From the associate minister of religious education

You’ve probably heard by now that I’ve accepted a position as the minister at the UU church in Cohasset, Massachusetts. I’ve had a great 13 years at UUCPA, but I decided it was time to look for new professional challenges, and to move closer to family. Of course I’m sad to leave UUCPA. I’ve greatly enjoyed watching children grow up over the years. I’ve also really enjoyed getting to know the adults at UUCPA. My last Sunday at UUCPA will be June 5, and I hope to see you some Sunday morning before I leave.

I’ll still be at UUCPA for a couple more weeks after that. I’ll be on study leave from June 6 through 12. Then I’ll be on staff for Ecojustice Camp from June 13-17. Right after camp, we’ll start driving to Massachusetts. It’s important to remember that the professional standards for ministers require that I have no contact with UUCPA for at least a year after my departure. This allows the new religious educator to get established. Besides, I’ll have my hands full in my new congregation!

Brooke Bishara and Amy Morgenstern are heading up the search committee to hire a new religious educator. The job has been posted nationally, and I expect some high-quality candidates to apply. Once the new religious educator is hired, I’ll do whatever I can to make sure they have a smooth transition.

In the meantime, our CYRE programs are doing surprisingly well. Attendance at Sunday school is getting close to where it was before the pandemic. The Senior High Youth Group is small but active, and they’re a fun group. We’re already beginning to see new families show up to check out UUCPA. I’m especially encouraged at how many preschoolers and younger children there are. I feel confident that UUCPA’s CYRE programs have a great future ahead.

See you soon,
Dan Harper