COMPLETING THE LOCAL CHURCH PROFILE

Introduction: The UCC Local Church Profile should be completed by a representative group of people in the congregation: either the Search Committee or a special committee appointed by the governing board. As part of the process, it is essential that the congregation be given the opportunity to contribute information and offer perspectives through small group meetings and/or written surveys. Suggestions for these data-gathering processes (including sample questionnaires) will be found in Section Four of the Parish Life and Leadership Search Committee resource UCC Search and Call, A Pilgrimage through Transitions and New Beginnings.

As you prepare material for the Local Church Profile, remember to be as candid and honest as possible in your descriptions of the history, traditions, hopes, and dreams of the members of your church.

“. . . for the Spirit is the truth.” (I John 5:6b)

Statement of Consent: The first page of the Local Church Profile contains a statement that parallels the statement that ministerial candidates are asked to sign. In keeping with the covenantal relationship between a church and those it seeks to call, the chair of the Search Committee is asked to sign a statement on behalf of the church encouraging an open exchange of information.

Instructions for Selected Numbered Items*

#1, #2: Use the church name as it is known by your Conference and the UCC. If the mailing address is different from the street address, include both. If the church does not have a street address, describe the location.

#5, #7, #8: The Research Office of the United Church of Christ provides your conference with an 11 year statistical report for each, individual congregation. Much of the information you will need to complete items #5, #7, and #8 will be found in that report. (Figures are based on the year-

end reports submitted by your church clerk/secretary.)Your Conference/ Association staff will provide your committee with that statistical resource. Consult your own annual reports for the remaining items.

#6, #20, #21, #23, #32 These items should reflect data that was gathered from the congregation through questionnaires and/or small group meetings.

#14, #17 Consult the compensation guidelines for your conference before completing these items.

*Most instructions are included in the text of the Local Church Profile itself.

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July 10, 2016 Minister Date Position to be filled

United Church of Christ

LOCAL CHURCH PROFILE FOR LOCAL CHURCHES SEEKING NEW LEADERS

Local Church Statement of Consent

The covenantal relationship between a church and those called by that church to serve as pastors and teachers and in other ministerial positions is strengthened when vital information is openly shared by covenantal partners. To that end, we attest that, to the best of our abilities, we have provided information in this profile that accurately represents our church. We have not knowingly withheld any information that would be helpful to candidates. As the committee charged with the responsibility for identifying and recommending a suitable new minister for our church, we have been authorized to share the information herein with potential candidates.

We understand that a candidate may wish to secure further knowledge, information, and opinion about our church. We encourage a candidate to do so, recognizing that an open exchange of relevant information builds the foundation for continuing and healthy relationships between calling bodies and persons seeking a ministry position.

____________________________________________ ___________________________ Signature of Search Committee Chairperson Date

Church

Name: Church of the Crossroads

Address: 1212 University Avenue

City, State, Zip: Honolulu, HI 96826

Search Committee Chairperson or Contact Person

Name: Ehito Kimura

Address: 1212 University Avenue

City, State, Zip: Honolulu, HI 96826

Telephone: (808) 428-3561

E-Mail: SearchCrossroads@gmail.com

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July 10, 2016 Minister Date Position to be filled

LOCAL CHURCH PROFILE FOR LOCAL CHURCHES SEEKING NEW LEADERS

Please return the completed document to your conference or association office.

1. Church: Church of the Crossroads

2. Address: 1212 University Avenue

City, State, and Zip: Honolulu, HI 96826

Church Website: http://churchofthecrossroadshawaii.org/

3. Name of Search Committee Chairperson/Contact Person: Ehito Kimura

Address:

City, State, and Zip:

Telephone:

Email:

1212 University Avenue

Honolulu, HI 96826

(808) 428-3561

SearchCrossroads@gmail.com

4. Conference/Association Staff Person Assisting Our Church: Richard Kamanu

Address: 1848 Nu'uanu Avenue

City, State, Zip: Honolulu, HI 96817

Telephone: 808-791-5633

Email: rkamanu@hcucc.org

FAX: 808-521-7196

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MEMBERSHIP INFORMATION 5. Membership: (as reflected in the eleven-year UCC Statistical Report for our church; “est.” indicates the figure is an estimate.) Last Year 5 Years Ago 10 Years Ago a. # Church members 212 214 228 b. Average attendance at worship 95 103 120 c. Average participation of children/youth in C.E. 20 31 30 d. Average weekly participation in adult education 15 25 30 e. # Members who are ordained clergy 10 11 6. Profile of Congregation Estimate percentage of congregation. Each category should add up to 100%.

a. Age: c. Family units: 4 % ages 0 - 5 13 % couples with children at home 11 % ages 6-18 49 % couples without children at home

4 % ages 19-34 36 % single 10 % ages 35-49 2 % single parent with children at home 21 % ages 50-64 27 % ages 65-74 23 % ages 75 + b. Education level of adults: d. Occupation of adults: 0 % completed less than high school 4 % business 2 % high school graduates 4 % clerical 2 % some college/vocational school 1 % farmer/rancher 28 % college graduates 1 % laborer/manufacturing 68 % graduate school 72 % professional 2 % student 2 % tradesperson

14 % other

e. Employment: 47 % employed 8 % not currently employed

45 % retired

f. Describe the racial-ethnic makeup of your congregation:

We are a multiracial, multiethnic congregation, including Japanese, Chinese, Korean, Hawaiian, Pacific Islanders, Caucasian, African-American, Filipino and Indonesian.

“So we who are many, are one body in Christ . . .”

Romans 12:5a

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CHURCH FINANCES (Figures reflect the church’s annual reports as well as the eleven-year UCC statistical reports.) Last Year 5 Years Ago 10 Years Ago 7. Total Church Income 403,439 439,048 389,918 a. Members offerings and pledges 209,424 209,506 204,051 b. Interest from investment or endowments1 170 6,708 6,019 c. Principal reduction (endowments or investments)

d. Rentals 165,392 167,583 118,062 e. Special Fundraising 14,556 18,055 9,293 f. Other2 13,897 43,904 58,512 If the church has conducted an annual stewardship campaign, list results for the past two years: Goal (2015): $ 183,038 Pledges: $ 183,038 Actual Received: $ 176,765 Goal (2014): $ 143,000 Pledges: $ 143,000 Actual Received: $ 137,139 Last Year 5 Years Ago 10 Years Ago 8. Total Operating Budget 389,241 434,415 427,867 a. Our Church’s Wider Mission Basic Support 11,680 16,230 16,000

b. Our Church’s Wider Mission Special Support 1406 Unclear3 5184

c. Other gifts 4,700 11,750 6,826 d. Current local expenses 372,861 406,435 412,503 e. Annual capital payments N/A N/A 47,536 f. Other debt N/A N/A N/A

9. Identify UCC special offerings the church receives throughout the year and the amounts

from last year: $51 One Great Hour of Sharing4 $150 UCCP Disaster Ministries Project $1255 Neighbors in Need

1 The interest figures for "5 Years Ago" & "10 Years Ago" are a combination of dividends and interest, which were not separated out on the financial reports we received. 2 In 2015, we also received the following substantial grants, thanks to the grant writing of members: Freeman Foundation ($50,000), "Anonymous" Foundation ($75,000), Atherton Foundation ($30,000), and Cooke Foundation ($10,000). These were set aside or used for reroofing church buildings or beautification of them. 3 In the Crossroads annual report, there is a "Special Offerings Received" line with $17,418, but that seems quite high in comparison to the other numbers here, and while part of the number may be applicable here, it likely contains other items as well. The data in the "Special Support" line of the "Eleven Year Church Profile Based on Data Reported in UCC Yearbooks" is also higher than our internal numbers: 13,126 (2015), 11,295 (2011), and 5,728 (2006). 4 Last year we did not take a One Great Hour of Sharing offering as part of a service, but one individual made a donation nonetheless.

