As I reflect on this important day of celebration of our country's freedom and religious freedom, I am reminded of many things from the 2008 General Assembly. I have been participating in our General Assemblies since 1973, and once again, have come away challenged, moved, and touched deeply by my reconnection with old friends and colleagues, and encouraged by the exuberance of our youth and young adults. From the spectacular celebration of "The Sources" at the Opening Celebration, to Van Jones' electrifying Ware Lecture, Rev. Marlin Lavenhar's moving Sunday Sermon, to the Closing Ceremony, it was a memorable General Assembly.

If you are reading this, you are one of the many wonderful people who make our Unitarian Universalist faith tradition an outstandingly positive force in the world. Thank you for all you do in service for your congregation and community.

For the Hallman Campaign, GA 2008 was a very busy event! Our booth in the exhibit hall was staffed by volunteers from congregations all over the U.S. They did a marvelous job of sharing information as it was a busy place with many opportunities to learn, to have pictures taken and to find out more about the UUA Presidential race.

During the week I attended the ministry days, attended program sessions, talked with many people who were there, and held small group meetings with several leadership groups to learn more about their current concerns and their visions and aspirations for the future. I participated in the Green Candidates’ Forum; the DRUUMM, ARE, and LLUUNA Candidates' Forum; and the GA Candidates' Forum on Saturday evening.

I am delighted with the reception to my ideas and goals for the future of UUA and I value the input provided during these events.

One GA event I always attend is the Service of the Living Tradition where we honor the memory of ministers who have died in the last year, express our appreciation for ministers retiring and enjoy the energy of new ministers starting their careers in this exciting time for UUs. This year was especially significant for me, as my mentor, the Rev. Roy Phillips was named in memoriam, and my ministerial colleague at First Church, Dallas, the Rev. Xolani Kacela was recognized as having Preliminary Fellowship in the UUA. As we develop plans for a future of deepening and growth in our congregations, this annual service is a special reminder of the importance of continuity and energized leadership in service to our faith tradition.

I look forward to working with you over the next year as we enjoy our religious freedom in this amazing country and move toward a new era for communicating and sharing the liberating religious message of Unitarian Universalism.