The Rev. Tom Schade announces his resignation from First Unitarian Church of Worcester, as of January 2013.
He is leaving in support of his spouse, Sue, who has accepted the position of Chief Information Officer for the University of Michigan Hospitals and Health Centers.
The Schade's will be re-locating to Ann Arbor, Michigan.
The text of his letter to the congregation follows
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Dear Members of First Unitarian Church.
I have some big news for the church and congregation: I will be leaving the ministry of First Unitarian in January 2013.
Why?
Sue Schade, my wife, has accepted the position of Chief Information Officer for the University of Michigan Hospitals and Health Centers. She will be starting in November, moving to Ann Arbor. I will be following her in January, staying here to allow an orderly transition. I am leaving the ministry here to make it possible for her to follow her dreams, just as she allowed me to do so when we came to New England.
Being your minister has been the greatest joy and satisfaction of my life. (So far.) So much so, that I do not intend to seek another parish anywhere else, but to turn to other ways of encouraging religious liberalism: writing, consulting, teaching.
What happens next? First Unitarian Church of Worcester has not conducted a full, open search for a new minister since 1983. The UUA, however, helps dozens of congregations make these transitions every year. They will help you find an interim minister to serve you while you organize and conduct the search for your next minister.
You are a strong and healthy congregation with good habits and strong leaders. You have a sense of your mission and where you are trying to go. You have an excellent professional and administrative staff. You will do well, grow and thrive in the months and years to come. I am confident and optimistic for you.
And I am sad, too. We have done good things together, especially with Rev. Merritt. We have had some wonderful times, especially in hour of worship on Sunday morning when the power of our community and shared faith is most alive. I will miss you.
Much more to come.
With great affection,
Tom Schade
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