On Dec. 15, we had a discussion during and after the service about what the Board believes is our New Normal as a smaller congregation of under 120 members. Issues of sustainability and stewardship generated much discussion. UU congregations are independent and self-sustaining, which means our efforts at UUCP may be as broad or as focused as we are willing and able for them to be.

Last month I wrote about the power that comes with being real about What Is. I believe that UUCP is enough and is wonderful as is. That doesn’t mean that I don’t see room for improvement, but I also am realistic about what we are capable of right now. Congregations our size all across the country are finding they are unable to financially support a full-time minister. These congregations are being served by part-time ministers, contract ministers, and ministers who serve more than one congregation, or they are lay led. Our situation with Rev. Alice as a part-time contract consulting minister means we are similar to other UU congregations our size. And like those other congregations, we are doing really cool work that ignites the passion of our members. Not the least of these is our vibrant CRE program and our involvement with area faith groups through JUST Pensacola.

The Board and our Finance Team have an obligation to be good stewards of the money entrusted to this church by members and friends. When we had a full-time minister, the Finance Team would develop a Dream Budget and then would have to cut some $20,000 out of that budget based on the actual dollars pledged. Essentials were paid first: the full-time minister’s compensation package, utilities, and insurance. Items that were considered non-essential — such as program expenses and requests from the Ministry Teams — were cut to balance the budget.

Since transitioning to a part-time minister with less of the budget designated to the minister’s compensation, we have been able to support our programs more robustly. Funding for the Ministry Teams and programs reflects our congregants’ desires for innovative, thought-provoking, fun, and meaningful services, music, CRE, fellowship, and social justice activities as well as a beautiful, safe, and well-maintained building and grounds.

Having a part-time contract minister has taken some getting used to but has not hindered us in our efforts. In fact, Rev. Alice brings ideas and possibilities that have rejuvenated our church in many areas, like Sunday Services. She has helped the Board work with the congregation on understanding our WHY and aligning our activities with our mission to Celebrate Diversity, Strive for Justice, and Inspire Love. She also has ministered to us during many recent losses and changes in the dynamics of UUCP.

Catholic priest and philosopher Thomas Merton said, “What we have to be is what we are.” At UUCP, we are open-minded, loving, justice-seeking people. Diversity, justice, and love drew us to UUCP and ground us here as part of this Beloved Community. May we keep being all that we are.

Until next time,

Lauren Anzaldo
Board President