UUCR calls Hank Peirce to be their Settled Minister

The Unitarian Universalist Church of Reading has called Reverend Hank Peirce to be their settled minister beginning in August. He will be replacing Interim Minister, Reverend Catherine Senghas, who has been leading the congregation through a two year transition process since the departure of the previous settled minister, Reverend Tim Kutzmark.

Reverend Hank is a lifelong Unitarian Universalist and a highly experienced minister. He graduated from Andover-Newton Theological School in 1998 and was ordained by his home church, the First Unitarian Church of New Bedford. Since 1999, Hank has served several congregations, including 12 years as settled minister at the UU Church of Medford, and interim ministry for both the Milton and Westford Churches.

Hank is a creative thinker and a strong collaborator who values innovative worship. With a welcoming and authentic nature, Hank makes real connections across the generational spectrum. He is deeply committed to spiritual growth, community building, social justice, compassionate pastoral care, and service to interfaith and UU associations.

Rev. Hank brings a unique background and a variety of interests to Reading. He was deeply involved in the punk rock scene of the 1980’s in Boston and worked as a roadie for several bands. He is a history buff and is active in the larger denomination. He lives in Medford with his wife Rebecca Scott and their two daughters.

Mark Taitz, president of the UUCR Governing Board commented, "We could not be more pleased to have Reverend Peirce join our church family. He is the type of person who young and old take to immediately upon meeting him. He has a strong sense of purpose, fellowship and community, and I know he will help us deliver our message of inclusiveness, acceptance, and social justice throughout the region that we serve."

After an extensive search process with a large pool of applicants, the Ministerial Search Team invited Reverend Hank Peirce to spend a week getting to know UUCR and preaching at two consecutive services. After the service on May 7, the members of the congregation met and voted to call Rev. Hank to serve as their minister.

Rev. Peirce commented, “I am honored, and feeling very blessed, to have been called to be the next minister of the Unitarian Universalist Church of Reading. I was drawn to this congregation because of its wonderful inclusive nature. Here is a vibrant community of young families, singles, wise elders, members of the rainbow of minority groups, who have been drawn together seeking and finding connection and solidarity. I am excited to begin my ministry with the members of this church and among the communities it serves."

For more information about UUCR, check out their website: uureading.org