Board member Betty Lynne presents the 2023 Rose Window Award to John Spruill Jr. Submitted photo

The First Universalist Church of Auburn has awarded its 2023 Rose Window Award to John Spruill Jr. of Sabattus.

Recipients are models of Unitarian Universalist principles and make exceptional contributions to their faith community.

Board Member Betty Lynne presented the award at Auburn UU’s annual meeting in June, in recognition of Spruill’s significant impact on the health and vibrancy of the church, according to a news release from the church.

Spruill and his wife, Paula, joined the church in 2014, and each became active in many efforts. John is active in Music and Worship Associates circles, he’s on Team Worship Tech, and also involved in the annual Ferry Beach retreat, leading workshops and behind the scenes.

Most know him as a thoughtful, inspirational lay leader, preaching on many Sunday mornings and bringing warmth and light to dense and difficult topics. If Spruill is not at the pulpit or singing in the choir, he is up in the booth digitally recording worship service.

Spruill has hosted the church’s annual All-Music worship service and Gospel Sunday, and led several book studies on race for the Social Justice Committee. In the greater community, he serves the plight of the unhoused by working to build a coalition of churches to support a community homeless shelter.

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