There are seasons of ministry.
The Planting – The season begins with the foundational work of seminary, internship, and guest preaching wherever and whenever you can, the first call to settled ministry provides ample opportunities to practice all you've prepared for and experience those moments nothing a book or internship could ever prepare you for. It's that preliminary season of growth, sort of early spring when the green sprout just peaks out of the earth signaling the start of growth.
The Nourishment - The season of nourishment unfolded over my ten years with UUCFW, a period where my heart was more open that I ever knew it could. Together, the Fort Wayne congregation and I engaged in deeply meaningful ministry, always serving each other well. We navigated both triumphs and challenges. We mourned the loss of beloveds and celebrated milestones. This journey not only expanded my heart but illuminated the aspects of ministry I need in my life, to allow my heart to sing and inspire me to embrace new melodies. In my current ministry setting, I serve as a three-quarter time contract minister for a Federated Church. This means the membership is made up of people who identify as United Church of Christ, Unitarian Universalist, and neither. The nourishment of embracing our christian roots, exploring the lectionary, and serving monthly communion to a small church of ten to twenty people have given me new experiences and appreciation for the congregational life of a Federated Church.
The Blooming - The season after you've been nourished through the rain, wind, and sunshine, bringing all you've learned and absorbed through practice into a new garden. I am ready to enter this next season of ministry in a relationship with a congregation that is willing to engage in the work of spiritual growth to equip ourselves to help transform our world. I seek a community that recognizes that spiritual growth is for all, regardless of age or tenure of membership in a congregation. In this next season of ministry, I hope the community understands shared ministry, where clarity of authority and healthy boundaries is transparent which empowers all to live into the mission of the congregation.
Finally, the time has come for me to embrace a new chapter of full-time ministry! My family has experienced two moves in less than two years, changes in health and caring for aging family members. While we have grown resilient, I am ready to bloom fully in a new full time role. Now settled in Central Massachusetts, nourished by experiences, and fortified by the unwavering commitment to serve wholeheartedly our living tradition grounded in convenant and action. I am eager to serve with a congregation that is committed to living the radical welcome, saving message, and the search for truth and freedom inherent in our faith.