We shared some exciting news at the Annual Congregational Meeting on Sunday. I’ll share that news with you again here in case you missed it on Sunday.
The Session held their annual retreat on Saturday. A large portion of that meeting was dedicated to assessing Unity’s needs and creating a long term staffing plan. The Session spent time in prayer–praying specifically for wisdom and discernment. After much prayer and discussion, the Session came to an unanimous decision.
The Session voted to create hiring teams for two positions:
First, the Session authorized a hiring team for a full-time Children’s Director. The children’s area has experienced tremendous growth over the past year, and we believe that fully staffing this position ensures that our children will continue to learn and grow in their faith for years to come. We have 27 children who are 4 years old or younger on our rolls right now! That does not include the growing kindergarten to 5th grade age group. We are extremely excited to dedicate staffing to our youngest disciples.
The Session has also authorized me to notify the Presbytery of our intention to call an Associate Pastor. This pastor will be responsible for three primary areas: youth, mission, and pastoral care. As we know, the process to call a pastor can be lengthy. That is why we are beginning this process immediately. The manse will be included as a portion of the Associate Pastor’s compensation package.
I am excited to have a pastor that is specifically dedicated to serving in these areas. Our middle and high schoolers will benefit from a seminary-trained pastor that is committed to helping them grow in their faith during their formative years. Our missions teams will benefit from a pastor who will advocate for them throughout the church while offering their wisdom and expertise. And as our church continues to grow, it will be crucial to have two pastors dedicated to pastoral care during times of sickness, hospitalization, or crisis, as well as to support existing groups such as the Prime Timers and Presbyterian Women.
I should note that both of these positions do not exceed the total personnel funds that were previously budgeted.
I project that calling an Associate Pastor will take 12 to 18 months. During the interim period, we will pursue hiring two part-time interim positions. One interim position will work 10-15 hours per week and assist me in caring for our youth. The second interim position will work part time and will assist me with pastoral care (if you know any retired PCUSA pastors in the area, let me know)!
I am thrilled about the future of Unity with our additional staffing positions. If you have questions, don’t hesitate to reach out to an elder or to myself for more information. Off we go!
“Don’t worry about anything; instead, pray about everything. Tell God what you need, and thank him for all he has done.” Philippians 4:6.
See you on Sunday!
-Pastor David
