Trees grow all through our city. Some parts of the city are better than others at taking care of those trees but they can grow in almost any corner, given the chance. Trees are our image of the web of life that encircles the earth, which creeps into the deepest caves and settles on ocean floors where even light is scarce. Trees are our congregation’s image of life given the shape of justice, harmony, beauty, and peace.

We know that there are places where the figurative trees of love and justice are cut down. We know there are places where violence and cruelty and fear poison the tree. We know how important it is to provide a place where not only the trees grow tall and unmolested, but where people can find shelter in the living Tree of Life. There are some religious leaders who say that there is only one way to know, name and approach that tree. They say there is only one way to find peace, healing, joy in living. They are wrong. But it is difficult to serve something that is larger than our minds and words can contain.

One thing I often point out is that our truth is not ours alone. We have a unique way of communicating that truth but it is as universal and common as the trees. Likewise many congregations are looking for creative ways to raise money and so there are many bazaars in the city but no one has a bazaar quite like ours, the Bazaar in the Woods. If you are looking to serve this church or be served by it, this is a great time to come to the trees.

Peace,
Thomas