This month, I join Rev. Joyce, Tim, Lindsay, and Autumn on UU Rockford’s program staff as Interim Senior Minister.
The “interim” part of my title means I come “pre-fired.” I’m here to walk with you through this season of transition and then, no matter what, I must move on. As my dad used to say: no ifs, ands, or buts. That’s the nature of interim ministry. I’m trained through the Interim Ministry Network to guide congregations through these steps, offering both support and perspective. Interim ministry has a unique freedom: you can say what you truly need for the health of your congregation, and I can speak what I believe needs saying, guided by love and reason, without worrying about whether it secures my job. That’s the gift of being “pre-fired.”
The “senior” part of my title simply means I’m stepping into the leadership role left by Rev. Matthew. On a staff with more than one minister, this is the customary title. My work will include partnering with the board on governance, mission, and leadership development, as well as helping shape your UUA Congregational Record into a bright, clear invitation for future candidates.
The “minister” part is the heart of it all. Since my ordination in 2006 (yes, nearly 20 years ago now!), I’ve understood ministry as lifting up truth, beauty, and goodness; caring for and nurturing the congregation; and venturing into the world to comfort the afflicted and, when needed, to afflict the comfortable.
This year, Rev. Joyce and I will share ministry in new ways. She will take the lead on pastoral care and membership, while I will focus on worship, governance, interim tasks, and empowering lay leadership.
Transitions often stir up anxiety, grief, and plenty of questions. Some may worry I’ll shake things up just for the sake of change. I want to reassure you: that is not my approach. Some congregations need deep restructuring, but UU Rockford is not one of them. I’ve heard you described as “solid,” “mature,” and simply “a good group of folks.” I believe that. So my work will center on listening, building consensus, fostering clear communication, and helping you move forward with confidence. Having served Unitarian Universalism in this region for many years—in Oak Park, Geneva, Evanston, and the Central Midwest District office—I’ve long respected this congregation.
Still, even for a strong community, change brings grief. Part of my role is to help us name and honor that grief, while also making space for joy, hope, and excitement about what comes next. Love has been shared here, and that love will now take new forms. Some faces will leave, and new ones will join. I promise to hold this tender space with care, attending to both loss and promise. I invite you to feel what you feel, and to honor it fully.
And of course—there will be questions. Our startup workshop with Rev. Sharon Dittmar next month will help us begin naming them together. I will also be weaving those questions into my sermons throughout the year. Even when they don’t sound like questions, trust that I’m holding them in mind. I’ll be listening.