I've gone back and forth over the course of the past 25 years as to whether I'd want to pursue a M.Div. as a UU. I'd specifically be interested in chaplaincy and not Congregational ministry. I have come back to it MULTIPLE times and even went as far as withdrawing applications already submitted in the past. I just am worried about the cost.

I, admittedly, have a fulfilling career already and considerable autonomy but feel drawn to the coursework and think chaplaincy would be a helpful adjunct to my current career. I have two master's degrees and a Ph.D. in somewhat relevant and adjacent fields.

What are folks' experiences? Is it worth it? I'd have to do an online or hybrid program. Looking for others' lived experience in a M.Div program. Preference is for folks to hold snarkiness, if possible.

I am very interested in Unitarian and Universalist history and was wondering if there are any good, well-researched podcasts or audiobooks that others would recommend?

I have gone back and forth about pursuing a M.Div. for nearly 20 years. I had once gotten to the point where I was applying to several programs but rescinded my applications and pursued doctoral work in Psychology instead (I'm a Psychologist, by training and practice).

That said, I read, most often, about Unitarian and Universalist history and often find myself writing and drafting sermons but never delivering them anywhere, even as a layperson--mostly because we don't have a Congregation or CC in my Rural area.

I'm happy in my role as a Psychologist, but often wonder if it'd be possible to "do both" [i.e., become a part-time UU minister or associate AND practice as a psychologist].

If I pursued the M.Div., I'd want to complete via a part time option online at either ML, SK, or HDS (I know HDS is a FT program, and unlikely to work out).

Any thoughts? Any seminarians with advice? Comments about their own experiences with PT M.Div at ML or SK?

Hello! I was raised UU and have been living in a fairly religiously conservative rural location. My partner and I moved around a lot for several years before settling into our current location. Lately, I've been feeling drawn to developing a UU-based community / service in our rural area. I reached out to UUA and they had encouraged us to reach out to our Regional Representative and/or consider starting a Covenanting Community. I did this and they encouraged us to participate in our nearest fellowships virtually. There are well established UU Fellowships within 100 miles in two directions, but the travel on a Sunday is too much for our family. We are also craving human connection (in lieu of virtual services). I'd like to have services here, but we don't have space to host in our small house. Any thoughts about how to bring people together? I don't use Facebook, but had been thinking of posting a newspaper ad. Thoughts?