It is with great joy that we share the news that our beloved Minister of Faith Development, Rev. Leia Durland-Jones, will be receiving the 2026 Angus MacLean Award for Excellence in Religious Education from the Unitarian Universalist Association (UUA). Rev. Leia will receive the award at the upcoming UUA General Assembly, which will be held in June.

The Angus MacLean award is named for one of the most important religious educators in the history of Unitarian Universalism and is presented annually to a religious leader who has made an outstanding contribution to UU religious education.

Rev. Leia has served the UU Congregation of Charlottesville for almost 34 years, first as our Director of Religious Education and then as Minister of Faith Development. Rev. Leia’s leadership has been pivotal in the development of UUCville’s outstanding faith development program for children, youth, and adults. In addition, Rev. Leia provides administrative leadership, works closely with the Board of Trustees, offers pastoral care, engages in social justice work, leads both adult and children’s worship, teaches classes, and so much more!

Rev. Leia also contributes to Unitarian Universalism beyond the walls of our congregation. She has served as a leader in LREDA (liberal religious educators’ association), as a mentor and coach to UU religious educators, and as a guest preacher in other UU Congregations. She has led workshops and trainings for the UUA, has been an editor of UUA curriculum materials, and a co-author of the UUA’s Family Ministry Training.

We will celebrate Rev. Leia’s award during the Sunday service on May 10. In the meantime, feel free to write or email her our own congratulations for receiving such a distinguished honor and for her many years of extraordinary service to UUCville.
Way to go, Rev. Leia!