An Introduction to the Contract to Call Process
Dear friends,
For the past four years, Rev. Denise Gyauch has served our congregation as our contract minister. Together, we have grown in trust, deepened our shared ministry, and clarified who we are becoming as a community of faith.
Now, we are entering a new and meaningful phase: discerning whether it is time to call Rev. Denise to settled ministry with the Greater Nashville UU Congregation.
The Contract to Call Process, recommended by the UUA, invites the whole congregation into learning, reflection, and conversation. Over the next several weeks, we’ll explore together what it means to call a minister to settled ministry. The Board has created a Contract to Call task force composed of Kristin Reveal, Carol Looney, and Ryan Davison in implement this process.
Step 1: Sunday, November 9, 11 am.: Worship Service and Sermon “The Call We Make Together” (Hybrid)
This special service will introduce the meaning and purpose of the Contract to Call Process. We’ll reflect on how congregations and ministers discern together, and how covenant, trust, and shared ministry form the heart of this decision. Please make sure to attend, either in person or on Zoom.
Step 2: Small Group Conversations
Following the November 9 service, we’ll hold small-group sessions where every member is invited to share hopes, concerns, and reflections. This is the time we can discuss your questions.
Each group will begin with a chalice lighting, covenant, and deep-listening guidelines. We hope all 51 members will attend one of the following sessions. The sessions will be facilitated by Kristin Reveal, Carol Looney, and/or Ryan Davison.
If you would like to have an individual session with a member of the Contract to Call Task Force (Kristin, Carol, or Ryan), you can arrange this after attending a small group meeting.
Zoom Sessions:
Wednesday, November 12 at 6:30 p.m.
Wednesday, December 3 at 6:30 p.m.
In-Person Sessions:
Sunday, November 23
Sunday, November 30
Sunday, December 7
You’ll receive a sign-up link in next week’s e-blast to choose your date.
Step 3: Your Voice Matters
After all small groups meet, the Contract to Call Task Force — Kristin Reveal, Carol Looney, and Ryan Davison — will compile a summary report for the Board and Rev. Denise.
The Board will then use this report to determine if the congregation is ready to hold a vote to call Rev. Denise as our settled minister. If we are ready, a congregational meeting will be set in 2026.
Why This Matters
Whether you’ve been here for years or are a new member, your presence and perspective are essential to this discernment.
Let us approach this time with open hearts, deep listening, and gratitude for the ministry we share.
In faith and community,
The Contract to Call Task Force
Kristin Reveal
Carol Looney
Ryan Davison
