News: August 22nd, 2025

When I was first asked to write about the upcoming installation of Dr. Bossen as our settled minister, I hesitated. Not because I’m shy (definitely not the case), but because I had never even heard of an installation—much less attended one.

Writing about things I know little about is something of a specialty, so I went searching. Wikipedia failed me, but Rev. Cooper came through with a UUA guide that explained both the process and the why. Here’s the short version: it’s a really big deal. Installation formalizes the covenantal relationship between Dr. Bossen and our congregation—a journey that began more than six years ago when Colin became our Senior Minister.

At that time, our church had something of a reputation—let’s say “challenging” (the polite UU word for “yikes”)—after two decades of frequent ministerial turnover. During his interim and development ministry, Colin helped heal old wounds, build up our staff, and led us in clarifying who we are and what kind of church we want to be.

This past March, after the Search Committee completed a formal process and made its recommendation to the congregation, we when asked if he’d consider becoming our settled minister, and he said yes. The congregation voted overwhelmingly in favor—and now we prepare to celebrate his installation, where we will make public our mutual commitments to carry out the mission and vision that we created during the Developmental Ministry.

Many of Colin’s colleagues and local clergy will join us, and the installation team will soon share volunteer opportunities. Like any good assembly, someone has to bring the flowers, greet the guests, and make sure the cake arrives. I hope you’ll pitch in and join us for this joyful day.

With gratitude,
Joan Waddill
Board President