Have you ever tried to learn how to crochet? Crochet projects always look like something anyone can do (and I’m sure that’s true, given enough experience and patience!). I started learning how to crochet many years ago when I was trying to branch out my craft skills. I learned quickly that the hardest part is beginning.
The very, very beginning is creating the slip stitch, a knot on the hook. Then you have to create a chain, a whole line of stitches one after another. Both of these steps are before box 1. You’re going along like this is the easiest thing ever – no problem!
Then the pattern tells you to move to the next row and create a stitch in the chain of stitches. Now things get interesting. Box 1 in this image is labeled begin but we know that there were actually several steps before this one. What they’ve helpfully done in this image is mark the spot where the crocheter is supposed to create the first stitch in the first actual row. If you follow along, you can successfully complete this step and this row.
Now, most patterns don’t come with these helpful images. Many times I have struggled with figuring out which stitch I’m supposed to use to begin the next row. It can be very frustrating! Depending if you’re doing a single, double, or even triple stitch determines which stitch to begin with. When I’ve been in this situation, I’ve found youtube videos to help me out or taken them in person to someone who can help me figure it out.
Beginning a new shared ministry can be quite similar to beginning a new crochet project. Some things are similar across the majority of our UU congregations, but others are quite different due to geography, culture, and history. Some onboarding activities are the same – signing tax documents, getting keys, etc, but others are different based on the culture of the congregation.
The very, very beginning – just like creating the first chain of stitches can seem predictable and reliable. It’s the next stages of beginning, like the actual first row, where things can get tricky. This is where all of you come in.
Over the next weeks and months I will be reaching out to individuals and groups to both observe and ask questions. Like the youtube videos and reaching out to crochet experts I mentioned earlier, you all are the experts of St. John’s and I very much need your ongoing support and patience as we navigate this brand new shared ministry.
In the beginning I will make mistakes. I will probably say the names of rooms incorrectly, I might accidentally refer to a committee or team by the wrong name. I need your help to learn about St. John’s history, culture, and etiquette (every congregation has its own etiquette and behavioral expectations!).
The truth is, as a human who tries hard to be authentic, I will probably continue to make mistakes as I learn and grow. But I believe in SJUU and your ability to love and support all people, even your brand new Developmental Minister. Thank you in advance for welcoming me and supporting me as we move into the next stage of SJUU’s shared ministry. I am so grateful to be part of this UU community.
Rev. Karen