Committee on Shared Ministry

The Committee on Shared Ministry (COSM) was established and began meeting in June 2022. Members are Susan Okun, Parry Murray, Margaret Kelso, Anne Jungerman, Bonnie Richardson, Chair, and Pastor Susan Panttaja, Minister. The purpose of COSM is to support the various ministries of NVUU, to support Pastor Susan, and to foster communication between the minister and the congregation. In the past, Ministers have had a Committee on Ministry which functioned in different ways depending on the needs of the minister.  UUA has encouraged the Committee on Shared Ministry to have a broader mission.

For the past 6 months COSM has been exploring options for how we may best serve the congregation. We have supported Pastor Susan in her preparation for Preliminary Fellowship (the UUA status required for ordination), and we have discussed topics that may have caused concern for members of the congregation. We do not make decisions on the management or function of NVUU, but we consider broader philosophical issues. We have provided guidance and feedback to the Board and to the Minister.

In the coming year, COSM will be planning the Celebration of Minister Emerita Status for Rev Bonnie Dlott, which will be held next Spring. We will also be helping to facilitate future congregational listening sessions, with the goal of facilitating the best possible communication within the Congregation.

We are available individually and collectively to listen to any joys or concerns you may have about NVUU. Feel free to contact any of us at any time.