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“God is able to provide you with every blessing in

abundance.”

II Cor. 9:8a

10. Mission a. Beyond your contributions through the UCC, name the most significant local or

global missions/ministries or agencies that were financially supported by your local church last year and the amount of support:

Name Amount 1. UCC Transition House for Survivors of Domestic Violence $10005

2. Samaritan Counseling Center $1000

3. Pacific School of Religion $500

4. Kokua Mau Hawai'i Hospice and Palliative Care Organization $500

5. Kawainui Marsh Project (Wetlands Restoration & Preservation) $400

6. UCC Coalition for LGBT $300

7. Family Promise $300

b. What mission project has excited your church the most in the past three years?

Why?

Family Promise of Hawai'i has received wide congregational support and participation since 2006, when we became the first church on O'ahu to commit to the program. As noted in the "Community Characteristics" section of the church profile, homelessness is an ongoing, serious issue in Hawai'i, and has been a concern for us, both in terms of the individuals who find themselves homeless and as a larger social justice issue. Family Promise offers a structured way for us to use our facilities and energies to help homeless families with children to get on their feet. The families stay at Crossroads for a week, four to five times a year, and we are able to offer support in various ways such as donating food, providing meals, hanging out to talk and play with the children, sleeping at the church overnight, and laundering the bedding at the end of the week.

11. Indebtedness a. Total amount of outstanding mortgages/capital debt: $ 0.00 b. Total amount of other debt: $ 0.00 Describe: c. Are payments current? N/A 12. Capital Campaigns:

a. If the church has had capital campaigns in the last ten years, note goal and results: Goal: $ 350,000 Outcome: $ 232,260

b. What projects were undertaken as a result of your capital 5 According to our leasing agent, Colliers International, we are charging the Transition House $18,000 less in rent annually than Fair Market Value (FMV), which may be considered a part of our financial support for the mission.

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campaign?

Our last capital campaign ended in the summer of 2009. The congregation voted in June 2006 to undertake a $350,000 capital fund campaign in order to 1) retire debt remaining for renovating the sanctuary, 2) renovate the primary restrooms, and 3) establish an endowment fund to support the Health Ministry (part-time parish nurse). Although the initial amount sought was $350,000, pledges amounted to $229,980, and the church collected $232,260, slightly surpassing the pledged amount. The funds were enough to accomplish 1) and 2), but not 3). While we have not had an official capital campaign since 2009, members from our Property Use and Maintenance Committee (PUM) have personally approached members of the congregation in the last few years and raised significant funds, including $75,000 for reroofing the sanctuary and approximately $38,000 for repaving one of the parking lots. Donations from members last year also included $42,000 to help with the installation of a grease trap so we can turn our kitchen into a commercial kitchen, and $20,000 to install new cabinets in one of the church buildings.

c. Was there a mission or outreach component to the campaign?

X Yes No The second goal in the previous capital fund campaign, renovating the restrooms, was not only done with church members in mind. The congregation also intended to provide homeless individuals and others 24 hour access to clean, safe restrooms.

d. If a capital campaign is underway or anticipated, describe it:

Goal: $ Beginning Date: Purpose: A few years ago, we began reroofing the church buildings and broke up the project into three phases. We have completed phase 1 with the $75,000 of members' donations mentioned in 12b plus $50,000 in grant money, and phase 2 with $75,000 of grant money. The third phase will cost around $109,000. We have received a $20,000 donation towards that phase from one member, as well as a promise for $20,000 from another member, for a total of $40,000. While we have not actively discussed a capital campaign, one may be necessary to raise the remaining $69,000.

13. Assets held by the Church:

a. Reserves (savings): $ 0.00 b. Endowments/Investments (as of 12/31/15):

a. Principal: $370,454 b. Proceeds: $153,728 c. Total: $524,182

c. Describe buildings and property of your church except the parsonage:

The church campus includes the sanctuary, an administrative building and ancillary buildings—two small meeting/gathering rooms and a meeting hall—encircling an open grass courtyard. The buildings are wood frame and concrete, and the church is listed in both the State and National registry of historic places and buildings. The church owns additional property adjacent to the church including separate buildings that house an independent preschool program, a pottery guild structure and a caretaker's cottage. There are parking lots on two sides of the church property.

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As with any buildings, particularly ones worthy of being registered as historic, our buildings are aging and require attention to their maintenance and upkeep. In the past couple of years, people in the congregation have made considerable efforts to refurbish and beautify our buildings. This has included volunteer hours to do things like repainting interiors and forming the Sustaining Our Ministry (2014) team. This team has secured significant grants such as those from the Atherton and Cooke Foundations mentioned in a footnote above. Similarly, we decided as a congregation to work with a professional leasing agent, Colliers International, to become better stewards of our campus's potential. One piece of this has been the renovation of our kitchen so it can be licensed for commercial use. Our hope is that better use of our facilities will generate new income to help us maintain them, as well as "sustain our ministry"/activism in the community. To this end, the church council recently passed a motion stating that the first $22,750 of any new income we may realize from rentals through Colliers this fiscal year will be devoted to maintenance.

d. Is the church building (including sanctuary and offices) handicapped accessible? Yes X Partially (specify) ____________________ No _____ Is the pulpit handicapped accessible? Yes _____ No X e. If a building program is projected or underway, describe it, including estimated

date of completion: N/A

f. If the church owns a parsonage, describe it:

The parsonage is currently being utilized as a transitional home for women and children survivors of domestic violence in partnership with the O'ahu Association, UCC.

Address: Due to the nature of use, the location of the building is confidential.

Number of Rooms: 9 Number of Bedrooms: 5 Number of Bathrooms: 4

Description: a two-story wood frame and concrete building on a fenced residential lot.

Distance from Church: See above.

Handicapped Accessible? Yes ____ No____ Partial X

FINANCIAL SUPPORT OF MINISTERIAL LEADERS

14. If your conference has compensation guidelines, do you follow them?

yes _____ yes for some compensation items but not all X6 no

Does the church consider this position to be full time or part time? X Full Time _____ Part Time (specify) _____________________

6 The Hawai'i Conference UCC does not collect information for compensation guidelines. Instead, the conference provided us with the guidelines for Hawai'i compiled by the UCC Pension Board and the guidelines for the Massachusetts UCC. We are largely in line with those.

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How will church members be supportive of a part-time or bivocational pastor who may need another job to supplement the church salary?

N/A. The church currently needs a full-time minister.

15. Salary History

To provide a profile of salaries for the position you are seeking to fill, indicate salaries at the beginning and ending of the ministers’ tenure. Do not include interim positions. If a parsonage is provided, insert the letter “P” in the space provided. Provide information for the last 3 leaders or the last ten years.

