Summary:
In this sermon, Reverend Alice King addresses a Unitarian Universalist congregation regarding the formal process of becoming their called settled minister. Having already served the community for eight years as a contract leader, she acknowledges that while she cannot offer the novelty of a stranger, she brings a deep, authentic relationship and a proven history of service. She explains that a formal “call” signifies a mutual, long-term commitment to social justice, shared spiritual growth, and organizational stability. King emphasizes the concept of shared ministry, where the responsibilities of the church are distributed between the clergy and the lay members rather than resting solely on her. Ultimately, she invites the congregation to move beyond the status quo to embrace a bold partnership rooted in courage, transparency, and love.