Over the past several weeks, more than seventy congregants participated in conversations about deepening engagement with our 5 Guiding Statements and exploring the possibility of adding a second full-time clergy position. Thank you to everyone who attended, shared ideas, asked thoughtful questions, and listened carefully to one another.
One message came through with clarity: these conversations should continue. Every table at our June 14 Congregational Collaboration Session concluded that we should continue exploring what a second clergy position could look like for our congregation. Many also spoke about the importance of building a sustainable model of ministry that prepares us well for the future.
As we discussed the potential shape of such a position, several priorities consistently emerged. Participants placed the highest priority on someone who would work collaboratively with the Senior Minister in providing pastoral leadership to the congregation. There was also strong support for expanding opportunities for spiritual formation and learning, strengthening our work of justice by connecting people with opportunities to serve, growing our engagement with the university community, and continuing to develop our digital ministry and online presence.
The conversation also reminded us that ministry is never simply about a list of responsibilities. Many participants emphasized the importance of seeking someone whose gifts would complement those already present within our staff and congregation, helping us deepen relationships, strengthen community connections, and prepare for the years ahead.
Over the summer, the Deacons and Leadership Team will continue reflecting on what we heard, considering these insights alongside our current staffing realities and financial capacity, and shaping a more complete proposal. This work will include a draft position description and candidate profile to bring to the congregation for further conversation in the fall.
Thank you again for engaging this process with thoughtfulness and hope. We are grateful to be part of a congregation that is willing to listen deeply, imagine faithfully, and discern together as we seek to Connect to God, Connect to Community, and Do Justice in ways that are both financially sustainable and faithful to our commitment to congregational discernment.
For further information:
June 14 – What we Heard
Janet Margeson, Deacon Chair
Sheila Stanley, Deacon Vice-Chair
David Clarke, Leadership Team Chair
Ben Lemphers, Leadership Team Vice-Chair
