Reflections on 2023
From my perspective, 2023 was a year of big transitions in the life of the church . . .
The biggest transition was the conclusion of the 40-year (!) music ministry of Dorothy Peck, on Sunday, January 7, 2024. Dorothy was not only our Music Director, she had served this church in almost every capacity during her time here, and her leaving us creates a huge spiritual and leadership void.
2023 was the year we secured an ARPA Grant from the Town of Waitsfield to construct an accessibility ramp that had remained undone from our big renovation in 2018. The footings and foundation are complete, but construction stopped when cold weather set in. We look forward to completing this project in 2024.
2023 was the year we transitioned away from a small Bottles and Cans shed to a larger shipping container that holds a week’s worth of returnables. After Stan and Dorothy Peck collected and returned their last nickel - for almost 10 years!, we watched as the B and C program transitioned into a weekly pick-up by Brandon Fuller of Rascals Redemption, Hinesburg.
2023 saw the removal of some pews in the sanctuary to make accessibility seating for differently abled folk and a “pray place” for our young folks. WUCC kids now join us in worship while doing their own thing ~ reading, art projects, or playing.
2023 featured new heating system controls in the building, a new parking lot, and new driveways.
2023 was the year Christ came to us in the form of New Vermonters. Bless you all for your work in helping them transition to being in a colder climate, and for having their immediate needs met - the biggest of which was the purchase of a car. Many thanks!
I am grateful for the resurrected Nominating Committee and those who have stepped into leadership positions in the church, and I pray this bodes well for the months ahead.
In 2024, I will finish my term on the Vermont Conference Ministerial Standing and Standards Committee, where I have served as Co-Chair of the Committee, and Chair of Members in Discernment. I will remain active in the Conference in the new Pastoral Preparation Program.
I will continue to serve this community as Vice President of the MRV Interfaith Council, as a member of the MRVIC Executive Committee, the convener of the Community Pantry Team and a member of the Emergency Grant Team.
Rev. Mark D. Wilson, Pastor
Halloween cookies and costumed kids.
Duets & 6-hand pieces!
A Lenten Garden.
The gift of the Songbird Project.
The Monthly Potluck
…our approach to communal gatherings & memorable connection! Bring your favorite casserole or secret family recipe. All are welcome.
Reaching the wider community via Zoom, YouTube & MRVTV.
Dorothy Peck and the wonderful Waitsfield Church choir.
A new driveway & an ADA compliant Ramp in Progress
Bottles and Cans has a new look!
Sundays in the Sanctuary.
Pastor Mark’s Wider Mission
Vermont Conference’s Ministerial Standing and Standards Committee
A heartfelt thank you to those who maintain our building & grounds.
Art Exhibits including Vision Layers. Thank you Arts Team.
Summer Music Series & Worship in the Round
During August, we gathered comfortably downstairs in the Fellowship Hall. A little cooler and in our circle, a little less formal.
Many thanks to our summer musicians - Amelia, Peter, Jane, Deb, Alli, Madigan, Rick & Beki.