With immense gratitude for the past nine years, sorrow about coming to the end of our journey together, and excitement about the future of First Parish in Wayland, the Parish Committee has received the news that Rev. Dr. Stephanie May has accepted the position of Settled Minister at First Church in Boston. We are working closely with Rev. Stephanie to plan the last phase of her ministry with us. Her last day as our minister is July 31.

The Parish Committee is already working with The Unitarian Universalist Association (UUA) Transitions team in the search for an Interim Minister. The typical start date for an Interim Minister is August 1.

“Leaving this congregation will not be easy, and I am deeply proud of all we have done together to build community, to care for one another, and to grow in our connections within and beyond the walls of First Parish,” said Rev. Stephanie. “I will be singing your praises to all who apply to serve First Parish as an Interim Minister and then as the next Settled Minister.”

First Church in Boston has a storied history of nearly 400 years. Rev. Stephanie will be its first woman senior minister.

Although our minister is leaving, our community remains strong and committed to our shared values. Thanks to an excellent staff and engaged parishioners, we will continue to lean on each other and thrive in our cherished community.