From The President July 2011
Connecting to our Future Together
As you read this, TJMC-UU will be entering a new chapter in its long history as we welcome the Rev. Erik Wikstrom and his family to Charlottesville, and I move to the position of President of the Board of Trustees. To say that I am honored (and nervous) would be a major understatement, but I do so with a tremendous sense of excitement and promise.
This past week I attended a Board retreat and our June meeting where we discussed the many achievements of the church during the past twelve months and looked forward to the coming year. Much has been accomplished by far too many individuals to mention here by name but to each and every member of staff and our many volunteers, I offer a heartfelt thanks. But much remains to be done.
One concern that arose from our discussions related to a lack of “connectedness” some in our community have felt. Perhaps this is not surprising given our growth and lack of settled minister during the past three years, but it is a concern nonetheless, and one I take seriously. Clearly, one way to feel more “connected” is to “connect” but to do so requires personal effort, and the opportunity to do so.
Rev. Wikstrom has made it clear to us that he believes, as I do, in an open and collaborative style of leadership and it is in this spirit I trust we can create the environment whereby all can feel ‘welcome’ and ‘connected.’
As President I will work hard to provide opportunities for all voices to be heard but in return ask for your help. Please reach out through the proper channels: to be heard; to help others be heard; to ensure we stay connected to our future, together.
In Faith Ian Sole
President, Board of Trustees