Press Release

For Immediate Release

Contact: 412-322-4261

Activist Minister installed on the North Side

Allegheny Unitarian Universalist Church members and friends celebrated, sang, ate, drank, cheered, and got charged up and inspired by the many and varied activities surrounding the installation of our fourteenth minister, the Reverend David V. McFarland, on Sunday, November 6, 2005. The weekend started on Friday with a kick-off at a local micro-brewery where about 75 congregants and friends from Pittsburgh's North Side and the families of David and his husband Tim enjoyed good German beer, rousing accordion tunes, conversation, and lots of laughter. The energy was great and we felt it spill out all over the North Side and beyond. Saturday at the First Unitarian Church of Pittsburgh brought meaningful discussion and important dialogue with the Reverend Dr. Forrest Church, the Reverend Dr. Mark Belletini, and local ministers. It was a much-appreciated opportunity for challenging, provocative discussion about topics relevant to our churches. Saturday evening, after dinner together, folks enjoyed a hymn sing that included pieces from the new hymn supplement followed by a revival which combined heart-felt testimonials, a skit by and for the children, breath-taking music by a multi-church choir, and an incredibly beautiful and inspiring sermon by Rev. Church. Truly a service to make one a born again UU! By the end of the day, more than 200 Unitarian Universalists from all over the region and beyond met to share, explore ideas, and worship. This amazing day was recorded, thanks to First Church, Pittsburgh. If you weren't there, or if you were there and would like to relive it or think further about the ideas shared throughout the day, you can purchase cd recordings of the day's public sessions and revival for $6 or $5 if you pick them up at First Unitarian Church of Pittsburgh. Call 412-621-8008 x112, or e-mail uuchurchpgh@yahoo.com.

Sunday was as rewarding as it gets. The morning worship led by Rev. McFarland with special music from the choir featured Rev. Church preaching an impassioned call for renewal and hope. After some book signing and a light lunch, the installation itself began. A hymn sing followed by Allegheny's musical ensemble set the mood. The Rev. Renee Waun from East Suburban began with a spirited call to worship. Then, accompanied by drums, the choir began processing to the rousing "Freedom Is Coming" followed by the attending ministers. Musical contributions from the ensemble and the 18-member choir were awesome. The Rev. Dr. Forrest Church, a powerhouse of ideas, inspiration, and hope, gave the charge to the minister. If we didn't already know, it made us realize how fortunate we are to have David as our minister. Forrest truly loves David, and that love was felt immensely throughout the service. Former Allegheny minister the Rev. Art McDonald gave the charge to the congregation. It was a healing moment for both Rev. McDonald and those members and friends who remember him. Rev. Belletini gave the sermon and led a laying on of hands ceremony that had most in tears. The spirit was definitely moving among us and the love between congregation and new minister was palpable. It was a truly wonderful, inspiring, awe-filled, and memorable weekend.