Ministers provide spiritual leadership and pastoral care to their congregations, as well as administrative oversight. They also serve as moral and ethical role models, embodying Christ’s teachings in their personal lives and professional responsibilities.
Becoming a Minister is a career path that begins with a spiritual calling, typically nurtured in a religious community. Ministers may pursue formal education in a theological field and complete ordination requirements, which vary by denomination. They are able to inspire and encourage their congregations, as well as teach Bible studies and lead other educational classes. They are responsible for officiating at important life events, including weddings and memorial services. They work with musicians to create and direct worship services, coordinating and incorporating arts and other multisensory elements. They are also familiar with the latest technological advancements in worship, and they keep up with changing trends.
Outside the church walls, Ministers are often involved in social change efforts grounded in their UU values. They collaborate with other faith leaders, participate in local activism, and articulate faithful positions in the media. They understand issues of race, power and privilege and work to dismantle systems that oppress people.
Some Ministers oversee whole government departments, influencing the work of thousands of public servants and the spending of billions of dollars. At the other end of the spectrum, some Ministers are largely spokespersons who meet with groups that aren’t big enough to attract a more senior colleague, or they might be in charge of managing specific high priority relationships.