I would like to take the opportunity this month to reflect on our ministry. Several years ago, in consultation with our interim minister at the time, our congregation decided to hire a Developmental Minister – a type of lead minister who has special skills and experience. We had already determined developmental goals to strengthen the health and mission of the congregation, and we were very fortunate that Rev. Tim Temerson agreed to join us in this position.

Rev. Tim started as our Developmental Minister in August 2022, meaning that he is now in the middle of his fourth year with us. In this time he has led us through the creation of a new mission statement and strategic plan, and deepened our stewardship ministry. He works closely with the Board, Rev. Leia, and other leaders to implement the plan and oversee the administrative functioning of the congregation. He has also worked tirelessly to build relationships with partner organizations in town. This is, of course, in addition to leading the Sunday services, which are perhaps more visible to many members and friends of the congregation.

Whenever I come into the sanctuary on Sunday morning, or visit the Social Hall afterwards, I feel the strong positive energy of this congregation. We are doing so many good and important things, both in our local community and in the wider world. If you notice the announcements each Sunday, there are so many ways to get involved. While Rev. Tim certainly can’t and doesn’t run all those things himself, he plays a critical role in leading our congregation in this challenging time.

The developmental ministry does not have a set timeframe. It is often four to seven years, based on the needs of the congregation and the relationship with the minister. Our contract with Rev. Tim is year-to-year, and gets renewed in March of each year, in line with the budget planning for the coming church fiscal year (which runs July to June). At the February Board Meeting, the Board will be voting again on whether to extend Rev. Tim’s contract for another year.  There is no question in my mind that we should continue this wonderful partnership. If you read our recent updates on the progress of the strategic plan, you can see how well we are progressing, and yet how many pieces remain in progress or are yet to be started.

I’m very excited at how far we’ve come in recent years, and I look forward to the coming years. Please feel free to contact me or any Board Member with any questions or thoughts you might have.

Submitted by:

Carol Gardner, President