Dear Friends

Hello, Island United and Friends,

I pray this finds you and yours well. I look forward to being with you again this Sunday. Joy abounds.

This week, I will be reflecting upon the Gospel of Mark 9:30-37. In this moment, Jesus tells the disciples (us) of his death-to-come as they jockey for position of power. He, as always, bestows a teaching of how to be in this world so they might bring about the Realm of God.

And the human condition continues….

It is easy to point toward the larger socio-political events of power-jockeying and say, “There… over there…THERE.” However, I invite you to drill down and think about what it means to bring about the Realm of God into our lives that we might be that in a world that so desperately needs it.

With love,
Rev. Michael Cronin

And …

Dear Friends

We had a lovely service last week, with about equal numbers in person and on Zoom. The choir using special masks for singers provided exceptionally beautiful music, as did our soloists Lauren assisted by Darryl. We are not going to resume congregational singing quite yet. I trust you will understand that this is to ensure the safety of all.

We decided to go back to Zoom-only services for the remainder of the month, evaluating the latest Covid19 information carefully. We will resume in person on the first Sunday in October – the 3rd.

I also announced that my last day with you will be October 18, and my last Sunday October 17, after which I am relocating to Duluth Minnesota, to be the intentional interim pastor of Peace United Church of Christ. on the snowy shores of Lake Superior – https://www.peaceucc.org/ or @peace.church.duluth on Facebook. By prior commitment I will be preaching and leading workshops at All Saints Episcopal Church in Saugatuck, Michigan on September 19 – @allsaintssaugatuck on Facebook.

Next Sunday, September 26, I’ll give more detail about my changes and more importantly what will happen next at Island United Church. The Board already has plans to assure continuity and a smooth transition.

With faith and love,
Rev. Jim Mitulski