Dear UUP Congregation,
Re: UUP BOT and COSM Response to Rev Mary’s Resignation
It is with great sadness that we acknowledge Reverend Mary Foran’s decision to bring her time with UUP to a close at the end of June, 2016.
UUP began its relationship with Rev. Mary almost five years ago. Once an independent lay-led congregation, we have experienced through our journey together how powerful and vital a partnership with a professional minister can be. Offering us the best of pastoral care and spiritual leadership, with powerful support for creating inclusive community and genuine social justice, Rev. Mary’s full-time commitment often took her well beyond her half-time position. Her enthusiasm, creative energy and gentle wisdom have guided UUP into an era of growth for which we are profoundly grateful.
In light of this development, the Board of Directors, in consultation with the Committee on Shared Ministry and Rev. Mary, has decided to hire an Interim Minister. We are united in our belief that this will best support us as we navigate the transition and engage in the reflection needed to discern our next steps as a congregation.
It is with affection and appreciation for all Rev. Mary has taught us, shared with us and inspired in us that we begin to process this new reality. Over the next four months, UUP leadership will work closely with Rev. Mary, the congregation, and district resources to help create a smooth transition and move into the future that we envision together. Along the way we will make sure there are plenty of opportunities to process feelings and have questions answered. The first of these opportunities will be this Sunday, March 13th, after worship. Please join us to share your responses, reflections and ask whatever questions you are holding in this time of change.
We have deep gratitude for the journey we have shared and for each opportunity to live our sacred, transform through love and act with courage that our time together has brought us.
We wish Rev. Mary every success and much joy on the path ahead.
In love and faith,
The Board of Trustees and the Committee on Shared Ministry
Carol West, President of the Board of Trustees
Dean Watson, Chair of the Committee on Shared Ministry
Richard Duffin, James Coyne, David Perry, Sharon Davie, Ed Hootstein,
Jodi Boyle and George Beeler