The Survey: What We Heard (Part 4): Congregational Strengths
Earlier in this series, we
reported the results of questions in the Congregational Survey that asked what
keeps you engaged at First Unitarian, what challenges you think our church
faces, and what ministerial qualities you seek. This week we will be focusing
on what you reported as our congregational
strengths.
In the open-response section of the Survey, you were asked:
“What current strengths does our congregation possess
that you would like to see maintained or developed in the immediate
future?”
The most commonly given answers were: music, lay leadership, welcoming community, the Faith Development
program, the building, and our worship service.
Also mentioned were the church’s history and tradition, the UU
Sisterhood, and the development of the Caring Circles.
Here is a word cloud that shows the words that were most often
used in your responses to this survey question about current strengths.
Using your responses, we described
our congregational strengths in the Congregational Record (CR), which is the
long document that was unveiled to prospective ministers last week. Here are some excerpts from that section of
the Record:
“Our strength lies in the
warmth of a welcoming community as we live in the light of our faith and honor
our religious heritage. The wisdom of our liberal faith tradition and the
spiritual freedom we have celebrated here for more than 225 years is the
foundation upon which we build.”
“Our large and vibrant
choir is a key element in Sunday worship. Periodic performances of sacred music
and instrumental works are magnificent and well attended.”
“Strength and commitment
are evident in the dedication and involvement of church leadership. These active
and competent men and women envision, plan, and work for the future of the
congregation.”
“Historically,
preaching--strength from the pulpit--has drawn in and involved people with the
church. We have been guided by intelligent, spiritual, and engaging sermons.
Services have effectively integrated the elements of message, music, and
community.”
“Our Faith Development
Ministry is a vital part of our continuing growth and strength. We cherish our
children and invest in their spiritual growth with relevant, creative, and
inspired programming.”
“Finally, the church
building itself is one of our strengths. The magnificent architecture speaks of
a sacred place…. The church steeple can be seen across a large portion of the
city. Lit at night, it seems a focal point of peace, hope, and beauty.”
Next week, we’ll report on how you defined “good preaching”!
—The
Ministerial Search Committee (MSC): Jesse Anderson,
Alison Barrows Ronn, Jane Beckwith, Noel Cary, Shannon Kirshenbaum, Diane
Mirick (Chair), Lee Reid
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