A Message From The Chair 3/14/24

Gordy McIntosh

The time of the Pledge Drive each year always gets me thinking about why I do so much for the church.

I’d like to share my UU story. I was born and raised Unitarian. My maternal grandfather was a Unitarian minister. He passed when I was just five years old, so I never knew him well. As you can imagine though, I come from a family of social justice and environmental activists.

I’ve been coming to Winchester Unitarian Society off and on since 1967 when my family moved to Winchester from Woburn shortly after the 100-year oak was planted in the circular drive. Reverend Bob Storer was my minister and Barbara Marshman the RE Director. I came on Sundays for church school, was a member of the youth group, and took AYS (About Your Sexuality), a precursor to OWL. I was a Scout and Troop Leader in Boy Scout Troop 506 that met in Metcalf Hall. I also spent a lot of time at the church with my mom and all the activities she was involved in.

Over the years I’ve been employed by the church and served on many committees, some of them more than once, and chaperoned WUSYG service trips. My proudest moment was chairing the Search Committee that brought Reverend Heather to Winchester. Heather has truly been my minister, as I’m sure she’s been for many of you. She has brought so much to WUS and I will miss her, but I am happy for her and wish her all the best!

This is, always has been, and will continue to be my community! Through thick and thin! Challenges and opportunities! This is why I give of my time and resources, to make Winchester Unitarian Society a radically welcoming community. I want to share the awesomeness that is WUS! In this time of so much anger and hate and division, together let’s build a Beloved Community for all! For today and future generations!