Start Date End Date Year Salary Housing Parsonage Year Salary Housing Parsonage

a. Last 2010 42,000 23,000 N/A 2014 44,239 24,720 N/A b. Previous 1988 16,100 18,000 N/A 2008 25,054 40,000 N/A c. Next previous 1981 15,000 8,400 N/A 1988 22,210 11,100 N/A

16. During the above period, has your church ever failed to fulfill its financial obligations to

its pastor? _____ yes X no If yes, please comment: 17. Salary, Benefits, and Expenses Offered

a. Cash salary offered $ 65,000 Negotiable7 Conference recommended salary range: Information not available.

b. Housing: $ See the footnote for 17a. Housing allowance only Parsonage only Would consider offering either c. Customary benefits: X Vacation: 4 weeks annually X Maternity/Paternity leave X UCC Retirement Annuity (14% of salary and housing)

X UCC Life and Disability Insurance Benefits X UCC Health Benefits (_____ other health benefits) X UCC Dental Benefits (_____ other dental benefits) X Social Security/Medicare Offset X Continuing Education Funds ($750) X Continuing Education Time (1 week annually) X Sabbatical Leave (after 5 years of continued ministry, eligible to apply for a 3

month sabbatical, with the understanding that the minister will stay for at least one year of service thereafter in order to share and integrate her/his growth with the congregation and ministries of the church.)

Other benefits (specify) ________________________ 7 The minister determines how much of the total salary amount is to be classified as salary and how much is to be devoted to housing.

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d. Ministry Expenses X Travel Reimbursement X Meeting Expense Reimbursement X Books and Periodicals X Reimbursement of Criminal Background Check Fee X Moving Expenses

COMMUNITY CHARACTERISTICS 18. Population

a. Population of total city or town in which your church is located:

The island of O'ahu is incorporated as a single city and county government. The more densely populated “metropolitan area,” of which Church of the Crossroads is a part, is estimated to be over 400,000. The total City and County of Honolulu population recently passed one million. The other seven inhabited islands are lightly populated by comparison, with a combined population of 400,000, resulting in a state population of 1.4 million.

b. Describe the population by racial-ethnic category and identify the source of the

information:

Hawai'i is the most ethnically diverse state in the United States. One quarter of Hawai'i’s people are of mixed ancestry. Another quarter are white. Forty-two percent are of Asian ancestry, with the largest groups being Filipino and Japanese, at around 15 percent each. Hawai'i also has smaller but well-established communities of Chinese, Korean and Vietnamese extraction. Two percent are African American. Only seven percent self-identify as Hawaiian- or Pacific Islander-only, but well over a fifth of the total population is of mixed Polynesian ancestry. Recent Micronesian immigrants are a small but rapidly growing group (U.S. census update). In addition to the Crossroads congregation, the church is the home or venue of a Korean, two Chuukese and one Kosrae islander congregations.

c. The population averages about one percent net growth per year. Since statehood in 1959, the

population has more than doubled. The slow but steady trend is a proportionate increase in the white population, who have migrated from the U.S. mainland. Immigrants from the Philippines, Korea and Vietnam have tended to maintain the Asian proportion of the population. However, two prominent founding groups of Crossroads, Japanese and Chinese, have declined as proportionate shares of the population.

19. Economic Factors

Identify major sources of employment/income in your community: The economy of Hawai'i is based on a short list of main sectors: Tourism, the Federal government (chiefly the U.S. military) and construction/development. From our survey, it is apparent that most Crossroaders work outside the main economic sectors. Nearly three quarters work in professions, heavily in the areas of teaching, healing, providing

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support, research, and various forms of knowledge or artistic production. Only a tiny percent of the congregation is in business or trades.

20. General Description (Add *** if the information came from a survey of the congregation)

a. Describe three distinctive attributes of your community:

1. Crossroads at a crossroads: The Church of the Crossroads is aptly named for today. Much as the church is at a crossroads, Hawai'i itself feels to be at a crossroads. The excitement and net benefits of statehood have receded into the past. The composition of the population is changing substantially. Overreliance on development is divisive. Irritation with congestion is growing. Confidence in government is declining. Homelessness is rampant and rapidly growing. The cost of housing and general cost of living in Hawai'i are consistently at the top of the national list. Following the collapse of plantation agriculture, preservation of agricultural land is a constant, contentious issue. Global warming and sea-level rise are serious and immediate threats to the island. The native Hawaiian population, who provided the basis for interracial aloha, is increasingly aware that Hawai'i’s present status resulted from the illegal annexation of the kingdom of Hawai'i. Accordingly, a cloud hangs over the question of inclusion in what was traditionally thought of as the host culture. 2. High Well-Being: All that said, people in Hawai'i continue to report a high level of satisfaction with their circumstances. Typically Hawai'i is at or near the top of national studies of well-being. While people report irritation at traffic congestion, they speak well of their own neighborhoods. While people report dissatisfaction with the public school system, they give higher marks to their own district’s schools. The tradition of tolerance, sharing, and acquaintance remains strong. Advanced education and incomes are above the national averages. Along with heightened political consciousness, the Native Hawaiian people are engaged in a robust revival of cultural practice and language. 3. Potentiality: Despite problems, Hawai'i is still about great possibilities. The sociopolitical experiment in multicultural and multiracial solidarity, to which Crossroads made a pioneering contribution, is in an ongoing state of evolution. The native Hawaiian cultural revival is an inspiration, both to people in Hawai'i and to indigenous people around the planet. Since the reopening of Asian migration in the 1965 revision of U.S. immigration law, Hawai'i is again the western gateway. The University of Hawai'i main campus, located within a block of Crossroads, along with the related East-West Center, is a beacon of hope bridging the U.S. and the Asian Pacific. Under threat, Hawai'i is evolving as a center of conservation practices. Hawai'i is a research and development center. It is a center of Hawaiian, Polynesian, Pan-Pacific and East West cultural development and exchange. If its economic base is narrow, it is also solid. Hawai'i has a low unemployment rate and has been relatively stable in the face of national economic downturns. Hawai'i pioneered prepaid health insurance, as well as managed care systems, and continues to have one of the several highest rates of insurance coverage.

b. Identify major trends you envision in your community during the next five years:

1. An ongoing clash over rapid development and its impact on the social and physical environment.

2. Debate and struggle around the status of native Hawaiians and the relationship between Hawaiians and non-Hawaiians.

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3. Rampant homelessness

c. List three or four problem areas confronting your community that members feel your church should address:

1. Homelessness 2. Environmental stewardship and justice

3. Development/redevelopment, possibly even in our own neighborhood 4. Maintaining and redefining our tradition of inclusivity, diversity and multiculturalism

d. Indicate Mission Activities

1. In which your church participates as a part of its mission in the community: • Family Promise: Four times a year, up to 4 homeless families are housed and fed at

the church hall for a week. Families move from church to church each week • Weekly cooking for a homeless shelter, the Institute for Human Services (IHS) • Hawai'i Interfaith Power and Light, a faith based sustainable energy coalition • UCC Transition House, a transitional housing for survivors of domestic violence; the

house is owned by the church, and members participate in upkeep of the house and support of the program.

