As I begin my role as Westside Unitarian Universalist Church President, I have been reflecting on what makes Westside so special. We not only talk about Westside being an inclusive, welcoming place where open minds and open hearts meet, and where you can question, explore, belong, grow spiritually, and make a difference, we work to make it happen. 
From my first visit I loved the Westside community spirit of love, respect, and mutual care. I was warmly welcomed by Reverend Carol Bodeau and other Westside members. I enjoyed sharing my background of attending the United Church of Christ as a child, then during the college years beginning my own search for meaning and spiritual growth and hearing the journeys others took to become UUs. 
This is such an exciting time at Westside, and we are increasingly making a difference. Our membership is growing, and we are financially healthy. We have experienced capable staff and a strong and growing volunteer leadership team. Covid is well behind us, and we are rebuilding important programs such as Children's Religious Exploration, as well as increasing our community partnership outreach activities. 
There are a wide variety of ways to be involved at Westside including helping the Green Sanctuary Committee improve the environment on Westside grounds and in the community; joining the Volunteer Tax Assistance program team; participating in Earth Church; attending Spiritual Practices; unleashing your creative talents through Arts and Crafts or Poetry Writing; and many more. 
If you haven't already, please explore our website and sign up for the weekly newsletter for details on Westside activities. I invite you to also reach out to me or one of the other Board members or Committee Chairs.
As the world has become increasingly challenging, our support of each other and the wider community is even more important.
I'm honored to be on this journey with you. 
 

Respectfully,
Michele Neifing