HDS - OMS - Field Education Handbook

23 Pine Street
P.O. Box 425
Milford, MA 01757
Phone: (508) 473-3589
Email: e-church@rcn.com

Project: This site offers varied experience in a small, dynamic church. The First Unitarian Universalist Church of Milford is a liberal congregation of 75+ members, with 30 children registered for Sunday School. The worshiping community includes people who describe themselves as theists, atheists, and pagans. In addition to worship and education programs for all ages, the congregation runs the Milford Community Supper - a hot, nutritious meal served on Sunday nights. Active small group programs for adults include: WomenSpirit, Drumming Circle, Journey Groups, and Five Leaves book discussion. The church is located in downtown Milford, a small urban center surrounded by affluence. Congregants range in age from late twenties to mid-eighties; with the majority aged 30-50. They are gay and straight, single and partnered, wealthy and poor. The church, through the office of its minister, is active in Greater Milford Interfaith.

Student Involvement: The student may elect, through the learning contract, to experience many aspects of ministry, including: 1) planning services with the Minister or lay leaders; 2) preaching regularly; 3) leading adult education programs; 4) working with a committee; 5) developing specialized ministries related to the Milford Community Supper or the congregation; and, 6) developing outreach programs. Weekly schedule: Sunday mornings 9:00-1:00 for worship, coffee hour, and discussion groups; additional hours on a weekday.

Arts of Ministry Competencies: Preaching and Worship. Pastoral Care and Counseling. Religious Education and Spiritual Development. Administration and Program Development.

Harvard Divinity School

Ministry Studies

Field Education Handbook