Dear Rotary Family,

First, a big heartfelt thank you to President Elect Ross for leading Wednesday’s meeting and giving me the chance to travel. I had the great privilege of visiting the St. Paul’s Cathedral in London this week. While we were there, we got to attend their Evensong Choral service and hear the beautiful voices of their choir. This meditative and reflective service dates back to the Book of Common Prayer of 1662. Never have I heard such beautiful angelic singing. It was awe inspiring and reminded me of how music can bring those from all around the world and different cultures and languages together instantly. Perhaps there was indeed a reason that Rotary included a chance for its members to sing together in their meetings (A little “Home on the Range” anyone? One of my favorites). It can be instantly unifying. Also striking were the prayers spoken which emphasized the interconnectedness of humanity and the shared responsibility to care for one another and the planet, and working towards a more just and peaceful world and hope and resilience. I thought instantly of Rotary and our ideals and hopes that we put into action to lift up others near and far. Thank you for being a Rotarian and all you do to make our community and world a kinder, better place.

Kindest Regards,

Trudie