The Handbook states their spouse is invited. I see information where the whole family is invited for Candidating week, but no mention of pre-candidates. Anyone have any information?
It is someone who has made it past the initial interview stage and is being seriously considered by a search committee and is, in return, seriously considering that congregation. It involves touring the church, seeing the area, more in depth talks, etc.
The way UUs pick their ministers for their congregation is through selecting a representative committee from the congregation (and that can mean a teenager is part of it) to vet ministers who wish to lead the congregation.
Our faith is not hierarchical; we do not get assigned a minister by our national denomination. A called minister is one that has been vetted through a search committee from the congregation and affirmed by the vote of the entire congregation. It’s a big part of the Unitarian Universalism system of congregational polity - as in, congregations get to make these important decisions for themselves.
Of course, the minister and their family should ALSO feel comfortable and welcome in the congregation before that vote is even considered! It’s a getting to know you process on both sides, when done well.
They sometimes do. Especially if they are considering a move.. or if they have an especially small one who would struggle to be without them. I have seen both.
I would! They should see the area, meet other kids.
What is a pre-candidate?
It is someone who has made it past the initial interview stage and is being seriously considered by a search committee and is, in return, seriously considering that congregation. It involves touring the church, seeing the area, more in depth talks, etc.
Interview stage for what? Membership?
Seems to be interviewing candidates for a new minister.
A called minister!
The way UUs pick their ministers for their congregation is through selecting a representative committee from the congregation (and that can mean a teenager is part of it) to vet ministers who wish to lead the congregation.
Our faith is not hierarchical; we do not get assigned a minister by our national denomination. A called minister is one that has been vetted through a search committee from the congregation and affirmed by the vote of the entire congregation. It’s a big part of the Unitarian Universalism system of congregational polity - as in, congregations get to make these important decisions for themselves.
Of course, the minister and their family should ALSO feel comfortable and welcome in the congregation before that vote is even considered! It’s a getting to know you process on both sides, when done well.
I had the same question.
They sometimes do. Especially if they are considering a move.. or if they have an especially small one who would struggle to be without them. I have seen both.