Now we’re in summer, we’ll hopefully soon be able to see each other in person again. Let’s hope nothing derails that – fingers crossed!

After the national and Newcastle upon Tyne Unitarian AGMs, we can confirm that the Management Committee for 2021-2022 is:

Louise Reeve (Chairperson and Secretary)

David Venus (Treasurer)

Diana Bebby (Pulpit Secretary)

Ben MacLeod

Brian Robson.

We had some good discussions about the future at both meetings, with the national AGM approving motions about disinvesting Unitarian funds from companies with links to climate change, supporting the Unitarian Youth Programme and the Red Cross Interfaith fund, and developing a Code of Ethics for Unitarian leaders.

We also discussed future changes at Newcastle upon Tyne Unitarians. Some of these relate to making our services a little more clearly ‘Newcastle upon Tyne Unitarians’. Whilst many of us value the diversity of our worship leaders each week, we also want to have some continuity each week, something that binds our community together. As part of this, we’re intending to read out the Newcastle upon Tyne Unitarians Values Statement. Many of you were involved in creating this during the ‘What We Value’ workshops in 2019.

One concern that’s been raised about this is that as Unitarians, we should be careful not to have this become a ‘creed’ or set words that we must all subscribe to – or give new members this impression. That’s a very good point. Our values statement was written not as a statement of belief, since our beliefs differ, but as a statement of the values that unite us in our different beliefs and our journey together. And we can rewrite it any time! Here it is:

“We welcome all who seek the meaning of life, and who believe that human spirituality is wider than any one tradition, and deeper than any one set of opinions. With a respect for our Christian origins, we seek to explore all truths from all sources. Our fellowship gives us strength and encouragement in daily living.”

As I begin my third year as Chairperson here, I am grateful for the hard work of everyone who sustains our community. My thoughts are with everyone and I hope that you and your families and loved ones are well – and if not, I hope you are finding the love and support you need.

As ever, my thoughts are with everyone and I hope that you and your families and loved ones are well – and if not, I hope you are finding the love and support you need. If Newcastle upon Tyne Unitarians can help, you can email us at: info@newcastleunitarians.org.uk, ring: 07506 255 731, or write to us at: Newcastle upon Tyne Unitarians, Ellison Place, Newcastle upon Tyne, Tyne and Wear, NE1 8XG. We are keeping an eye on the building and your letter will be collected. Finally, we are here for all our members and will support everyone as best we can! Please do let me know what works best for you.
Louise Reeve,

Chairperson, Newcastle upon Tyne Unitarians