• Mohala Organic Farm, a model self-sustainability farm project for education and land ministry

• Project Dana, a group of voluntary caregivers for elderly and disabled persons • John 17:21, a ministry to people with disabilities (mostly developmental), providing a

monthly meal, social program and worship service

2. In which your church expects the leader you are now seeking to participate: The minister is expected to support laity in defining the church’s role and activities related to these mission efforts. The minister will need to be able to relate effectively and compassionately to homeless and mentally ill persons who occasionally visit the campus.

e. Describe how your church building is now being used by the community: Church of the Crossroads shares its sanctuary with four other congregations; all are "ethnic churches" – one Korean church, two Chuukese churches, and one Kosraean church. The campus also houses The Early School, a non-profit early education program (nursery and kindergarten). Crossroads also has provided use of its facilities to several 12-step groups and other support groups for many years. In partnership with the O'ahu Association, UCC, the parsonage now provides transitional shelter to women and children survivors of domestic violence (UCC Transition House). Our Weaver Hall is also widely used by the community for meetings and other community events.

f. Indicate the number of school districts from which members of your church are drawn:

one two X three or more

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CONGREGATIONAL LIFE (Add *** if the information came from a survey of the congregation)

21. Identify major trends you envision in your church in the next five years

We will continue to lose aging long time members who have been so involved in our church and have provided both financial support and leadership.

We have a number of young families and we hope to continue this trend, which would mean further developing our ministry to children, youth and families. This probably will mean making some changes in schedules and how we organize our work so that younger families are more able to participate.

Members desire to continue to provide a public witness for peace and social justice and to increase outreach ministries.

We will have more non-church related renters of our facilities as we seek to increase income from the property.

22. Planning

a. All churches do planning. How would you characterize the way planning is done in your church?

Short-term planning is done by Mission Teams and the Church Council in collaboration with the pastor. For our last longer-term planning (2013), feedback from the congregation was collected through a survey asking for concerns, satisfaction, and wishes in all aspects of our ministry. This information was given to the Mission Teams and the Pastor and goals and objectives were developed, discussed and approved by the congregation. Progress reports were shared at monthly Council meetings at the annual congregational meeting. It is time for us to engage in a new planning process.

b. What expectations do you have of the person you are seeking in relation to the

planning that takes place?

The Minister should be an integral part of the planning process, helping to develop a shared vision of ministry, and implementation of the plan.

c. When is the last time your church undertook a period of discernment and long-range

planning in an intentional way? The last strategic plan was done in 2013.

d. What were the outcomes of your intentional long-range planning?

Many of our goals were accomplished and we see this as an opportune time to rethink our priorities and develop a new plan.

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e. Does your church have any plans to undertake a period of intentional long-range planning in the future? Yes, the church is ready to develop a new plan and will wait to include the new minister in the process.

23. Reflections on Congregational Life

Comment on the following with what you believe to be the generally-held responses of the congregation. If more space is needed, use additional pages. (Add *** if information came from a survey of the congregation.)

a. Identify the three most important faith experiences or events in the history of your

church and the year each took place:

Event

Year

1. Founding of the church by a group of students as Honolulu’s first intentionally multiethnic, interracial church.***

1923

2. Providing sanctuary for military service personnel who did not want to serve in Vietnam for reasons of conscience. The church took a very public and controversial stand against the war, which strengthened the church’s commitment to social action but also resulted in some members leaving Crossroads.***

1969

3. Adopting and living our Just Peace (1992) and Open and Affirming (1993) covenants, as an affirmation of where our faith leads us as well as a spiritual witness to our community.***

1992-Present

b. Identify the most challenging faith experience or event in the life of your church in the

last three years and what the church learned from it:

Resolving our conflict with our former minister, experiencing the mediation process and working through our internal conflict and healing.

We learned many things:

We have a strong, caring community.

We have many members with leadership skills who are willing to give generously of their time and talents.

Clear communication and transparency are important and we could improve our skills.

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We have deeply-held values around care of our elders, inclusiveness, caring relationships, lifelong theological learning, service to the community, and speaking to the justice issues of our community and world.

We learned that we need to be clearer about expectations of the minister, the Council, and the congregation and about roles and responsibilities.

We acknowledged that we need to address concerns when they arise and work to resolve conflict before it festers and is harmful to all involved.

It has led us to think more deeply about who we are as a church and who and what we are called to be.

c. What is God calling your church to do/become over the next few years?

We are called to be:

an inclusive community of love and support and healing that nurtures the spiritual growth of adults, children and youth and energizes us for our work in the world;

a place where theological exploration and discussion is ongoing;

a progressive Christian voice for peace, social and environmental justice.

d. Describe how the church expects the person you are seeking to help your church reach these goals: We are seeking someone who:

is progressive theologically, stays abreast of contemporary theological thinking and delivers sermons that reflect this, applying Biblical and theological insights to our daily lives and the issues that confront our community, nation and world;***

has collaborative style and comfort with strong lay leadership and can provide guidance based on past experience and knowledge while drawing on the gifts, talents and passion of congregation members;

has a realistic understanding of her/his own strengths and challenges and will be secure enough to discuss these openly when needed;

has comfort and competence with justice related public witness and can speak publicly when needed;

can offer guidance to find balance so that we continue to grow spiritually and ask ourselves,” Where is God in this?” as we engage in the business of the church and in work for justice and peace;

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inspires and challenges us as we seek together to discern a fresh definition of the church for the times in which we live;

is caring of our elders and those facing health crises and other life challenges and has a compassionate, pastoral heart and the ability to be present with those seeking guidance or comfort.***

e. Chose the statement that most accurately describes the theological/faith stance of your church: You may check more than one.

We tend to be theologically conservative. We tend to be theologically moderate to conservative. We tend to be theologically moderate. We tend to be theologically moderate to liberal. X We tend to be theologically liberal. X We tend to be quite diverse theologically.

X Other: We have many members who have come from other denominations and faith backgrounds or who had no church affiliation prior to joining Church of the Crossroads.

f. Describe the educational program of your church:

Identify the curriculum/a used in your church school and the person or committee responsible for selection of curriculum/a: Our Sunday School has recently adopted a new format, focusing on storytelling, which is both culturally and Biblically appropriate. In the fall, children and youth heard stories from the Hebrew Scriptures, and in the spring the focus has been on the parables of Jesus. Stories are shared in church, told by either the minister or a congregation member. In their classes children and youth discuss the stories, and further explore their meaning through art and role-playing. Indicate resources used for Confirmation and the person or committee responsible for the selection of these resources:

The minister and the coordinator of the children and youth program select the resources for Confirmation. We're currently using William Willimon's Making Disciples—the preparatory DVD for mentors and journals for both confirmands and mentors. In addition, we are using the UCC resource Affirming Faith and the journals that come with it for our mini retreats and group sessions.

Are there educational opportunities for all ages? Yes. The church school has classes for all ages from preschool to high school (also provide toddler and nursery care); adult education is offered every Sunday morning; and a Lectionary Study Group meets weekly, with the minister. Special learning opportunities are often offered on a weeknight during Lent.

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Does your church have a written Safe Church Policy? X Yes _________No (If No, has a group worked on this issue in the past? What was the outcome?)

g. Describe how the church expects the person you are seeking to participate in the congregation’s educational programs:

We welcome fresh ideas and new approaches to learning. Traditionally, the minister has led some adult educations sessions and the weekly lectionary study. We look to the minister to keep us aware of current theological thinking and to clarify the Gospel message in relationship to the latest scholarship and current social justice issues. The minister works collaboratively with the coordinator of the children and youth program to plan the educational program for the children and adults. The minister assists as a resource person, helps with visioning and implementation of educational needs of the congregation. The minister guides the confirmation process, which has included adult mentors and sessions led by the minister.

h. Describe how programs or ministries of your church are evaluated: There is not a formal process in place for evaluating programs. Informally, they are reviewed by the

mission teams. The pastor is reviewed by the church Council. The Music Director is reviewed by the personnel committee with input from the congregation.

i. Describe the strengths or positive qualities of your church: (Add *** if information

came from a survey of the congregation.)

