The DLRE Search Committee has joyous news to share with the congregation. Over the last few months, the committee conducted a broad nationwide search leveraging Liberal Religious Educators Association (LREDA) and UU networks to help identify the best possible qualified and inspiring candidate to serve in this important role. We also conducted a congregational survey to elicit your input on the skills and qualities that you most value in a DLRE. Thank you again for all your responses! We kept your voices prominent during the search process. It is clear from your feedback that our church members value high-quality religious education, strong administrative skills, and a DLRE who leads with integrity and authenticity.

The DLRE Search Committee is delighted to announce that, after a unanimous decision, we have hired the next Director of Lifespan Religious Education at First UU of San Antonio!! We would like to introduce Bellamy Shoffner (they/she).

Bellamy is a dedicated religious educator and social justice advocate. Bellamy recently held the position of DRE at the Unitarian Universalist Congregation of Greenville, NC. As a member of LREDA (Liberal Religious Educators Association) and DRUUMM (Diverse & Revolutionary UU Multicultural Ministries), Bellamy has continued to affirm their commitment to growing personally and professionally within the UU faith. Previously, Bellamy has worked in youth programming for the Virginia state humanities council in addition to having an extensive background in creating inclusive learning environments for people of all ages.

They have launched a number of distinct equity-centered initiatives and campaigns including publishing Hold the Line magazine, hosting a fresh foods drive, creating a recurring Kindness as an Action challenge, and developing and leading retreats to support parents passionate about social justice. As a storyteller, Bellamy’s work has appeared in a number of popular publications as well as news media such as NPR and CBC. In their free time, they enjoy writing essays, exploring multimedia arts, swimming, and meeting new people. They look forward to continuing their work in faith formation and growing beloved community. Bellamy is the proud parent of Cade (newly 15 as of arrival to San Antonio) and Cyrus (12).

Thank you again for your trust in our committee and the search process! We look forward to providing Bellamy, Cade, and Cyrus a warm Texan welcome here at First UU-SA. Bellamy’s official start date will be August 24th. We are planning a potluck celebration to welcome Bellamy on August 30th. Please be on the lookout for more details soon!

From your DLRE Search Committee,

Kathy Beggs, Rebecca Edgin Harrington, Tavis McGeachin, Catherine Perz, and Stephanie Younts