As the conflict in the Middle East erupted and continued to evolve in October, we’re aware that many are experiencing levels of grief, fear, and sense of loss. Nowhere is this more acutely felt than within Jewish and Muslim communities who are so deeply connected to the land, history, and people of Israel and Palestine. In mid-October, as a simple expression of our solidarity with our friends in these faith communities, and in recognition of the sanctity of life, we’ve visited the Muslim and Jewish communities UUC is most connected to: Idris Mosque, Muslim Association of Puget Sound, Congregation Beth Shalom, and Temple Beth Am. The purpose of these visits has been to show support for our interfaith friends, to bear witness, and ask what is needed during this very difficult and painful time.

UUC’s Interfaith Justice Team has been developing relationships with both Jewish and Muslim communities over the past 6 years through shared study and showing up in response to acts of Islamophobia and Anti-Semitism. Members of this team delivered a message from Rev’s Jon and Beth to the mosques and synagogues, along with the gift of a chalice. In times such as this, our relationships to one another and across communities are vital for healing and working together toward more peace, safety, and freedom.

On behalf of our congregation, University Unitarian Church, we wish to convey that we are holding you in our hearts in this time of grief and pain. We invite you to accept our gift of the accompanying chalice, an important symbol in our faith tradition. When we light the chalice in our worship, we illuminate a world that we feel called upon to serve with love, justice, and compassion.

~ Rev. Jon and Rev. Beth