Open and Affirming and Just Peace Covenants*** Public witness to social justice missions*** Strong sense of Community*** Diversity, inclusiveness*** Intellectual curiosity, progressive theology*** Opportunities for service*** Generous congregation (relatively high per capita giving)***

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24. Indicate major boards, committees, small groups, and organizations that are a part of your church; the frequency of meetings (monthly, weekly, etc.); and expectations for leadership. For leadership role use: 1 = pastor takes primary initiative and responsibility; 2 = pastor and laity share responsibility; 3 = laity take primary initiative and responsibility; 4 = the pastor’s presence is expected periodically/occasionally.

Board/Committee Purpose # Members Frequency Leadership Coordinating Council

Determining policy. Conducting business, planning and coordinating, communicating with congregation

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Monthly

2

Executive Committee

Performing tasks delegated by Council

4 As needed 2

Nurture Team Planning for worship, education, membership and fellowship

5-7* Monthly 3

Service Team Initiating and supporting service to congregation and community

8-10* Monthly 3

Peace, Justice and Stewardship of Creation Team

Implementing our Just Peace and Open & Affirming covenants and working for social and environmental justice

8-10* Monthly 3

Administration Team

Dealing with property use and maintenance, stewardship, personnel matters, and other administrative needs.

7-8* Monthly 3

*Mission teams are open to all, thus “membership” is fluid.

Property Committee

See above under Administration Team

3 Monthly 2

Endowment Committee

See above under Administration Team

5 As needed 2

Personnel Committee

See above under Administration Team

5 As needed 2

Worship Committee

See above under Nurture Team 5-6 As needed 2

Pastoral Relations Committee

Serving as "sounding board" (Please refer to question 30)

4 As needed 2

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25. Conflict

Most churches experience conflict at various times. Characterize your church’s experience with conflict given the following possibilities. Indicate the extent to which each statement describes

your church: C = closely; S = somewhat;N = not at all.

C as a church, we respect and listen to each other and work things through without generating divisiveness

S as a church, we try to respect and listen to each other, but it is not uncommon for differences of opinion to be a problem and for some people to choose sides S some have left our church because of conflict N conflict hurts our sense of unity, but we tend not to talk about it C painful experience with conflict has been present, but it has been worked through, and we have learned from the experience S we have had some painful experiences with conflict, and they linger in the background N open conflict is present, and we need a minister who can help us deal with it other Specify:

Ongoing Small Groups Purpose # Members Frequency Leadership

Choir

Prepares and offers music for worship and other events

20-30

Weekly

3

Kokua Teams (11) Welcoming, ushering, assisting with worship, hosting post-worship refreshments

60 through the year

6 Weekly

3

IHS Teams (8) Preparing and delivering food to IHS homeless ministry each Saturday.

30-40 through the

year

3-4 Weekly 3

Meditation Group Meeting for early meditation service each Sunday

8-10 Weekly 3

Evening Meditation Group

Thursday evening, meditation, personal reflection

4-5 2x a month 3

Writing Group

Sharing personal writing 6-10 2x a month 3

Mohala Organic Farm Group

Helping fellow member with his organic farm on regular basis

8-10 Monthly 3

Crossroads Greening Congregation

Environment related activities—landscaping, recycling, networking with other religious and environmental organizations, and working with the pastor and other mission teams to develop worship service programs

4-5 2x Monthly 3

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Comment:

In 2010, our church called a new minister. Very quickly there were concerns raised by many members related to pastoral care of our elders, quality of sermons, communication, accountability and maintaining office hours. At the same time, the minister's ministry to the LGBTQ community was having a very positive impact for many who had been hurt by past church experience, and the minister was providing community leadership in the movement for equal rights, including the right to marry. Some members, as well as the minister, did not agree that performance in the areas noted above was seriously lacking. There was tension and some division, which was uncomfortable for all, and some members stopped attending. After an evaluation process and an unsuccessful attempt to work through some of the issues, the church and its minister engaged in a professionally led mediation process in 2014. The mediation process identified the issues from the congregation’s perspective and from the minister’s, the needs and expectations of each and resulted in all parties acknowledging mistakes and asking forgiveness. A mutual decision was made to end the relationship. Many members were glad that we chose this method to resolve to conflict. Some church members were not satisfied with the process, some wishing for the minister to be fired while others felt the minister was treated unfairly and should have been supported in staying. There was anger and bitterness on the part of some, and about 10 members and regular attenders left the church. Our church has a strong sense of community. Relationships and mutual respect are highly valued. We had enjoyed strong relationships with our two previous settled pastors, Tony Robinson and Neal MacPherson, which made this recent time of conflict particularly difficult and stressful. The church has had two helpful interim ministers since that time, and has been working to heal, to understand the issues that led to the differences, make needed changes, and to reach clarity regarding the church’s mission, goals, and expectations of its minister. It has been a time of self-examination, seeking discernment and working for transparency and clarity in our communication.

26. Worship

a. Describe the weekly worship schedule (number of services, times, languages in which the services are conducted, frequency with which communion is included, special emphases such as healing services, contemporary worship, etc.)

Sunday morning: Meditation Group 8:00 AM Worship Service 10:30 AM

Communion is celebrated on the first Sunday of each month. During communion, prayer team members are available at the back of the sanctuary for any who desire anointing and prayers for healing.

Music is a major element of worship at our church and was rated highly by many respondents to our congregational survey. A number of members of our congregation have come into the church by way of the choir, which offers a scholarship program for student singers. Every other year an elaborate “A Gift of Love” concert to raise choir scholarship funds attracts a large and appreciative audience, including many non-church members. In worship we use a variety of ethnic music. Liturgical dance and dramatic readings are sometimes included. A short weekly children’s message has been part of the service. Each Sunday’s lay liturgist provides an invitation to the offering that often reflects that member’s personal experience and appreciation of our church.

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Services are conducted in English, and we use inclusive language.

Special services:

Ash Wednesday (imposition of ashes and frequently walking a labyrinth) Holy Week:

Maundy Thursday Communion (sometimes includes foot washing or a communal meal) Good Friday (often Taize choral service and prayers around the Cross)

Christmas Eve (At times we have had both an early family service and a late service. Recently there has been one service around 7 p.m.) Candlelight Epiphany (Holden Evening Prayer choral service has been a tradition) Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Celebration and Annual Peacemaker Award

b. Are your worship services or church gatherings sign language interpreted?

_____ Yes X No Are there particular ministries with persons with developmental disabilities or mental illness? Comment:

Some of our members deal with mental illness and other disabilities. As noted, our campus also attracts some homeless and mentally ill individuals.

c. Identify how worship is planned on a regular basis in your church

The minister and music director meet weekly for planning. A member of the Nurture Team, with input from its worship group, also focuses on worship planning for the liturgical calendar.

d. Describe the style and content of preaching valued by your congregation:

Church of the Crossroads is a well-read, intellectual congregation. Members express a desire to be intellectually challenged and engaged by the sermons and to have the scriptures related to current issues, especially as they relate to our Just Peace and Open and Affirming covenants. The congregation values a Gospel message that speaks to the realities of today’s challenges and the responsibility of Christians in addressing those challenges. We value a theologically progressive and intellectually informed minister who speaks to both our hearts and our heads. We also value a minister's ability to use personal experiences in ways that humanize the minister and that speak to everyone. Our church is theologically progressive and looks to the minister to keep us abreast of new trends in theological thought. One of our previous ministers experienced several personal losses and crises during his ministry, and his sharing of his spiritual journey through those times allowed us to share our own struggles more openly and deepened our spirituality and mutual support.

e. Describe the role in worship of the person you are seeking:

The minister has the primary responsibility for the planning of worship, and works collaboratively with the Music Director and laity, while sometimes engaging other clergy. Preaching is a primary role of the minister.

