The ministerial search process requires lay leaders to practice skills of holding confidentiality about details while being transparent about the process.
During the months before the process of selecting settled search team members, the board can share information about the overall search process and timing. Sharing an outline of what will happen during the search, and when (such as in a calendar that you can share) will help member and friends be prepared for the timeline and what will be required of them once the search committee begins its work.
Settled Search Timeline Overview
Year One
August
- Exit interviews conplete
- Interim Ministry begins
February-March
- Board reviews the search process with the UUA Transitions Director
- Board reviews compensation standards and recommendations provided by UUA
April-May
- The settled search team is selected via an inclusive process per the congregation’s bylaws
- Fill out Request Form for Settled Ministry Support by June 1
Year Two
July-August
- Search team retreat and planning
September-November
- Congregational survey
- Small group meetings
- “Break Barriers, Build Beliefs” Workshop
December
- Congregational profile published
January
- Ministers apply
February-March
- Search team reviews applications
- Initial and second interviews
- Reference checks
- Offer date in late March
Late April
- Candidating week
- Vote to Call
August 1
- Settled ministry begins
- Plan timing for ministerial start-up
- Plan timing for installation