We have a new sign honoring the Lenape people thanks to William Kalb’s eagle scout project!  William and family have been members of UUCWC since 2014.

You may not have seen the newest addition to our UUCWC property due to the capital project because the sign is at the end of the parking lot which is currently blocked by all the construction equipment.  When it is safe, please take a moment to view this beautiful tribute in person – until then, enjoy these included photos.

The text on the front: Our congregation gathers on the land of the Lenape people, who have been stewards of the ground, waters, mountains and shorelines for generations.

The text on the back next to a map of Lenape homelands:  The Lenape people are the original inhabitants of eastern Pennsylvania, southern New York, New Jersey, and northern Delaware, collectively referred to as the Lenapenokink, meaning, “land of the Lenape”.  For over 10,000 years they have been the caretakers of these lands and of the “River of Human Beings” more commonly known as the Delaware River.

The Lenape are a deeply religious people and their belief in a Creator and eleven lesser Gods reaches all aspects of their lives. They believe that all things have souls. This reflects a deep reverence for their natural environment and a concept that they are only a small part of Nature’s grand scheme.  For the Lenape, land is not seen as something to be owned, but rather as something to be respected and cared for.  They view themselves as stewards of the land, responsible for maintaining harmony and balance with nature.

Over a period of 200 years, many Lenape people were removed and dispersed throughout the country. Some took refuge with other tribes.  A large number of Lenape families remained in their homeland and continue the traditions of their ancestors up to our present day. Today, the Lenape people from all over Turtle Island (North America) are revitalizing their communities.

Thank you again to William Kalb and the project committee consisting of Bob Alt, Andy Damato, Justin Roth, and Denny Rodgers.