April 10 2026

Something For the Moment 

Search Committee Announcement: We are pleased to share that we have completed our search for the Director of Ministries and Programs and have entered into a signed agreement with our selected candidate. Out of respect for the transition timeline in the colleague’s current role, we will hold the public announcement until later this spring. We look forward to sharing more with you soon and are deeply grateful to the search committee for the care and engagement that shaped this process. Committee Members: Carol Thomas Cissel and Sarah Lenzi, Co-Chairs, Ali KC Bell, Joseph Santos-Lyons, Cecilia Kingman, Robin Tanner, and Janette Lallier. Arran Morton, Scribe and Aija Simpson-Newbury, Chaplain

Ministry Days Scholarship Deadline April 15: How do UUMA Scholarships work? We have set scholarship deadlines such that on that day we look at the number of requests so  as to give the most aid possible.  We then send out notice in time for those requesting support to register before the coming deadline (the first Registration deadline is April 30). If you would like to be considered in the first round of scholarships, please complete this form. 

Something for the Journey

Janette M. Lallier, Director of Operations and Finance

There’s a particular kind of gathering that happens when we decide, together, that it’s worth showing up—not because it’s easy, but because it matters. Or maybe more simply: because we need one another.

The UUA General Assembly 2026 invites us into a new rhythm: part virtual, part in-person, and wholly communal. From June 14–21, we’ll move between the work of the association and the deep need for connection—business sessions early in the week, a spacious midweek pause, and then a return to shared worship, learning, and inspiration across locations.

It is within that midweek pause that we will gather for UUMA Ministry Days. We’ve intentionally shaped this time to be spacious—an invitation to lean slightly out of the pace of the week and into collegial connection, reflection, and renewal. Because we need one another—not only for the work itself, but for the tending of the spirit that makes the work possible.

Whether you join from home, with a local group, or travel to the Studio Site in Louisville, there will be space to connect. We’ll host simple in-person gatherings at the Galt House—meals, caucusing time, and opportunities to be together alongside the wider experience. However you arrive, you’ll be part of the same unfolding moment.

And there is something especially meaningful this year: the 206th Berry Street Essay, offered by Rev. Sarah LaWall, will be broadcast from the Studio Site itself. This tradition, carried forward for 206 years, has long been a moment hosted by the UUMA—marking the close of Ministry Days and the wider gathering of the GA. We are grateful and excited that the UUA will host the essay this year in their innovative Studio Site, a reflection of our shared commitment to connection, creativity, and the life we continue to build together.

If you’ve been waiting to decide, consider this your nudge. Registration is open, and your presence matters more than you might think. Register for GA today!  Register for Ministry Days too! 

Join us. Register now. Because we need one another—and this is one way we live that truth.

Something for Formation

Aspirants and Candidates are invited to these NEW MFN programs coming up later this spring. 

MFN Formation Conversation: 
UUA  Regional Staff – Local Companions on the Path
Tuesday, May 12, 2026  
4:00-5:30pm ET/3:00-4:30pm CT/2:00-3:30pm MT/1:00-2:30pm PT

This will be a chance to meet and learn about regional staff, and get special updates on the new “ministry residency” initiative.   Ministerial residencies are opportunities for a person in Candidate status to engage in a highly supported congregational ministry experience. The residencies are for one year and occur at congregations approved by UUA regional staff so bring your questions and bring a friend!  REGISTER HERE

MFN Formation Conversation: Let’s Talk! 
Time with the Ministerial Fellowship Committee
Tuesday, June 9, 2026  
7:00-8:30pm ET/6-7:30pm CT/5-6:30pm MT/4-5:30pm PT

Members of the UUA’s Ministerial Fellowship Committee will offer reflections on the work of credentialing and the changes on the preparatory path.  These events are a great time to fact check some assumptions and clarify concerns. Bring your questions and curiosity to this demystifying collegial conversation! REGISTER HERE 

Something Extra

Berry Street 2025 Essays and Video Up! We are very excited to share the wonderful Berry Street Essay by Rev. Leela Sinha as well as the response by Rev. Dr. Adam Robersmith. We apologize for these updates taking a long time to put out. We had issues with the video recording and thought that the only copy we had was of poor quality. With blessed tech help and some miracles, we are now able to offer you the entire video and response as well as the written copy of them both. Thank you for your grace in waiting. If the Berry Street Essay is new to you, you can learn more about the history of this conference and review the many essayists who have been selected to offer this illustrious address to our colleagues since 1820.

Reorganization at the UUA: Effective April 1, 2026, the team formerly known as Church Staff Finances (CSF/OCSF) officially launched as UUA Benefit Plans & Services — BPS for short. This reflects the role as the UUA’s dedicated team for retirement plans, health, dental, life and disability insurance, and now property and casualty coverage for UU organizations. Compensation and staffing consulting has moved to the UUA’s Congregational Life Team, where it continues to be led by Jan Gartner. Finally, a reminder of their newest project, Property and Casualty Insurance Access, can be found here.