Beyond Categorical Thinking

"Will the new minister hear me? Will my concerns and needs be met? Will the minister understand what I'm living with? How will the community respond to our minister?"

In answering these questions, a picture of the 'ideal minister' (categorized by age, gender, gender identity, nationality, physical ability, race, and sexual orientation) comes to mind. With this picture in place, it can be easy to unintentionally exclude ministers who fall in certain categories. At times, as we get caught up in comparing candidates to our 'picture', we can even forget what it is we hoped for in a minister.

On Sunday, April 1st, 2007, UUCT will participate in the Beyond Categorical Thinking (BCT) workshop offered by UUA for congregations involved in the search for a new minister. The UUCT Search Committee and Board of Trustees invite all congregational members, leaders, and friends to participate in this workshop.

BCT is designed to promote inclusive thinking and help prevent unfair discrimination in the search process for a new minister. This program includes a Sunday morning service with BCT workshop facilitators followed by a 3-hour workshop. In the workshop, UUCT attendees will: Consider the hopes, expectations, and concerns they have for a new minister; Learn more about the ministerial search process; and explore how thinking categorically about people sometimes interferes with choosing the best candidate.

Come on Sunday, April 1, 2006 and participate in this UUA-sponsored workshop lead by Mary Ester Johnson and Amanda Schuber. Lunch is provided!

Contact Pat Benedict if childcare is desired at pntb3781@aol.com

The selection of a minister is important! The Beyond Categorical Thinking is an opportunity for everyone to be part of the process!