“Affirm a call, bless a ministry, enact a sacred ritual.”
On Saturday, September 19 at 2:00 pm, at a special worship service, the White Bear Unitarian Universalist Church (WBUUC) members will ordain Laura Smidzik into the Unitarian Universalist ministry. All are welcome!
Questions and Answers about Laura Smidzik’s Ordination
Who is invited?
In addition to members and friends of WBUUC, we are expecting many guests, including Laura’s family, friends, and colleagues from United Theological Seminary, Unity Church-Unitarian in St. Paul, and First Universalist Church of Minneapolis.
Do I need to RSVP?
For childcare, kindly contact dre@wbuuc.org by Sept. 12. For special needs, contact lsmidzik@wbuuc.org by Sept. 12. Otherwise, simply plan to come.
Will shuttle service be available as it is for Sunday worship?
Yes, members are encouraged to use the shuttle service from the parking lot at the District Education Center. This will leave more room for guests to park in the church lot. Even better, organize a carpool.
Would you like me to bring food for the reception?
Volunteers will prepare and serve delicious hor d’oeuvres and desserts. If you would like to help set up at 1:00 pm, serve from 3:30-5:00 pm or clean up from 4:30 to 5:30ish pm, contact Tim Stoddard at timothy_stoddart@ml.com.
Shall I bring a gift?
A special offering will be requested for the Living Tradition Fund. Please bring a check book or a credit card for your donation. The 1988 General Assembly established the Living Tradition Fund and requested ordination offerings to it. Over the years, that request has become a tradition among us. The fund provides need-based scholarships for theological students, new minister assistance to reduce educational debt, and grants to ministers for emergency assistance. There will be a basket near the front door to collect cards for Laura.
What’s my role in the ordination?
In the Unitarian Universalist tradition, the congregation ordains ministers. By voluntary action, we, the WBUUC congregation, ordain that this candidate is qualified to minister within UU principles and hopes. WBUUC board vice president Laurie Kigner will lead the congregation through the rites of ordination. Our congregation will give her a stole to mark her ordination as Rev. Laura Smidzik. Members of the broader community affirm this rite as well.