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f. What hymnal(s) are currently used by your congregation in worship?

The New Century Hymnal. Additional hymns are sometimes copied in the order of worship (covered by our copyright licenses). We use SING! on occasion. There are a few favorites in it, but it has not been very well liked by our congregation. We sometimes use songs from the Hawaiian hymnal.

g. Have you considered using another hymnal?

Hymns and songs from other sources are included in worship. h. Churches have a variety of practices related to the use of Inclusive Language in

worship services. (Some churches have made the decision not to change any language in worship; others are intentionally inclusive in their references to people avoiding words such as “mankind”. Some avoid exclusively male references for God and seek to include male and female images as well as a variety of metaphors; other churches exercise care in the words of the liturgy but still utilize “traditional” hymns.) How important is this issue to your church?

The consistent use of Inclusive Language is very important to many of our members and attendees.

WIDER CHURCH CONNECTIONS

27. United Church of Christ

a. Association, conference, or other denominational programs and activities in which

church members participate: • One of our members serves as a member of the UCC National Board of Directors.

• One of our youth will attend the 2016 National Youth Event (NYE) in Florida, thanks in part to the efforts of our Children’s Education Coordinator, who has been working with other congregations island-wide to raise money for the youth to be able to attend.

• One of our members served on the UCC Environmental and Energy Task Force, attended an EETF planning meeting in Berkley, CA, presented an Environmental Climate Change Resolution at the UCC Synod Convention in Connecticut and attended a JWM/UCC Environmental Health Seminar at the Daniel Romero Center for Border Ministries dealing with Mexican workers.

• At the Hawai‘i Conference level, Church of the Crossroads always sends delegates to the Hawaii Conference's annual meeting, as well as to the biannual meetings of the Oahu Association and our members have presented workshops at these events.

• As noted above in several places, the UCC Transition House for Survivors of Domestic Violence, which was begun by Church of the Crossroads and continues to be an important part of our mission, is now an independent 501(c)(3) supported by numerous O‘ahu churches.

• Currently, two of our members serve on the Hawai‘i Conference Justice and Witness Team.

Do you send delegates to association and conference meetings? Regularly X Occasionally ___ Never___

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Have members of your church ever served as delegates or visitors to General Synod?

Yes X No_______Not Sure _________

b. Association, conference, or other denominational settings in which your church expects the leader you are now seeking to participate: Annual, Island wide Hawai'i Conference 'Aha Pae'aina (Summer) Semi-Annual O'ahu Association 'Aha Mokupuni (Spring & Fall)

c. Choose the word that best describes how lay leaders of your church consciously

identify with the United Church of Christ: X closely moderately nominally other 28. Ecumenical and Interfaith Activities

a. Describe ways your church participated in ecumenical and interfaith activities during the past three years: In addition to our involvement with Family Promise, mentioned above (10b and 20b1), one of Crossroads' prominent ecumenical and interfaith activities is our involvement in Hawai'i Interfaith Power and Light, a state chapter of a national organization that strives to raise awareness of global warming, particularly in faith communities, and create inspirational solutions. Last November Crossroads co-sponsored and hosted a teach-in related to the UN Conference on Climate Change in Paris. Another long time interfaith involvement is our Care Ministry, a group at Crossroads affiliated with Project Dana, “a Faith In Action program that provides a variety of services to the frail, elderly and disabled to ensure their wellbeing, independence, and dignity in an environment of their choice." The organization, founded by the Buddhist community, has become interfaith in its membership. Crossroads has several activities that are ecumenical, interfaith, and touch the larger community. One is our annual Martin Luther King Jr. service at which the Peacemaker Award is given to an individual or organization in our community that embodies the values of Dr. King. Typically, a contingent of Crossroaders march in the MLK parade in the morning, and then return for the ceremony at the church that evening. Those honored are from the community at large, and the event draws peace and justice advocates from a wide spectrum of faith based and secular organizations. We also have made a tradition of marching in the annual Pride Parade to support the ideas of equality, members of our church, and those in the wider LGBTQ community. A number of faith communities march in the parade. This past year we marched as a large group with each congregation carrying its banner. A third ongoing tradition is The Umematsu and Yasu Watada Lectures, a biennial event which focus on issues of Peace, Justice and the Environment. The speakers we invite are national and international figures, and we actively seek to engage other faith communities, the University of Hawaii and like-minded groups in the planning of the lectures, which are well attended by the community. Recently, our congregation reached out to the local mosque following the shootings in San Bernardino.

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b. Describe how your church expects the leader you are now seeking to participate in ecumenical and interfaith activities:

We expect the minister to support our participation in the organizations mentioned above and to be an effective voice in support of these activities. The minister may become more actively personally involved in any of these or other interfaith groups, depending on personal skills and interests.

RELATIONSHIP WITH MINISTERIAL LEADERS

29. Relationship With Prior Leaders

a. Characterize your church’s experience with pastoral leaders over the past 15 years. You may check more than one response:

X In general, our lay leaders have a history of strong, cooperative relationships with the church’s pastoral leadership.

We have had some fairly rocky moments, but we have worked them through, and relationships with pastoral leaders have grown in significant and important ways. X We have had some tough times and things did not always work out. (Most recent settled pastor. Please refer to #25) Other. Specify:

Comment:

Our congregation is looking for a minister who will develop new lay leadership and has an empowering style of working with laity.

b. Indicate the tenure of the last three installed persons who filled the position you are

seeking to fill. Do not include interims:

Name From To 1. Kyle Lovett

2010

2014

2. Neal MacPherson

1988 2008

3. Tony Robinson

1981 1988

c. If a previous pastor or pastor emeritus/a is currently a member of the church,

describe his or her involvement in the life of the congregation:

Although Neal MacPherson and his wife occasionally attend church events such as memorial services, they have shifted their membership to another church in town. Neal's brother, sister, son, daughters, and grandchildren are members and/or attend regularly.

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d. In addition to financial support, describe how your church supported the most recent person to hold the position you are now seeking to fill: The search committee served as the Pastoral Relations Committee during her first year and attempted to orient her to our community and church. Members introduced her in the community. The “Mod Squad,” immediate past, current moderator and moderator elect, met with the pastor frequently to discuss upcoming church events, activities and to keep communication open. When the mutual decision was made to end our relationship, the church honored the sabbatical that she was to have taken after three years but had delayed because of the process we were going through. This allowed her a transition time.

e. Involuntary Terminations:

Have any of the last three persons serving in the position you are seeking to fill left involuntarily or under pressure? *Please refer to question 25.

• Choose all the issues that may have contributed to the involuntary termination.

You may check more than one or indicate “not applicable.” _____conflict of personalities in the church

_____inadequate performance _____pastoral style inappropriate for this church _____ethical issues or issues of fitness for ministry _____financial stresses _____other. Specify:

*Please refer to question 25.

• Indicate, if you can, which of the following best describe the congregation’s behavior toward that person prior to her or his leaving: You may check more than one. _____civil _____kind _____compassionate _____supportive _____harsh _____indifferent

*Please refer to question 25.

