Kate Lovelady, Leader, Ethical Society of St. Louis Since December, 2005

Members and friends who have feedback (comments, suggestions, concerns) they would like to convey to Leader Kate Lovelady may contact her directly or speak with any member of the Leader's Advisory Committee. Members of the committee include: Bob Pickard (chair), Joyce Best, Cathy Pickard, Fran Solomon and Elaine Till. (Contact information can be found in the membership directory.)

I discovered Ethical Culture several years after graduating from college. My life’s ambition at the time was to emulate Thoreau: to hole up in a pastoral cabin and write poetry and essays that would somehow make the world a better place—without my having to leave my retreat. After a while, it occurred to me that my quest for a better world would probably be more successful, and more fun, in concert with others. My search for a community began. I visited many interesting philosophy and social-action groups, but I longed for a sense of deeper connection between people. I visited many well-meaning religious groups, but all seemed to require me to hold beliefs that I simply don’t, or that don’t seem relevant to me.

And then I found Ethical Culture and had the “Where have you been all my life?” experience that many of our visitors and new members talk about. I honestly didn’t know there were so many other people who believe what I believe.

What is it we believe? First, that the way people lead their lives and treat others is more important than, and the test of, any set of beliefs. Second, that religious communities, even in the modern age, still have much to offer: community, fellowship, inspiration, organized opportunities to serve others and to advocate for peace and justice; “guinea pigs” on which to try out your potluck dishes, your ideas, and your reinventions of yourself as a kinder and more truthful person (a hard balance to find); opportunities to teach and learn from children and youth, from peer groups, and from folks you might not have otherwise come across in your day to day life; chances to have fun, to learn, to share—and to disagree and still find common ground.

Third, that each of us—and our organizations, belief systems, meanings, humanity itself— is a work in progress. Consequently, if we want ethical progress—the creation of a kinder, fairer, more just society—to continue, it’s going to take work from each of us. Together such work can be shared, and even joyful, as we develop our ethical ideals and our ability to act on them. Ethics is a process of mutual growth. We each grow through helping others to grow.

I wish you well on your ethical journey. If you are new to Ethical Culture, please explore this website, come visit us, or visit an Ethical Society near you (aeu.org can help you find one, or start one, or join a “virtual” Ethical community). Our Sunday mornings are diverse, with meditative and discussion groups; Sunday School for children and a youth group for teens; music; and inspiring and informative addresses. Our weekday classes, workshops, and social activities are open to all. We seek members of all ages and diversities, and we welcome partnerships with groups that share our ideals.

If you are a frequent visitor, I hope you will consider exploring membership, to help build this valuable community. If you are a member, I thank you for your commitment, and I look forward to growing with you.