Colleen Manion

Colleen Manion

My husband and I were newly married, a second time for each of us and we were pregnant with our first child together. Knowing that our religions of origin were not an option with this new family we were forming we embarked on “church shopping” which, I’m sure sounds familiar to many of you.

We went to a local church and held our hands up in the air as we sang about Jesus – not so comfortable but the childcare was excellent! After a few more visits to different churches, we ended up at The Unitarian Universalist Church in Summit.

In our early membership, having Beacon as a family destination every Sunday was surprisingly wonderful considering the religious structures my husband and I were familiar with. Sunday services brought thoughtful ideas and concepts, fellowship and learning. One of our early visits highlighted The Arts – a Broadway tap dancer tapped down the aisle and performed for us! Now, this is my kind of church!! Every Sunday when our family went to church together was a good Sunday. The quiet meditation calmed my busy brain and the connecting with others fed my spirit. The childcare was good too!

As the years progressed and we were involved with various UU opportunities our children grew within the church and learned so much. In “Neighboring Faiths” they explored different religions – Visiting other religious institutions of faith that my husband and I never advanced to in our “Church Shopping” years before. In the RE program our children explored values and ethics. In youth group they both held the title of “Energy Leader” at different times. Our daughter also took many an opportunity to perform at Beacon services, accompanied by Mitchell Vines who guided her singing a variety of pieces and where she gained a style and confidence that serves her well today.

The old church-wide garage sale was a favorite of mine. It encompassed the entire building and membership and it was an exciting and exhausting annual event. It was a huge group activity recycling used items and bringing in cash for our causes.

Through the years my family has admired the energy and commitment of our many Board members and The Beacon Leadership Ministerial Teams who bring so many gifts of talent to our active community. For me and my family, Beacon is where we tune into the remarkable!