August 08

Hello everyone. My name is Rev. Zakir Lawrence Henson and I am the new minister in Grand Junction. I come her from Greeley and from Logan, Utah where I was a one year contract minister. Like your previous minister, I completed my M.Div. at Iliff School of Theology. Unlike most of my fellows in the west, I completed my internship in one of the largest and probably the most progressive UU churches in the association, All Souls Unitarian Church in Tulsa, Okla. Marlin Lavanhar was my intern supervisor and John Burton Wolf my internship mentor.

Also, unlike most of my fellow ministers, I have been an initiate in the Sufi Order International for 18 years. Yes, I have a daily practice and still maintain my connection to my teacher and to many Sufis. My practice is personal and was given me by my teacher in the Sufi Order. My name 'Zakir' was given me by my teacher years ago. It means to remember God in all things. That doesn't necessarily mean the same theistic idea or ideal that most theological thinking would have you believe. For me it means that we have the ability to remember the amazing gifts of consciousness and reason and appreciation. The meta question we all must ask is “Why is there something rather than nothing?” The second question is, for me, “ How do I know?” or “Who's asking?”

Those questions inspire a huge responsibility in me. I feel responsible to greet everything and everyone as if it were a sacred moment. Am I always successful at this? No, and that is why I am called upon to remember and to remind.

So how do I feel about being in Grand Junction? Let me tell you, I'm excited about this congregation.  Coming from a large congregation to some of the smallest is a real culture shock. Since entering into talks with UUCGV I've had the joy of talking to several different people. That feels very encouraging. The more everyone participates in congregational life the more interesting and lively the community.  I get the feeling that this is one such group of people. One of my favorite parts of any service is the music and I hear there is some fine music to be had here.

I'm going to officiate two services in August. A few colleagues think this is a little crazy, but I want to get a feel for the building and the chancel. That isn't all though. I want to see your faces and to offer you a chance to get to know me a little before we have the homecoming service in September.  Every congregation has its own style and its own way of doing things. That is maybe more true for ministers. I have my way of officiating. Some of you will find me flexible and, at times, ritualistic. My hope is to co-create lively, musical, and interesting worship events. With your help, we will do just that.

I want to learn as much as I can about you so don't be surprised if I carry a camera now and then and ask for photos.