Use this form to recommend up to 5 First Parish Members to be part of the Settled Minister Search Committee.
What is a Settled Minister Search Committee?
The Settled Minister Search Committee is a group elected by the congregation to lead the search for a new Settled Minister and make a recommendation to the congregation.
What they do:
- Engage the congregation in the search process
- Prepare the Congregational Record
- Review applications and interview candidates
- Recommend a candidate for Settled Minister
Size: Typically 7 members
This is an exciting and meaningful next step for First Parish. UUA guidelines shape the process, timeline, and responsibilities. Past committee members often describe this work as one of their most meaningful and fulfilling contributions to the community.
What qualities are we looking for in Search Committee members?
Per UUA guidelines, ideal candidates:
- Work well with others
- Listen deeply
- Represent the whole congregation, not just one group
- Can set aside corporate or academic hiring models in favor of spiritual discernment
- Do not have a personal agenda
- Are active members with demonstrated participation and willingness to lead
- Would interact well with ministerial candidates
What are the primary responsibilities of the Search Committee?
- Gather congregational input through surveys, small groups, and/or focus groups
- Create the Congregational Record (the primary document candidates review)
- Review applications, conduct interviews, and select finalists
- Host the finalist candidate at First Parish before the congregational vote
- Participate in hiring and compensation negotiations
How long is the commitment?
The Search Committee is expected to serve from May 2026 through September 2027, when the new Settled Minister arrives.
Who can serve on the Settled Search Committee
- Eligible:
- Current members of FP UU Arlington
- Members may nominate themselves
- Not eligible:
- Current Parish Committee members
- Current Transition Team members
The committee should reflect the full diversity of the congregation to build trust and remain connected to First Parish’s culture and values.
How are Search Committee candidates selected?
Selecting the Search Committee is a shared responsibility of leadership and the congregation. A thorough and thoughtful process is defined to help ensure a diverse group committed to the many facets of our beloved community.
Process overview:
- Every member is encouraged to recommend at least one person
- Recommendations may be submitted via online or paper form
- Parish Committee and Transition Team will follow up with members who have not submitted a form to ensure broad participation
After recommendations are collected:
- The Parish Committee reviews submissions
- A final ballot is prepared for the Annual Congregational Meeting
- Typically, nominations come from the top 12–14 most-recommended names
- Those individuals are contacted to confirm interest and availability
Election options (per UUA guidance):
- Present a slate of recommended candidates, or
- Conduct a competitive written ballot with names listed alphabetically
The Parish Committee may also appoint additional member(s) after the vote to ensure broad congregational representation. Such appointments are important and are considered as part of the process to ensure broad congregational representation on the search team.
When is the Search Committee confirmed?
The committee will be elected at the Annual Congregational Meeting Sunday, May 3, 2026.
Before the vote:
- Each nominee will submit a short biographical statement
- Bios and photos will be shared with the congregation in advance
Additional Resources
The UUA’s Ministry Search Handbook provides detailed guidance on the search process and committee roles.
