A newly ordained UU minister!

Several UUSS members, two ministers, and three staff members attended the ordination of our former ministerial intern on Sunday afternoon, March 9. Rosemary was ordained by the Unitarian Universalist of Petaluma (UUP), the congregation where she and her brother grew up and where her parents are founding members. Our own Irina Tchantceva played the piano; Anthony Tavianini conducted a choir with six UUSS singers joining the Petaluma choir. Many instrumentalists too! Rev. Lucy delivered the Charge to the Minister and Rev. Roger offered Rosemary the Hand of Fellowship on behalf of all UU ministers (text is below). There was a video prayer by her college chaplain and a video blessing from the president of the congregation Rosemary serves, both in Massachusetts. At a time when the world longs for brave and grounded spiritual leadership, we wish Rev. Rosemary a long and fruitful ministry.

Collegial Hand of Fellowship

extended by the Rev. Dr. Roger Jones

The Ordination of Rosemary Dodd

March 9, 2025                         Unitarian Universalists of Petaluma

The ritual of offering the hand of fellowship is an ancient one.  It is a gesture of welcome, a promise of support, and a sign of covenant.

In the New Testament’s Letter to the Galatians, the Apostle Paul writes that he was welcomed with the right hand of fellowship from three of the disciples of Jesus and brought into their ministry of healing, fellowship, and proclamation.  In Puritan New England, Congregational ministers extended this welcome to newly ordained colleagues among them. And for hundreds of years, Unitarian and UU ministers have reached out this hand of welcome.  Our innovations include that it doesn’t have to be the right hand, and it may be followed by a hug (with consent).

Reverend Rosemary, you have been ordained into our ministry, and you have made the commitment of membership in the UU Ministers Association, our professional organization.

By doing so, you have joined a web of connections and support, entering our covenant of ministerial trust, ethical accountability, and mutual support.

Your colleagues are here for you, and we count on you to be here for us.  We will be praying for you and your ministry, all through your ministry.

Now, on behalf of all of our colleagues, I extend to you this expression of our good faith. I offer you the hand of fellowship.  Welcome!