The Victoria Unitarian

February 2010

REflections on Friendship Faye Mogensen

February is the month we honour friendship – and what a happy thought that is. In the words of Robert Louis Stevenson, "a friend is a gift you give yourself." When we come to church, we open many doors to camaraderie and, whether we are young or old, the more companionship we enjoy at church the more likely we are to want to keep coming.

Children become acquainted with one another in RE class and deeper bonds begin to grow when they do projects or simply spend time together. This month, we offer several opportunities for “growing friends”. What about calling a family from the church and arranging to meet at World Religion Day on February 6, where there will be food, activities and an opportunity to learn about other faith groups? Spaghetti night is always a joyful time of sharing, and on February 12 when the tables are cleared, there will be games for children from two to 92. Parents are invited to gather at the same time in another room for a brainstorming session to create a vision for next year's program. On February 14, we can enjoy “An Amity Walkabout” hosted by Farrell Boyce - the plan is to circumnavigate Durrance Lake. Throughout the month, several intergenerational relationships will be nourished as Secret Buddies write letters to one another. On February 28th the Mad Hatter Tea Party will be a wonderful celebration of these new friends.

Make February a true month of friendship: honour old friends and welcome new ones – friends are what keep us human and are the cement that holds the world together. As William Blake so aptly puts it: The bird - a nest, the spider - a web, man - friendship.