For the greater good: how long-term ministries benefit Unitarian Universalism

Date
2017
DOI
Authors
von Courter, Wendy
Version
OA Version
Citation
Abstract
Unitarian Universalist congregations suffer from short-term ministries, requiring focus on transition rather than faith development and congregational vision. This thesis suggests that long-term ministries are advantageous, and explores factors contributing to effective long-term ministries. The method was to interview clergy serving eight or more years in congregations and following other long-term ministers. Interviewees were then brought into dialogue with leadership theory, theology, and past studies of the topic. The analysis reveals benefits for Unitarian Universalist long-term ministries, including increased stability, trust, vision, resilience, and spiritual maturity. The thesis concludes with proposals to support long-term ministries more widely in Unitarian Universalism.
Description
License
Attribution-NonCommercial-NoDerivatives 4.0 International