It’s FINALLY spring! Which means, it’s also the time of year when we take a moment to check in about how we’re doing as a community and how my ministry is serving our congregation.

A few years ago the board did a comprehensive evaluation of my ministry and all our shared ministries at MMUUS and, while amazing, it took A LOT of volunteer hours! As a result, the board decided to do those deep dives every five years, with lighter annual check-ins in between.

This year, our wonderful Committee on Ministry (COM)—LeeAnn McKinney, Eric Petit McClure, Richard Pearson, and Kevin King—is handling this review. They’re looking not just at my work but at the whole picture of our congregational health. Because let’s face it—I can’t do this work alone! The magic of MMUUS happens when we all bring our hearts and hands together.

The COM would love to hear your thoughts about my ministry and our shared ministry. Please remember that we don’t accept anonymous feedback—your name will be attached, and both the COM and I will see what you share. They’re collecting thoughts until May 6th, so reach out to any COM member before then if you have something to share.

And as a reminder, you don’t need to wait for a formal review to talk with me. My door is always open for conversation, whether you’re bursting with joy about something happening in our community or have concerns you’d like to discuss. I’m here year-round for those conversations—not just during this review season!

Also, keep an eye out for the flip chart at church where you can jot down what you think are our congregation’s notable accomplishments and successes this fiscal year. It’s so energizing to celebrate our journey together!

I love you all so much, and I look forward to starting Year Eight together this summer!

Rev. Jo