The Minister Search Committee was given a unique challenge last summer: search for a minister who can provide everything we want for very little money - or don't because maybe a minister isn't the best solution. It's tough to search for something when you don't know what you're searching for!!

Alas, after months of inner-searching by holding cottage meetings, conducting research, and much discussion a solution has taken shape. The Search Committee, in conjunction with the Executive Committee, took all of the information gathered from the congregation and identified the strengths we already have and the areas that could use some professional help. Unity Church is comprised of a very dedicated, caring, and talented group of members and friends. To really make the most of our existing strengths we need a professional who can provide the following: 1) continuity, 2) support, and 3) guidance. I like to think of this position as a "Coordinator of Ministry".

 

This "Coordinator of Ministry" would provide continuity by preaching once a month and by working with lay leaders to help develop and coordinate lay led services. Support would be provided by attending key committee meetings and providing professional advice and resources. And the Coordinator of Ministry would guide us towards our Vision by helping us operate more effectively and identify opportunities. In this way Unity can make the most of our existing strengths and shore up the areas where we need help.

 

This Coordinator of Ministry would work a limited number of hours per month allocated to Continuity, Support, and Guidance. The concept is that this person would not rely solely on Unity as their source of income. Potential candidate pools may include pulpit supply ministers interested in providing more than just pulpit supply, part time ministers looking to increase their hours, retired ministers who want to decrease their hours, or church consultants.  

 

The UUA is excited about this model of part time ministry and is ready to help us in our search. The next steps are to:

 

1) Hold a special congregational meeting to solicit feedback and support for this proposed "Coordinator Of Ministry" model.

2) Elect a third member to fill a vacancy on the Search Committee.

3) Get Searching!

 

Please contact the Nominating Committee if you would like to nominate yourself or someone else to fill the vacant seat on the Search Committee. (See below.) Once the nominating committee has a candidate to present we can call the Special Congregational Meeting and get this ball rolling!

 

Yours in Service,

 

Jason Gold

Be a Worship Associate and guide us through the morning worship service.  Follow the prepared worship script and get to know the worship leader of the day.  Time commitment is Sunday 10 am - 11:30. To volunteer contact Cheryl Brigante.

Host Social Hour in Parish Hall on Sunday after service.  Set out supplies for beverages and snacks, make the coffee and clean up after.  More detail here.  This is an easy way to meet new people. Time commitment is Sunday 10 am - 12:30.  To volunteer contact Anne Fredericks.

Help with children's Religious Education.   Follow the children into the Chaffin Room and offer to help.