Fabulous! Part II
Heather Millar, President
We experienced a highly successful Congregational Meeting on December 6th, thanks to the contributions of many. Gwen Schindler explained the details of the SAE Model that was introduced in our summer read of Subtle Acts of Exclusion. Gwen reviewed the terms and prescribed actions designed to help us behave in ways that promote healing and inclusion. Her slides include an explanation of the SAE Model can be viewed by clicking (HERE). Carrie Kotcho, Board member, reported why she fully supports and promotes the use of this Model. A beautiful break from all of the incoming information was provided by the UUCA Ensemble featuring Nicole Bruno and Nicole Rumeau singing a lovely new composition by Joshua Long, “Live a Better Way.”
Jackie Heimbuch reported on the work of the newly commissioned Stewardship Team. They have met with a consultant, Mark Ewart, who is knowledgeable about UUCA because of his work with us this past January. This Team is planning to reinvigorate our attention to stewardship as a spiritual practice and foundation for all our ideas of what we can and should do as a congregation. Stay tuned; more to come.
Linda Mundy presented plans the Nominating Committee is developing to publicize a process that is known and fair as they seek candidates who represent different segments of our congregation. She announced the open positions of President, Vice President, Board Trustee at Large and Nominating Committee. TThe Nominating Committee has posted information on the new Nominating Committee page. Click (HERE) for access.
Rev. John spoke briefly about the Share The Plate ballot that could be accessed by the link in the Zoom chat or by clicking the slider on the UUCA Homepage. Five months are already assigned to receive offerings: our Emergency Response Fund, UU Legislative Ministry, Anne Arundel Connecting Together (ACT), The Lighthouse and Annapolis Immigration Justice Network (AIJN). Members voted for the recipients for the remaining seven months. Results should be announced by the time this article is published.
Jannina Ortiz, Administrative Assistant, offered flexibility and expertise as plans were developed for the Congregational Conversations and the Meeting. Her work was crucial for preparing materials and publicizing information. Those up-to-date sliders do not just magically appear. Pam Ausiello, Director of Finance and Administration, worked extensively on preparing the proposed budget and keeping track of the numbers. She maintains our membership list, necessary for identifying who is eligible to vote. Pam was a key tech member during the Meeting including conducting our Zoom poll to approve the budget.
Others who participated on the tech team are Melanie Keller as head of this effort and Julie Burman and Peter Morse as support. Their work enabled us to finish our business ahead of schedule! Our Right Relations Committee consisted of Gina Williams, Erin Snell and Scott Eden. They attend our meeting with a special focus on our process and language and are available for congregants who have a concern that feels it needs attention. Rev. John and Rev. Anastassia and other Board members also participated, contributing to the realization of this Meeting.
To this extraordinary cast of characters who made this Congregational Meeting the success it was, I say THANK YOU! I am inspired and energized by all of the talent and dedication I witness at UUCA. Preparing for and conducting this meeting is just one example. THANK YOU UUCA!