The Auburn Journal’s Religion Page
August 27, 2004

“Meddlers” example of democracy, spirituality

By Wayne Manning
Unity of Auburn

I am a “semi-regular” member of the group that meets in the Rose Room of City Hall each Tuesday morning.

The group began as the “Economic Development Committee” of the Auburn Chamber of Commerce and was renamed the “Chamber Forum” a few years ago. Most people affectionately refer to it as “The Meddlers.”

Any meddling that might occur from time to time, though, is far overshadowed by the dynamic energy present in a room full of citizens who care deeply for their community.

The 40 to 50 people who attend are a mix of local elected officials, past elected officials and future hopefuls, and other interesting people from every walk of life.

This week’s guest was George Williams, a past mayor and councilman and current treasurer for the City of Auburn.

Through the happy combination of sound city management, responsible decision making on the part of City Council, and George’s expertise as an investment strategist, Auburn’s financial picture is very good.

In these uncertain times of state budget woes, Auburn has healthy reserves of some $2 million, while many cities of comparable size are borrowing money to pay daily bills. I’m glad I went this morning. My faith in the town I love was reaffirmed.

As you can imagine, we don’t always agree, particularly when it comes to politics and our many social systems. But there is almost always an undercurrent of respect for differing views and a willingness to listen.

The fact that such a meeting exists, and that it is just as popular and well attended today as it has been for nearly 40 years, is a heart-warming sign of the health of our community.

You might ask why I would take the time and space to talk about this on the religion page. For me, the very essence of religion is present in this wonderful expression of democracy.

There is an underlying vibrant spirituality when people gather for the reasons we do, and talk about things that are important to us as a community.

Such discourse is the very bedrock of civilization, and it ennobles us and adds meaning to our lives.

Wayne Manning is part of a group of church leaders who write weekly columns for the Journal.

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