First Universalist Society in Franklin Welcomes Rev. Eric Cherry as New Minister

The First Universalist Society in Franklin (FUSF), located at 262 Chestnut Street in Franklin, recently welcomed Reverend Eric Cherry as its new permanent minister. Cherry is the Director of the International Office of the Unitarian Universalist Association, and he brings 26 years of experience as a youth minister, chaplain, teacher and parish minister.
“My life and my vocation have been indelibly shaped by Unitarian Universalism,” says Rev. Cherry, who fills the vacancy of the church’s beloved Reverend Carol Rosine, Minister Emeritus, who is retiring after 29 years of service. “My earliest memories are of the embracing kindness and caring guidance provided by the UU Fellowship of Stony Brook, in Long Island, NY, which was at the center of my family’s life while I was growing up. And, our religious tradition has been the principled center of my life through the years that have followed. I regard this as a precious, unearned gift - receiving it compels me to provide faithful leadership that assures that many will experience that gift as well.”
“The search committee was deeply drawn to his passion for making church relevant in this day and age and helping each of us, and especially our youth, find lives of purpose and meaning,” said FUSF Search Committee chair Vicki Coates. “Rev. Cherry brings a unique combination of strong and varied experiences as both a parish minister and a Director of the International Office at the Unitarian Universalist Association.”
“Through my denominational service, I’ve come to understand the dynamics of ministry and the capacity of supporting organizations in new ways - both in the US and abroad,” says Rev. Cherry. “I’ve developed strength and deep experience in administration, staff management, and stewardship. And, I’ve had the privilege to develop relationships with global U/U and interfaith leaders whose partnership expands the strength and impact of our religious commitments. I’m excited to bring these experiences to my next congregational ministry.”
Upon accepting FUSF’s offer to become their next settled minister, Rev. Cherry reiterated his call to:
• to create worship that changes lives
• to celebrate - in the broadest sense of the word - so that the power of joy and hope are continually present
• to care for the fearful, the lost and the broken-hearted
• to invite attention to and thoroughly support faith development for people of all ages
• to faithfully confront systems of injustice near and far
• to stewardship of the administrative needs of a strong and growing faith community
• to be fully present and welcoming to the Town of Franklin and neighboring communities as a strong, reliable, center of religious strength.
The First Universalist Society in Franklin is a growing congregation of nearly 235 members and friends. Its history in the Franklin area dates to November 22, 1856. We are diverse in faith, ethnicity, history, and spirituality, but aligned in our desire to make a difference. We have a track record of standing on the side of love, justice, and peace.
To learn more, visit www.fusf.org.