Sarah Edvalson

Sarah Edvalson

I first came to Beacon in March of 2013, and it is an experience I will always remember, because I happened to walk in on a Passover service. If you were lucky to be with us in the days when we could still break bread together, you’ll remember that was one of the more memorable services.

I came looking for a community. What I found were genuine relationships.

At first, it was the sermons that held me. For a long time, I couldn’t walk out without having cried during the sermon. And it still happens, because the sermons always seem to touch exactly where I am at that time. And though we’ve mostly been virtual for a while now, I can still recall what it was like to sit in the sanctuary in silent meditation with the congregation and feel connected with those around me. It’s an almost tangible feeling. In the coffee hour afterwards, people were always so welcoming to me, and I thank you for that.

I am indebted to Beacon for all that it has offered me over the years, from studying The New Jim Crow in a small group, to the marches I walked in with fellow Beaconites, to the activities we’ve done with Fountain Baptist Church, and so many other things that I could list. When my father died, I was touched to find how there for me this community and the leadership team were. They have always been there for me when I’ve needed them.

A couple of years ago, I joined the choir, and was surprised to find a small community there as well. They’re not just a group of people who sing together; they check in with each other and I’ve been very grateful to be a part of them.

One of the other important ways I’ve connected with people has been through the Beacon Community Groups. Through these groups, I’ve connected with individuals. They hold a place in my heart as the very caring, warm, accepting people that they are. They’ve made themselves vulnerable in their honesty and heart-sharing. It is a place where I know I am seen and heard. One of the guiding principles behind community groups is listening – not to interesting conversations, but to our lives, and our deepest selves. Community Groups offer opportunities to further our spiritual exploration, and they offer exercises/experiences as well, to practice our beliefs. I have been so grateful to have my group for the last year and a half.