What We've Gotten to Know About Sarah Stewart

We are excited to welcome Rev. Sarah Stewart as our Ministerial Candidate. Sarah’s experience at Starr King Fellowship and her well-written application materials intrigued us from the beginning of our process. In her subsequent Skype interview, she spoke eloquently of her calling – her work in pastoral care, in creating worship, and in leading her Fellowship. Throughout her Pre-Candidating Weekend (twenty hours of in-person contact), the Search Committee was impressed with her ministerial demeanor. Her intelligence, professionalism, and preparation were always in evidence. Reverend Stewart ministered to us, offering readings to open and close our interview session. She understood the materials we had provided, from the detailed descriptions of our church to the financial data and the draft employment agreement.  She anticipated and addressed our questions. She showed good boundaries and possessed the stamina necessary for such a busy and stressful weekend.

On Sunday of Pre-Candidating Weekend, Sarah preached at a “neutral pulpit.” The service was marked by balance, beauty, and coherence. Sarah connected the readings, poems, music, hymns, Time for All Ages (especially impressive), and the sermon. The latter was informed by spirituality, science, and Sarah’s pastoral experiences. It conveyed a powerful message about the sharing of human vulnerability.

If called, Sarah would come to us with a well-refined personal approach, but also with the goal of intensive listening to find out who we are and where we are going. She has the presence and work ethic to lead our staff and our community. It would be foolish not to expect bumps and missteps along the way. But Sarah possesses the experience and the demeanor to help us all address disparities constructively. Among the things that most impress us is her history of addressing any professional weaknesses, be it through hard work, taking classes, or seeking mentoring. It is clear to us that Sarah will continue to grow as a minister.

Sarah Stewart is a person who possesses quiet strength, whose wisdom is more guiding light than lightning strike. When we meandered during our all-day interviewing session, she refocused us, gently guiding us even though we were technically conducting the interview. Sarah has the ability and the wisdom to help us find the clouded truth in what we already know—to create a space where meaning is found. Seeing the familiar, seeing what is true with new eyes, and moving us out into the world: These are some of the things we think Sarah Stewart can bring us. 

• To learn what the MSC sees and admires in Sarah, click here
• For Sarah's own words about herself and her ministry, you can access her Ministerial Packet by clicking here. [Note: Please ignore the "Login" button. Simply click on any of the tabs.]
• For additional sermons and writings, you can access Sarah's blog by clicking here.