May 14, 2017 - Flower Communion and Honoring Desi Long

At worship on May 14, 2017, we celebrated our annual “Flower Communion” and honored Desi Long for her nearly 25 years of service as our Music Director. Desi is officially retiring at the end of May and intends to remain active at UUCC.

The photos in the slideshow below were taken by Steve Scott. Click the arrows on the sides of the photos to move between photos. The video below of the UU Singers performance led by Desi was shot by Steve Scott.

"Mom Earth" awaited the beginning of worship on Mother's Day.
Rev. Molly introduced the Flower Processional Hymn.
Children brought the flowers to the front of the sanctuary for the Flower Communion.
DRE Jamila Batchelder told the story of how the Flower Communion came into being.
The congregation, led by Rev. Molly at left, read the "Consecration of the Flowers" by Norbert Capek, Reading No. 724.
During the sharing of flowers, Alan Arnold on saxophone and Neil Minturn on piano performed.
Children passed out flowers to congregants.
Children and adults came forward for the Sharing of Stones.
Children departed for their R.E. activity.
Suzanne Griffin, chair of our Green Sanctuary Team, presented a "Green Sanctuary Moment."
Rev. Molly introduced a series of reflections about the retirement of Desi Long as our Music Director after nearly 25 years on the job.
Church Administrator Kathie Bergman was the first person to reflect on Desi's tenure.
Long-time member David Leuthold spoke about the beginnings of the choir at UUCC as the reflections continued.
Desi, at left, listened to the reflections.
Musician Alan Arnold presented his tribute to Desi.
Steve Mudrick, a choir member, introduced his wife for her reflections.
Joan Mudrick's reflections consisted of singing an adaptation "These Are My Favorite Things" based on Desi's favorite things.
Joan presented a balloon bouquet to Desi.
Rev. Molly introduced those giving recognition gifts to Desi.
On behalf of the Board of Trustees, President Jeremy Milarsky presented a gift certificate to Desi for meals at Uprise Bakery where she frequently eats when going to Ragtag Cinema.
Rev. Molly presented a gift to Desi from church staff members.
Jeanne Murphy presented gifts on behalf of the UU Singers choir.
After making brief remarks, Desi stepped away from the pulpit. She said, "This feels like my memorial service, but better because I'm still alive!"
Desi led the UU Singers in a choral benediction, "Go Forth with a Song."
A cake celebrating Desi's contributions waited in the Greeting Area for the post-worship social hour.
Desi chatted with well-wishers while displaying the framed photo montage given to her by the UU Singers.