March 16, 2025

Dear Congregants,

When we embarked on the journey to find a new minister last summer, we carried both hope and realistic
expectations. Given the nationwide shortage of UU ministers, our lean budget, and our rural location
— we understood that the search would not be easy.

Our vision was shaped by everything you shared during the cottage meetings last year — your values, your
hopes, and your dreams for the future of UUCV. As a search committee, we became a mini-congregation,
committed to setting aside our own biases to act in the best interest of our entire community. We took
this responsibility to heart, knowing how much this decision would shape the years ahead.

Today, we are beyond thrilled to announce that we have found our next minister. Not only do they
embody everything we hoped for, but they also bring even more to the table than we imagined. And as
much as we chose them, they chose us. They have chosen UUCV because of who we are and how we live
our values. They see this blue dot in a red sea as a place of sanctuary — a beacon of love and safety for
marginalized communities and a spiritual home for those seeking truth, together.

In the coming months, you will have the opportunity to get to know Rev. Phoenix, and we have no doubt
that you will see what we see. It has been an honor to serve in this process and we are filled with profound,
belly-deep gratitude for the trust you placed in us to do this work.

With love and excitement,
YOUR UUCV MINISTER SEARCH TEAM
Emily Cappucci (she/her) co-chair
Tara Sollman (she/her/they) co-chair
Gail Black (she/her)
Brent Dickerson (any)
Primajoy Ramalingam (she/her)

March 16, 2025

Dear Beloved Community,

I am filled with joy and gratitude as I introduce myself to you. My name is Rev. Phoenix Bell-Shelton Biggs,
and I am honored to be joining your staff as the Minister, starting on June 1st. My first on-site day will be
Sunday, June 15th, for our Pride Service! What a beautiful way to begin this journey — celebrating the vibrant
diversity of our community and affirming the dignity of all.

As a Unitarian Universalist minister committed to radical love, care, and sanctuary, faith calls us to co-create
a world where all can flourish. I am passionate about fostering a community where everyone — regardless of
identity, background, or experience — feels seen, valued, and empowered to grow spiritually and emotionally.
I look forward to walking alongside each of you as we deepen our connections with one another and
with the sacred.

A deep commitment to justice and healing has shaped my spiritual journey. Growing up in the South, my
spiritual roots were planted in the Christian tradition, but it was through Unitarian Universalism that I found a
theology of love expansive enough to embrace my whole self. As a queer, nonbinary person, I know firsthand
the importance of being in a faith community that affirms the fullness of our humanity, and I am eager to help
create spaces where everyone can experience that affirmation and grace.

I approach ministry with a focus on care, inclusivity, and accessibility. Every person brings their gifts, needs,
and stories, and I am committed to supporting each of you with compassion and respect. I am excited to meet
you all, hear your stories, and contribute to the meaningful work we will do together as a community.
I look forward to joining you on this journey of justice, healing, and transformation. May our time together be
one of deep connection, bold action, and shared purpose.

With gratitude and anticipation,

Rev. Phoenix Bell-Shelton Biggs (they/them)