Getting Ready for Ministry Days

Caucus Spaces at Ministry Days

For our upcoming caucus time on Friday, June 19 (schedule here) we are trying something new: we will be using open space technology techniques to organize in the moment, in emergent groups based on our needs, identities and interests. This is so that those of us with multiple marginalized identities have access to a variety of options and do not have to pick our “identity du jour.” Colleagues who do not have any marginalized identities will be able to form ally groups as well.

As many of you know, Open Space Technology follows 4 principles and the One Law of Open Space. The One Law says that you, as a participant, are responsible for your participation and contribution – and for leaving the space when you no longer feel able to participate and contribute. Leave without fanfare or pronouncements; go find another thing to participate in. When you join a new space, follow the flow of what is already happening; take a beat before you make a contribution in the new space.

The four principles of Open Space Technology are:

1. Whoever comes is the right people
2. Whenever it starts is the right time
3. Whatever happens is the only thing that could have
4. When it’s over, it’s over

If you’d like to read more about Open Space Technology, this user’s guide is an excellent resource. 

We're looking forward to experimenting with you! Feel free to email Julica if you have any questions.

Time with UUA President and Executive Officers of the UUA

As is our tradition, we will be joined by UUA President Rev. Dr. Sofia Betancourt and the Executive Officers of the UUA. To help shape a meaningful and responsive conversation, we invite you to submit questions in advance. Doing so allows the Executive Officers to prepare thoughtfully and bring the perspectives, information, and resources most relevant to our time together. Please send your questions for Rev. Dr. Sofia Betancourt and the Executive Officers to the UUMA Executive Team.   Update Your Zoom Ministry Days will once again be hosted on the Zoom Events platform. In order to make this the best possible experience for you and to help with the breakout room process as needed please take a moment to makes sure your computer is operating the most recent version of Zoom. Here is an article about how to update your Zoom Client that may help.    If you had trouble with joining a breakout room at the Annual Meeting please join Hannah Franco-Isaacs on Tuesday, June 8 at 4:00 pm ET/3pm CT/2pm MT/1pm PT. Click here to join meeting at the scheduled time.   We also recommend, if you are able, to use a computer to attend Ministry Days rather than a tablet or phone; we will be glad to welcome you no matter how you join!   If you didn't opt OUT of a snack and swag box you should have gotten an email from SnackMagic/Stadium inviting you to order. Make sure you do that soon so they can make it to you by Ministry Days. Canadians – they have a Canadian distribution center so order knowing they don't have to clear customs!