We are thrilled to share joyful news about one of our own. Carla Espinoza, abeloved UUFSMA member, has been accepted to Meadville Lombard Theological School in Chicago and will begin her UU ministry studies this fall. Fortuitously, beginning just this year, the program can now be completed entirely online, allowing Carla to study here in San Miguel — a perfect fit for her and our Fellowship.

Carla has deep roots in this community, a professional background in clinical psychology, a strong commitment to human rights, and a growing record of leadership within UUFSMA. Many already know her through her bilingual services, social justice work, and her contributions as a board member. Her decision to answer a call to ministry is an exciting development not only for Carla but for our entire fellowship. Her bio is attached here – a good way to get to know her better.

This gives UUFSMA a special opportunity to serve as Carla’s sponsoring congregation and to become part of the teaching, learning, and support community that is vital to her preparation for ministry. We hope you will join us in celebrating Carla and embracing this wonderful opportunity to be part of her journey into ministry.

Finally, we want to assure you that Carla will not be serving as the Minister-in-Residence (that recruitment is ongoing) nor is she being positioned to replace Tom. Instead, over the coming years, Carla will become increasingly visible as she studies and gains experience, with Tom playing a key role as her mentor and leader of her support team.

If you have ideas for how to support Carla, or any questions or concerns, please reach out to anybody on the Committee on Ministry, to Carla, or to Tom. Thanks!



Kate Greenaway (Chair), Ellie Goodwin, Arlene Van Note, Margo Johnson, Anne Geyer, Frankie Hill and the Rev. Tom Rosiello