Let’s start with the great news. With robust participation from the Congregation, and 275 recommendations, we now have a proposed Settled Minister Search Committee – and it is fabulous!  Bill Elder, MC Gaylord, Mary Highberger, Meg Hoke, and Ron Partin would bring a wonderful breadth of experience, expertise, and energy to the Search, as well as a deep and shared commitment to UUFH.  

Please join the meeting on May 8 (11:00am), to review and elect the slate; we need a quorum to do so! We’ll all want to thank them profusely, and applaud their willingness to take on this very important task. The work of the Search Committee should help shape the direction of UUFH for many years to come.

Now, the mixed news. While this year’s pledges average well above those of two years ago ($1,918 vs. $1,537), with great work from the Stewardship Team, so far we have roughly 25% fewer pledges. Phone calls will be made soon to remind those who have not yet pledged that there is still time to do so, and any additional support will be very important. Also, while not everyone pledges regularly most do make a contribution, so please let the bookkeeper know how much you plan to give so that the Finance Committee can build a budget (and not cut important programs unnecessarily). It is critical to note, however, that, even if we match last year’s contributions, we will still face a growing budget deficit, now with fewer possible sources of other income.

There will be much to consider at the Annual Meeting in June as we weigh options for the future. A new Settled Minister will be another welcome shot in the arm as we come out from the pandemic, but we’ll need to think about what the Minister – and the Congregation – will need to rebuild our membership and strength. And that, we must do:  our mission is too important not to move forward, with vigor, passion, and renewed commitment.