Conference Minister Interim Plans
As soon as Alan announced his plans to retire to the Board of Directors, the Board began the process of filling the vacancy. Recognizing the importance of the interim time for the Conference, The Executive Committee immediately contacted Susan Towner Larsen, Minister for Conference Relations, in the UCC national settings in Cleveland office for assistance. In a conference call she assured Barry Fillman and me that intentional interims are available. She suggested that a Search Committee be appointed and we select some dates to schedule meetings with her. In the meantime, she e-mailed several documents to “get the ball rolling.”
The first order of business was the creation of the interim search committee. I appointed the Executive Committee of the Board of Directors, with the addition of Barry, to serve. At this time, we are awaiting a response from Susan as to the acceptability of the dates I e-mailed her. Since three of the five persons are delegates to General Synod, and Susan will also be in attendance, the meeting will not occur until after GS 28.
There are several benefits to calling an interim. First is the speed of finding a person who is trained in assisting in the transition. Second is that training that Intentional Interims have is invaluable to a Conference. Third the process smooths the transition between Conference Ministers by inserting a kind of “breathing space” between the two tenures.
As we enter this time, let us pray for God’s Presence, celebrate the ministries we are doing in the name of Jesus and look to the Holy Spirit to guide us into the future to which God is calling us. Challenges ahead? Certainly. Faith, hope and love. We have these gifts in abundance.
We will keep you informed about our progress each step of the way.
Peace, Earl J. Mostoller