• Describe what your church has learned from the experience about itself and its relationship with persons who provided ministerial leadership:

*Please refer to question 25.

30. Does the church have a Pastoral Relations Committee? X yes no If yes, describe its purpose, functions and how often they meet:

Our Pastoral Relations committee serves as a sounding board for both ministers and members of the congregation and gives feedback to the Pastor, encouraging early resolution of identified issues. In recent years, the "mod squad" (moderator, immediate past moderator, and moderator elect) has served as a de facto pastoral relations committee. We are currently in the process of forming a pastoral

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relations committee composed of two members of the search committee and two members appointed by the council that will be formed and trained by February 1, 2017. Meetings will be called by the pastor or a committee member as needed, but at least quarterly.

31. If there is periodic assessment/evaluation of the nature of the work and of the

performance of that work for the position you are seeking to fill? Describe it:

We are developing an assessment/evaluation system based on our learning over the past few years. We anticipate an informal evaluation after the first 6 months and a formal evaluation annually. The evaluation will be based on the specific expectations outlined in the contract, or covenant agreed to at the time the call is accepted.

Is the periodic ministerial evaluation coordinated with a regular assessment of the overall ministry of the congregation?

Yes. We developed a process with the previous minister in which we conducted a survey that addressed all the areas of the church's ministry. We are, however, open to discussing and revising the process with our new minister.

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32. Leadership Expectations A list follows of 45 items which represent a range of qualities in the ministry of the church. Place an “X” beside the 12 items which your church feels are the most important aspects of ministry for your church at this time. All the qualities are important. However, please mark those 12 which you feel need first priority at this time. Do not rank the items. If the aspects you consider to be important are not included in the list, place them at the end in the blanks provided. Mark only 12 of the following items. Do not rank the items. Our church needs a person who…

1. X is an effective preacher/speaker 2. X continues to develop his/her

theological and biblical skills 3. helps people develop their spiritual

life 4. helps people work together in

solving problems 5. X is effective in planning and leading

worship 6. has a sense of the direction of

his/her ministry 7. regularly encourages people to

participate in United Church of Christ activities and programs

8. X helps people understand and act upon issues of social justice

9. X is a helpful counselor 10. X ministers effectively to people in

crisis situations 11. X makes pastoral calls on people in

hospitals and nursing homes and those confined to their homes

12. makes pastoral calls on members not confined to their homes

13. X is a good leader 14. X is effective in working with children 15. builds a sense of fellowship among

the people with whom he/she works 16. helps people develop their

leadership abilities 17. is an effective administrator 18. is effective with committees and

officers 19. is an effective teacher 20. has a strong commitment to the

educational ministry of the church 21. is effective in working with adults

22. inspires a sense of confidence 23. works regularly at bringing new

members into the church 24. regularly encourages support of Our

Church’s Wider Mission 25. reaches out to inactive members 26. works regularly in the development

of stewardship growth 27. is active in ecumenical relationships

and encourages the church to participate

28. is a person of faith 29. writes clearly and well 30. works well on a team 31. is effective in working with youth 32. organizes people for community

action 33. is skilled in planning and leading

programs 34. plans and leads well-organized

meetings 35. encourages people to relate their

faith to their daily lives 36. is accepting of people with

divergent views 37. encourages others to assume and

carry out leadership 38. X is mature and emotionally secure 39. has strong commitment and loyalty 40. X maintains confidentiality 41. understands and interprets the

mission of the church from a global perspective

42. X is a compassionate and caring person

43. deals effectively with conflict

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If there are other comments you wish to make about expectations, include one or more paragraphs here on an additional sheet

Based on results of a survey taken by the congregation, the following qualities were also ranked as "extremely" or "very" important to church members but will benefit from a little more explanation. We would value a person who "continues to develop his/her theological and biblical skills”, but think this option does not fully convey our desire for, as the congregational survey put it, a person who "demonstrates intellectual curiosity" and "likes to read a wide variety of material." A survey option desiring a person who "has demonstrated openness/inclusivity in his/her ministry" is perhaps covered by the UCC Open & Affirming church policy, but we feel it is worth underscoring the church's very strong support for having a leader who is proactive in this area. Regarding administrative leadership, the church hopes for a leader who is able to effectively delegate responsibilities. The church values a person who "is compassionate in supporting members dealing with grief and sorrow," and "works well with families at times of baptisms, weddings, funerals."

GENERAL 33. Does your governing body or your search committee have a well-defined policy against

discrimination?

Yes. 34. Has your congregation participated in an ONA (Open and Affirming) study/discernment

process?

Yes. The Church participated in a very thorough process in the early 1990s that included personal sharing by a number of members. A recent survey demonstrated a unified congregation that continues to strongly support our Open and Affirming Covenant.

35. Is there a position description of the pastor’s role and responsibilities? X Yes Our By-laws provide a basic outline of the minister's roles and duties (see attached

By-laws excerpts). We do not have a detailed job description, but are currently working to develop one.

Does your church have a personnel policy covering this position?

X Yes No (see attached By-laws excerpts)

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36. List the titles of other paid staff positions for whom this person provides supervision and indicate whether these positions are full-time (FT) or part-time (PT). Title: Administrative Assistant PT X FT Title: Music Director X PT FT Title: Custodian/Groundskeeper PT X FT Title: Assistant Custodian X PT FT Title: Lay Associate for Children/Youth X PT FT

37. Name three people who have agreed to serve as references. Make sure they are not

members of your church, but know your church well enough to be helpful to a final candidate seeking more information about your church, e.g., conference staff, person in community, neighboring pastor:

Name Telephone Relationship to Your Church a. Diane Weible (808) 228-2672 Former Hawai'i Conference Associate Minister b. Sharon MacArthur (510) 548-5259 Former Interim Pastor 2014-2015 c. Elizabeth Kent (808) 352-2776 Owner, Meeting Expectations Hawaii (Elizabeth was the lead mediator for the mediation process mentioned in #25.)

38. What groups or individuals in your church have contributed to, reviewed, and/or approved this profile for circulation?

The Church Council, Congregation, Church Officers, bookkeeper, and Transitional Ministry Team have contributed information for this profile, and it has been approved by the Transitional Ministry Team, the Search Committee, and the Church Council. A copy of the profile has been made available to the Congregation.

STATEMENT ON LEADERSHIP IN MINISTRY

In keeping with our congregational heritage, we see ministry as the work of the whole church, with the minister having specific roles as spiritual leader, preacher, and teacher. We look to the minister to lead worship that is creative, inspiring and draws us closer to God. Our theology is progressive, and we look for sermons and worship to reflect our commitments to inclusiveness, justice, peace, and care of creation and to challenge us to live out the ideals of our covenants.

The original covenant of Church of the Crossroads, written over 90 years ago, identifies our common ministry to include sharing the good news of the Gospel, worshiping God, seeking to know God’s will, and “laboring for the progress of knowledge, the promotion of justice, the reign of peace and the realization of human unity.” In 1992, Crossroads adopted a Just Peace Covenant, which again lifted up our commitment to peace, social, and environmental justice. This covenant emphasizes living out our life together so that we are a microcosm of the Aloha that God intends for the world. It commits us “to maintain Aloha as the guiding force for our ministry and mission.” There is no direct translation of Aloha into English. Some Hawaiian cultural practitioners offer the following definition: “Aloha means mutual regard and affection and extends warmth in caring with no obligation in return. Aloha is the essence of

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relationships in which each person is important to every other person for collective existence. Aloha means to hear what is not said, to see what cannot be seen and to know the unknowable.”

