Guide to In Care Programs for Those Preparing for Ministry

Acknowledgements

This guide was written by the Rev. Kelly Dignan, with input from others who have worked on Unitarian Universalist in care programs. Funding for this project was provided by the Panel on Theological Education.

Contents

Several congregations and districts have developed and piloted systems for supporting people preparing for or considering ministry. This guide presents proven methods by which lay leaders and ministers can help to share the future of our faith via in care programs. Follow the links to learn more:

Introduction and Foundations

• Introduction to In Care Programs
• Foundations
  • History and the Excellence in Ministry Report
  • Program Components
  • Covenantal Theology
  • Learning Models

Benefits of In Care Programs

• Congregations and Lay Leaders
• Ministers
• Candidates and Aspirants
• Seminaries
• Unitarian Universalism

Alignment with Other UUA and UUMA Programs

• Fulfilling the Call
• Mentoring Programs
• Continuing Education Opportunities

In Care Pilot Programs

• Mountain Desert District Pilot Program
• Metro New York District Pilot Program
• Joseph Priestley District Pilot Program
• Pacific Southwest District Pilot Program
• Prairie Star District In Care Program
• Eden Seminary, St. Louis, In Care Program
• Pilot Program Testimonials

Implementing an In Care Program

• Involve Congregational Life Staff
• Form an Assessment and Planning Team
• Assess Student Needs
• Seek Funding
• Appoint a Project Facilitator
• Build Relationships with Theological School
• Appoint a Denominational Representative
• Seek Broad Support
• Form a Learning Community
• Appoint a Liaison to Students
• Recruit, Select, Train, and Support Vocational Advisors
• Define Vocational Advisor Role
• Establish Student Leadership
• Form a Steering Committee
• Organize Communications and Documents
• Offer Discernment Support
• Support Isolated Aspirants and Candidates

Program Resources

• Ingathering and Orientation
• Discernment Support
• Calling and Discernment Small Group Conversation
• Discernment Stages and Characteristics
• Student and Minister Gatherings
• Elements of a Covenant
• Formation Reflection
• The Clearness Committee
• Model for Ministerial Case Reflection
• Theological Reflection
• Weekend Retreat
• Ministerial Fellowship Committee (MFC) Interview Preparation
• Partners Discussion
• Year End Blessing Ceremony
• Creating a Portfolio