Ministerial Relations Committee

Function

The Ministerial Relations Committee (MRC) acts as a problem solving intermediary between the minister and the congregation. We solicit feedback from the congregation to help the minister set her priorities for the upcoming year. We respond to concerns expressed by the minister or members of the congregation.

The committee conducts an evaluation of the minister annually and an assessment of the church’s ministry by surveying the entire congregation every third year. A survey was conducted in the fall of 2003.

Your feedback and concerns

Both the Rev. Liz and the MRC hope that people feel comfortable bringing a problem, concern, or constructive criticism to her directly. However, if you or your committee are uncomfortable or unsure about approaching her, please speak with a member of the MRC, leave a letter in the MRC mailbox in the church office, or send one of the members an e-mail. (Because of the sensitive nature of many issues, e-mail is not the preferred method of direct communication. E-mail may be good way to set up a time to talk with a committee member on the phone or in person.)

Confidentiality

MRC members are appointed by the minister and the Board of Trustees. The committee functions independently of both parties to maintain and enhance the quality of the relationship between the minister and the congregation.

Meetings of the MRC are closed and confidential. Anyone bringing a concern to the MRC is assured of confidentiality and also anonymity, if desired. Topics might range from sermon subjects to ministerial performance issues or from programming challenges, as a result of rapid church growth, to anything else that has to do with church ministry. UU minister Robert T. Latham defines ministry as “anything a congregation does in pursuit of its religious mission to its own membership and the wider community.”

Let’s hear from you!

The MRC is not just a “committee of last resort.” Dealing with concerns before they mushroom out of control is always more effective. The MRC welcomes your feedback on the ministry of our church. For a list of this year’s members, contact the church office or our minister. The MRC members look forward to hearing from you.

— Last modified 05-05-04. Based on Kate Kuhn’s article of April 2003