JANUARY 2026

Dear Kind and Gentle People,

Oh My Soul! Several weeks ago, while sitting in the prayer chair, inspiration came in the form of an idea to share the joy of life and banish fear of the new and unknown. A powerful blessing of light and hope unfolded as the tiny inspiration was honored.

Since 2000, 11 of the 17 houses on Elm Street have new occupants. Our tiny country street now has people from other countries, cultures, religious practices and diverse sexualities, (who knew?) and cool family structures. So, yesterday, “The Mill” hosted a gathering of all the families on Elm Street for a meet and greet your neighbors. It was amazing. EVERYONE ATTENDED!!!

Sadly, most people don’t even know their neighbors – and worse yet don’t even make an effort to greet each other with a hearty good morning! Boo Hiss! Our population has become fearful of others and many have multiple locks on their doors and cameras everywhere creating a false sense of safety and power.

We have little power over what may happen around us, but we can pray. Prayer puts power into hope. Prayer unleashes the holy power of the Universe and direction for our actions.

What are your hopes for the New Year? What do you expect will happen? What do you fear might happen? What would you be happy to leave behind in 2025? What would you like to carry forward into 2026? These five questions merit pondering and are worthy of bringing to your prayer chair.

As we begin a new year, do join me in lifting up our fellow sacred musicians, UCCMA, and the success for our 2026 conference. Pray for our community and world. Please pray for peace and justice to reign in place of violence, hate and hardship.

Remember to give thanks each day for the holy and sacred gift of life. Do seek to be filled afresh each day as you practice mindfulness and to listen for guidance. May the Holy One help each of us grow as we follow Jesus’ example of love.

A prosperous and powerful 2026 to all.

As always,

Gobs of Blessings and Heaps of Happiness.

Petah

Rev. Dr. Peter Stickney

First Sunday of Christmastide at Newfield Community Church

— Photo by Petah

Christmas Day 2025 with UnKuL Petah and his niece Clara

— Photo by Paul Fletcher