Search Committee Report

Your search committee is happy to report that the end of our search for a new minister is in sight! Following our review of approximately 60 candidates, in January we began focusing on our top four candidates, all of whom we interviewed via computer videoconferencing in January. We are in the process of inviting our top two candidates to come to Hawaii so we can hear them preach in a neutral pulpit and get to know them better. Then we will make our final decision. We expect the final interviews and selection process to take place in February and March. Barring any unusual circumstances, we plan to be ready to present our selected candidate to you for your vote and approval as soon as we can this Spring.

We are an open and affirming congregation, and our candidates reflect that philosophy. We have worked hard to give each candidate fair consideration to embrace the principles of our faith. The final top candidates we have interviewed include male and female, straight and lesbian. We are excited by the talents represented in these candidates. Each has his/her own talents, strengths and weaknesses, just as do each of us. We know we cannot demand perfection but we are looking for the person who can best stretch us, so we can grow toward perfection together!

We so appreciate your continuing prayers, support and patience.

Ellen Godbey Carson and Linda Rich, Co-Chairs, Search Committee

(January 27, 2009)