Meet the Minister of the
Unitarian Universalist Congregation
of Grand Traverse

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A Message From Our Minister
The Reverend James "Chip" Roush

Unitarian Universalism is a noncreedal faith--you do not need to believe any specific thing to attend or join UUCGT. However, in the interests of clarity, and with the expectation that dialogue can challenge and improve all faiths, here is how I understand things:

I believe that our universe is one consciousness, that has been evolving for billions of years. We humans are part of that evolving universe--the part that has a conscience and opposable thumbs. This means that we have nearly limitless potential, for both good and ill. The task for those of us alive today is to work together and choose to pursue the good. This requires acknowledging our real differences, and engaging those differences so as to recognize our ultimate commonality.

I believe we can work with evolution, with that force of life that pulses in us all, to heal ourselves and our troubled planet. This life force has been called by many names, from the Unknown Unbegun to the Tao, from God to Mother Nature. I think it matters less what we call it, than that we DO call it, and foster its work in and through us, toward creating a more humane and just world for all.

Without getting too tied up in labels, I consider myself a religious humanist. That said, I also use and appreciate Christian language and symbols, and language from other traditions, including Judaism, Buddhism, Taoism, and earth-centered spiritualities.

I see my ministry as an outpouring of Spirit, the same outpouring as every other human life. We all minister to each other and our world; our ministries differ according to our circumstances and talents. My strength is to help people deepen and combine their individual talents into a powerful congregational community. Made stronger by each others' presence, and made wiser by our collective wisdom, we work in concert to better our lives and the lives of all beings.

This work is grounded in human relationship, guided by lifespan religious education, and sustained and energized by dynamic communal worship. It transcends race and class, replaces empty consumerism with shared purpose, and transforms wounded lives into vehicles of Spirit.

You are welcome to call or email me if you have any questions--231.947.3117 or jchipr@yahoo.com.

This is an exciting and vital time. Come join us!
--the Rev. Chip Roush