ Day and Memorial Day are two important community remembrances and I am pleased to be able to participate and to honor and thank all who have served in the armed forces. The ceremony begins at 9:00, if you would like to join us.
You should have received your 2024 pledge card and letter this week; If you haven’t, please call the church office at 860.526.2697 and we’ll be sure to get one to you. We ask that you bring your completed pledge indicating your financial support of the church to worship Sunday November 19, when we will dedicate ourselves and our pledges to God’s work at the United Church.
Finally, remember that after church this Sunday, Megan Spaulding will offer an informal class of Chair Yoga, a mild form of the practice. Megan leads a weekly class here at church and is doing this as a thank you to the church – hope you can stay!
Links to Sunday’s bulletin and service are here:
Join Us!
Sunday worship
is at 10 a.m.
In-person &
online on our
Worship
Handicapped Accessible
Directions
United Church of Chester, 29 West Main Street, Chester, CT 06412. (860) 526-2697
From the North: Take CT Route 9 South to Exit 8 (old exit 6) (CT 148). Turn left; we are 1 mile on the right.
From the South: Take CT Route 9 North to Exit 8 (old exit 6) (CT 148). Turn Right; we are .8 miles on the right.
Office Hours
Church Office:
Tuesday - Friday 9-1
Minister's Hours:
Wednesday - Friday
8:30-12:30
Mailing Address:
Post Office Box 383, Chester, CT 06412
Physical Address:
29 West Main Street, Chester, CT 06412
Telephone:
860-526-2697
Email Address:
