The first few months of 2004 saw a mixture purposeful advocacy and a series of joyful parties and celebrations. All Souls women (and some men) traveled twice to Washington in buses to affirm women’s reproductive rights and to protest the war. Serious efforts were started on a voter drive to register as many voters as possible. There were bitter-sweet parties for Jan, to share her joy in having been called to her own congregation in Massachusetts, and for Galen, to celebrate his 10 years at All Souls and the attainment of his new doctorate. We also celebrated the unveiling of Forrest’s portrait, commissioned in honor of his 25 years at All Souls.

Many lectures and other events were accompanied by impromptu buffet meals (thanks to Annie Gorycki) and Lifelines continued with its conversation/dinner format, this time with a series of talks focused on religion. The annual Seder celebration, graduation parties for church schoolers, and a breakfast honoring All Souls’ many volunteers complimented the theme.

But our advocacy committees and task forces did not let the more light-hearted activities deflect them from the serious matters of the war, nuclear proliferation and human rights through a series of workshops, lectures and hands-on protest events.

All Souls also looked inwards at itself with serious debates about our statement of purpose in connection with proposed changes in the Bond of Union.

In this issue, these matters are explored along with programs aimed at our physical health and wellbeing in addition to stimulating our minds.

In future issues of the Quarterly, we would like to highlight special achievements in the lives of our members: books, articles, awards, performances, etc. Please let us know about your recent achievements, creative or otherwise. Please contact Marietta Moskin at 212-289-7900 or by e-mail at m.moskin@verizon.net.