We look to our minister to enter fully into community with us, to extend compassion and care to our kupuna (elders) and those facing illness or other life crises, and to help nurture our children and youth and to work collaboratively with the various mission teams who share in these tasks.

In 1993, Crossroads adopted yet another covenant, declaring ourselves to be an Open And Affirming Congregation. Our forebears radically affirmed racial and ethnic inclusivity in 1923 with the founding of the first multiethnic church in Hawai'i. Today, Church of the Crossroads treasures the richness of diversity in race, ethnicity, orientation, abilities and age. Our church has long welcomed and supported equality for our LGBTQ brothers and sisters and would want our settled minister to actively embrace this witness. We are a culturally diverse community and we treasure this part of our historical and current identity. We want our spiritual leader to be culturally competent, as demonstrated by respect for “local” style as it manifests itself in communication, interpersonal interaction and traditions.

Our church has many dedicated members and attenders who actively participate in the church’s leadership and ministry. We look to our minister to help identify and develop future leaders and to provide support and guidance to those already engaged. Developing this profile has led us to more clearly identify our hopes for the church’s future and the issues and activities that are most important to us. We look forward to working together with our new minister to develop and implement a strategic plan for the work and ministry of our church.

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Conference or Association Descriptive Reference

Church Name: Church of the Crossroads

Location: Honolulu, O'ahu, Hawai'i

Conference: Hawai'i Conference

Association: O'ahu Association, UCC

Name of Staff Assisting in the Search: Richard Kamanu Staff Comments:

_________________________________________________ Signature of Staff Assisting in the Search

________________________________ Date

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ATTACHMENT 1:

Church of the Crossroads By-Laws, excerpt: ARTICLE VII: The Ministry SECTION 1. The Ministry, par. 2

“…. While the term of the minister is indefinite, the church may at any time by a majority vote at a meeting called for the purpose, request a resignation with the expectation that it will be presented within three months. In the case of loss of ministerial standing, the relationship shall cease at once. The minister shall be responsible for the ministry of the church with the assistance of the Coordinating Council. The minister shall also serve as the chief administrative officer of the church and shall be an ex-officio member of the Coordinating Council and all committees, except any Nominating Committee, and shall be free to attend such of their meeting as may be found practical. The minister shall submit an annual written report of activities to the Coordinating Council and the congregation at least thirty (30) days prior to the close of each official year.”

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ATTACHMENT 2:

Church of the Crossroads Covenants:

1. From the Church of the Crossroads Bylaws, Article III: Covenant

The covenant in which the members of this Church join as their declaration on common faith and loyalty follows:

“We believe in and worship one God, most holy, most loving, and most free whose character and purpose for all people have been adequately made known in the filial and sacrificial life of Jesus Christ.

“We believe it is the divine purpose to establish upon the earth a universal society of the children of God devoted to a life of mutual respect and good will.

“We are united in striving to know the will of God and in our purpose to walk in the ways of the Lord, made known or to be made known to us.

“We hold it to be the mission of the Church of Christ to proclaim the Gospel to all people, to exalt the worship of the one true God, and to labor for the progress of knowledge, the promotion of justice, the reign of peace, and the realization of human unity.

“We dedicate ourselves and the activities of this Church to this cause. Through worship and common purpose, we seek mutual encouragement, growing understanding and fuller consecration.”

2. Church of the Crossroads Just Peace Covenant

We, the Church of the Crossroads, in response to our belief in love of God which unconditionally wills the good of all creation, and our belief that aloha expressed as peace and justice, compassion and harmony, is God’s intention for all creation, do hereby make our covenant with God and with one another, to become a Just Peace Church of the United Church of Christ.

We believe that, although we are many members, we are one body of Christ. As a part of that body of Christ, we are called to love one another,

to do justice, to love kindness, and to walk humbly with our God.

Responding to that call, a goal of our ministry is to help the brokenness we experience in ourselves and in relationships with the creation, with each other and with God.

By the Grace of God and the guidance of the Holy Spirit

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We pledge ourselves as a community to be a microcosm of the aloha God intends for the world, by living out our life together in the integrity of creation, justice and peace;

to seek the elimination of the causes of war through nonviolent means; to live towards the vision of a world that is free of economic injustice,

Oppression, racism, and sexism and to challenge the structures that perpetuate them;

to respect the human rights of persons of all social and ethnic backgrounds, physical and mental abilities, gender and sexual orientations;

to maintain aloha as the guiding force for our ministry and mission.

Believing that this is God’s world, we pledge ourselves to carry out the vision

of the integrity of creation, justice and peace.

(March 8, 1992)

3. Covenant Declaring Church of the Crossroads an Open and Affirming Church

We, the members of Church of the Crossroads, are a diverse community of people. We differ in age, gender, abilities and sexual orientations. We hold varying theological and political beliefs and come from different socioeconomic and ethnic backgrounds. As a church community, we celebrate and find strength in that diversity and view it as a way to understand the inclusiveness of God.

We recognize that, within both the church and the larger society, persons who differ in age, gender, social and ethnic background, sexual orientation, and physical or mental

ability, have historically suffered persecution and continue to experience negative stereotypes, indifference to their needs, and rejection.

We believe that, although we are many members, we are one body in Christ. As part of that body of Christ, we are called to love one another, to do justice, to bring release to the oppressed, and to walk humbly with our God. Responding to that call, one goal of our ministry is to heal the brokenness we experience in our relationships with one another and to witness our oneness in Christ to the larger world through the inclusiveness of our own church community.

Therefore, we now publicly declare ourselves an “Open and Affirming Church,” and set forth our beliefs and our intentions as a community of the faithful.

As regards social and ethnic background, we believe that we are “neither Greek nor Jew, male nor female” but brothers and sisters in the family of God. Our discipleship rests not on our age, gender, level of education nor on economic and social success, but on our

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ability to love God with all our heart, mind and soul, and to love our neighbors as ourselves. We further acknowledge that the cultural differences among us are rooted in

generations of human history, offering a testimony to the rich variety of human experience, and revealing the many ways which God has been made known to

humankind.

As regards sexual orientation, we believe that we are made in God’s image and that we are made in God’s image and that we are called to accept ourselves and our sexuality. Our sexuality is a gift of God which, when expressed in mutual love, enriches our lives

and deeply touches the reality of our own and others’ humanity; it is one of the channels through which we experience life. All persons, regardless of sexual orientation, are

entitled to express and receive human love and to receive the blessing of our church community in fostering committed relationships.

As regards persons of different abilities, we believe that each person is created in the image of God and is unconditionally loved as a child of God. The fullness of life

experienced by an individual is determined by how one uses the talents and abilities entrusted by God. Each person is entitled to be treated with love and respect as part of the family of God.

We therefore commit ourselves, as a community of Christian people, to seek to end the continuing injustice of institutional discrimination, instances of violence, and denial of

civil rights protection towards persons who differ in age, gender, social and ethnic background, sexual orientation and physical and mental ability. We affirm that all such

persons are welcome within the life of our church, to contribute their time, energy and gifts to our common mission, including its employment and the leadership of the congregation. Furthermore, we seek to understand and respond to their special needs as

they seek personal integrity, acceptance by their families, the church and the community, and the development of committed partnerships.

Therefore, we, the Church of the Crossroads, declare ourselves to be an Open and Affirming Church.

(July, 1993)