Greetings from First Congregational United Church of Christ.

While a seminary student, I took a part-time job stocking shelves in a shipping room. It was a union shop and while I arrived at 2:00, a 15 minute break was allotted to all at 2:30. On the first day, I told my co-worker, "I don't need a break. I'll keep working." He replied that this was a union shop and all were encouraged to take the break. I thought here was example of a ridiculous union situation. Later my co-worker, an older man, told me the story of how the company became a union shop. Many workers risked their jobs and some even faced threats of physical violence. He also told of some of the oppressive working conditions and practices used by the company before a union was formed. Without knowing it, I was the beneficiary of people like him.

It opened my eyes to the need for a strong labor movement. History has shown that without such a movement, abuses take place and the gap between the top and bottom grows larger. This week-end is Labor Day week-end almost universally regarded as summer's last opportunity to get away. I remind us of the original intent and that society needs to respect and honor the working man and woman.

New Creation worship this Sunday features a clever take on Mac/PC commercials and Deuteronomy. Traditional worship features a sermon, "335 Words of Insight."

The Art of Creation will feature "The Art of Watercolor" led by Nancy Dickinson.

Priscilla Savage lies near death. Please pray for a gentle passing for this wonderful servant of the church. I will send out a notice when she passes.

Many of you are traveling this week-end. The rest of us will gather to praise the God of all creation. See you then. Dick