Process for New Minister of Music Position
At the annual congregational meeting in June, the members of FUUN took a big step when they authorized an “internal search” for a minister of music with Jason Shelton as the sole candidate. To get everyone up to speed with where we are in this process, here’s a brief Q&A.
Q. So what’s an “internal search”?
A. That’s a term used when there is vacant minister position, and the congregation has decided to consider a current staff member as the only candidate for the position.
Q. Wait, we have a vacant minister position? What about Rev. Seavey?
A. Well, we don’t actually have a vacant minister position at this time, but this is the minister of music position that has been talked about off and on for a few years.
Q. Is there a job description for this minister of music position?
A. We do have a draft of a job description. It is posted elsewhere on this page. One of the things that will happen between now and March 30 is that this draft will get finalized, considering input from the congregation.
Q. So, is this like a promotion?
A. Sort of, but the transition to this new role is a little different than a traditional promotion. A minister must be “called” by the congregation rather than hired by the board as is a member of the staff. Since a call involves a congregational vote, it’s very important that members get involved in the process so they understand the pros and the cons of this transition. Over the next few months, there will be opportunities to learn more about Jason’s credentials, accomplishments and aspirations through a packet he will be preparing as well as face-to-face gatherings with Jason.
Q. What impact will there be on the budget?
A. Because of the raise we were able to give Jason in the current fiscal year, we do not anticipate that his total compensation will change much in the coming year, but it will be allocated between salary and housing. The Board will be considering the details of this at an upcoming meeting.
Q. When will the vote take place?
A. We anticipate the vote will occur at a special congregational meeting in late March. By then, our expectations of Jason in this new role should be clear, and any potential impact on the operating budget should be known.
Q. Who’s on the transition task force?
A. The members of the task force are Dariel Mayer, Doug Pasto-Crosby, Ann Morse, Alan Leiserson and Richard Bird. We are all available for questions at any time. We even have our own email address: MusicTransition@firstuunashville.org, so don’t hesitate to send us your thoughts or questions. |
