1. May peace be with you. Or just peace is cool too- I just like the idea that we are all keeping in mind the idea of peace, I feel like it is such a positive statement and that it is something we should strive for everyday in our world and in our lives. It seems all too easy to forget that such a thing can exist in our violent and war filled world. The especially big bonus of this time is the chance to connect with everyone else that comes- to actually physically connect by touching someone's hand, and to get to know people. It's a very warm gesture.
2. The bread (cracker) and wine (body & blood). While I don't even partake of the actual refreshments, I love this part because everyone joins in a circle. It feels like everyone in the community is coming together, which is extremely powerful. It gives everyone the time to reflect and have a moment to connect with whatever they feel like they need to connect with. Everyone gets their 5 seconds, and everyone gets to watch everyone else get their five seconds. It's nice to be blessed- it just feels like someone is looking out for you.
3. The sermon. This totally rocks my socks. I have such reverence for the Reverend (well I guess that must be where the word comes from) who is able to bring stories that are so old to life. She inspires me to want to go out and change things, better myself, better our world, make it a more just place- who would have ever thought that the bible could be brought to life so relevantly in our society today?
4. The music. The piano is hot. It's cool to hear everyone get into it and sing together.
What I hear from the people of St. Mike's louder than anything:
We care about you. You are part of our community here ("wherever you are on your spiritual journey"). You're safe. Welcome.
I think all of this, and I'm a Jew, so chances are, whatever you are, you'd probably like to hang out at St. Mike's too.
Elizabeth Ozar, UCSB alum and Office of Student Life staff member