Treasured windows to be rededicated at Tree of Life UU Congregation
On Sunday, Sept. 16, the Tree of Life Unitarian Universalist Congregation, 5603 Bull Valley Road in McHenry, will re-dedicate nine windows representing the faith traditions that inspire the congregation at a special service at 10:45 a.m.
In 2012, the Unitarian Universalist Congregation of Woodstock moved to the current location in McHenry and became Tree of Life. They brought the interfaith stained glass windows originally installed in the old church and dedicated at the centennial celebration for that building in 2006 with them.
"From the time of the move, the Congregation has looked forward to having the windows installed in the new facility. Now that dream was finally realized. The windows are now displayed in the fellowship area and prominently visible as people enter the building. Representing the religions which are sources of our faith, the windows have been a meaningful part of Tree of Life's identity ever since they were created," according to spokesman Patrick Murfin.
Representatives of the eight faith traditions will be welcomed by Minister Kevin DeBeck and will participate in the service. They include Rev. Emily Davis of First Congregational Church of Crystal Lake, Jack Lazzara of the Unitarian Universalist Fellowship of DeKalb representing earth centered spirituality and paganism, Vimala Bhikkuni from the Blue Lotus Temple in Woodstock representing Buddhism, and Jack Minsley of Congregation Tikkun Olam representing Judaism.
Also being honored are Islam, Hinduism, Humanism, and Native American traditions.
The ninth window is a Tree of Life nestling a Unitarian Universalist flaming chalice in its branches. The leaves of the tree are from the glass used in all of the other windows.
Pam Lopatin, who was co-religious education director in 2006, designed and created the windows with soloist Ken Johnson.
After the service, the church membership and guests are invited to a picnic lunch in spacious tents on the grounds.
For information, call the church at (815) 322-2464, e-mail office@treefolifeuu.org or visit treeoflifeuu.org.