In the Interim . . .

In addition to the regular shared responsibilities of ministry, we have a particular set of goals during this interim period. These goals are commonly agreed upon by many denominations, including the UUA:

1. Claiming and honoring the past and healing its griefs and conflicts.

2. Illuminating the congregation’s unique identity, its strengths, its needs and challenges.

3. Encouraging new leadership to emerge.

4. Renewing linkages within and beyond the UUA.

5. Enabling the congregation to renew its vision, strengthen its stewardship, prepare for new professional leadership, and engage its future with anticipation and zest.

These don’t happen in a linear fashion, and may not be perfectly completed during the interim period, but it is clear that progress in these areas improves the odds of a successful relationship between the congregation and settled minister. If you have ideas that would further any of the above, please tell me or one of the Transition Team members, Tom or Mary McMurray, David Jepsen, Diane Martin, or Brenda Linley.

We have had workshops and conversations to explore the past, and I would be glad to meet with you if you didn’t participate or have more to say.

Now I invite you to consider what UUSIC is called to do and to be. I suggest that this discernment be grounded in what’s right about this congregation. Let’s talk about when this group has been at its best and consider how to build on your strengths.

I invite you to think on these things, to talk about them, and to pray on these things. And I suggest that we meet on Saturday May 16 from 10:00 AM to 2:00 PM to begin the conversation. RSVP to Tyler at admin@uusic.org so we can plan for refreshments.