What is an Installation? 

An installation service formally celebrates the covenantal relationship between a minister and the congregation that has called the minister. Installation services most often occur within the first year of a settlement and marks both the minister’s and the congregation’s successful completion of the ministerial search process which included months of self-examination, diligent work and discernment for both minister and congregation. 

The congregational vote to call the minister, held during the minister’s candidating week, is the act that leads to the installation which celebrates the joy both parties feel for having found one another, and their agreement to enter into a covenant of shared ministry. 

The Installation isn’t something the congregation does for the minister; rather, it is a co-creation that honors and celebrates the promises the minister and congregation are making to one another and to their shared UU faith. 

The Service of Installation includes guest clergy and we are excited to welcome Rev. Tom Schade to deliver the main message as well as other guest clergy who will participate in the ceremony, including: Rev. Eric Cherry, Rev. Leon Dunkley, Rev. DL Helfer, Rabbi Goldwasser, Rev. Jeannette Bessinger with a special virtual call to worship from UUA President Rev. Sophia Betancourt.