Pastor Search Committee Update to the Congregation

What are those people doing over there? And why is it taking so long??

I'm sure those questions have crossed more than a few minds over the past months as the Pastor Search Committee does its work. While progress may seem glacial at times, to those on the committee it's been weekly meetings since last July with countless hours spent reviewing more than 55 resumes, websites, sermons and 20-plus page candidate profiles . . . so much for the "paperless society!" Well folks, I have good news, great news and best news to share.

The good news is we're making real progress. In February, we will be entering the interview phase with our top candidates. That should last 4 to 6 weeks, depending on scheduling and the number of candidates we want to interview.

The great news is we have a very rich pool of people to talk with. We are blessed with applicants of deep faith, leadership, scholarship and maturity from which to draw. In the coming weeks, the committee will have the wonderfully difficult task of shortening the list to just a few people.

But here's the BEST news!  We asked applicants, "What attracts you to our church?"  Over and over we heard what a visionary, progressive and inviting congregation we are.  Our mission, programming and, most of all, Spirit spoke to many - here are some excerpts from candidates:

• "Your commitment to remain downtown when all the other churches appear to have left impresses me . . . the strategic plan indicates a clear and articulate vision which both affirms your past and engages your future. Who would not want to be a part of a church like that?"
• "As I read Bellevue's profile I feel my spirit rise . . . I am excited to serve a church community that sees itself as a place of sanctuary, spiritual formation and worship for all people. It is no accident that Bellevue First Congregational is where you are - you have a purpose and resources to share."
• "I am attracted to First Congregational Church because it appears to be the church I would choose to attend if I lived in Bellevue . . . you revel in mystery and celebrate questions . . . your church is ONA and committed to feeding the hungry, housing the homeless, giving others a hand-up . . . offering quality worship to your church family and to the community is a priority . . . you seem to have weathered leadership disappointments, disillusionments, and struggles, and still have a sense of empowerment and identity as a congregation. It is wonderful to know that your church is there in the heart of your city, being God-with-us."

That's us they're talking about and we should be justifiably proud. We've worked hard and persevered and are better for it.

We're getting close to the finish line and exciting times are ahead in the next three months. Thanks for your involvement and comments, and for keeping the Pastor Search Committee in your prayers.