Pastor Search Draws Near

From Tidings October 4, 2019

Pastor Search

‘Expeditious but not careless’

A Congregational Meeting will be convened on October 20 to launch the search for a new pastor at Holladay UCC. Members will be asked to elect a seven-member search committee nominated by the Spiritual Gifts team.  If approved, the committee would begin the process of issuing a church profile and seeking a candidate. The Church Council will consult with the committee on whether the focus will be on an interim pastor or a settled pastor. 

The meeting notice was issued by Interim Moderator Carl Adams last Sunday after an extended conversation attended by more than 50 members. Seated in a circle and urged by Pastor Fred Evenson to listen carefully, the group shared a range of opinions on actions the church should take as Fred departs for a UCC church in Rhode Island. Moderator Adams outlined options for pastoral leadership, both near and long term.  The possibilities included supply pastors, a bridge pastor, a sustaining pastor, an “intentional interim” pastor and, ultimately, a permanent or settled pastor.

Explaining  the process

The group appeared in agreement that HUCC should seek a settled pastor, but opinions varied on how quickly to move.  “Can’t we short-cut this process?” asked one member.  “Take the time that we need — don’t rush,” said another. Another member summed up concisely, saying the church should  “move expeditiously but not carelessly.” Church Council will consider ways to assure pastoral leadership while the search is conducted.   The Rev. Chelsea Page said she will stay in her called position as associate pastor for youth and families, a part-time post, but possibly could extend her work week (with council approval) during the gap between when Fred departs and a bridge or other temporary pastor is in place. 

Want to search?

If you are interested in serving on the search committee, contact Interim Moderator Carl Adams or Spiritual Gifts team leader Carol Copene.

Conference minister to visit

The Rev. Sue Artt, Rocky Mountain Conference minister, will be at HUCC to meet with the congregation in the sanctuary from 6 p.m. to 7 p.m. on Monday, October 14.  She’ll also meet with church leaders and clergy. 

Dates to honor the Evensons

Please join the congregation after worship on October 27 for a potluck lunch to honor Pastor Fred and his family.  The following Sunday, November 3, will be Pastor Fred’s last sermon at HUCC so please attend then to say farewell, godspeed, and express our appreciation for Fred’s many contributions to our community.