Transition Team
In October, the Transition Team and a few members of Council met with the CAT administrators to review the survey results, and we are pleased to report that the findings were highly encouraging. The survey assessed various factors that contribute to member satisfaction and energy within the congregation. The results indicate that Columbine is what the CAT team refers to as a “transformational church”—a vibrant and healthy congregation with a clear sense of mission, strong relationships, and impactful engagement in the community. For those who are interested in learning more, we encourage you to take a moment to review the results of the survey.
A Letter From Council
Hello Congregation,
As we enter this time of transition, the church council is committed to providing opportunities for the congregation to have a voice in the future of CUC and timely updates regarding the transition process. The council, with guidance from the Minister Relations Committee of the Denver Presbytery, have been exploring our next steps and options as we look to select CUC’s next senior pastor.
We started this process of discernment last fall, when the Council formed a Transition Team to learn about the transition process. The team hired Holy Cow Consulting to survey our congregation to determine where we are and where we want to go next. You were invited to listening sessions to reflect on the results. Those sessions generated many ideas and questions, including whether it is possible to call the Rev Jill VanderWal as our next Senior Pastor.
The council will host a second round of listening sessions to provide information about the options available to us and to seek your input. After those listening sessions, the council will have a better idea of what we seek in a leader and the direction the congregation would like us to pursue and establish a plan.
Please email council@columbineunitedchurch.org with questions and thoughts you have about this important first step in the pastoral transition process.
Thank you,
CUC Council
Megan Pickett, Council President
Brian Snyder, Rod Eggert, Susan Lummanick, Lori Halverson, Janet Kester, James Sult, Jennifer Milstead, & Anne Prather
Updates
April 22, 2026
Pastoral Announcement
Pastor Samantha sent a letter to the church through the E-blast announcing that her family will be moving out of state this summer. View her letter here.
May 3, 2026
Input Opportunity
After both services, the Council will lead listening sessions to hear your concerns and priorities. 9:30am and 11:30am.
April 26, 2026
Pastoral Announcement
Pastor Steve announced, during both services, that his last Sunday will be July 19th. View his letter here.
May 11, 2026
Input Opportunity
At 6:30pm we will host an additional listening session in Biel hall and on Zoom. (This will be part of a meeting that precedes our May 17 Annual Congregational Meeting)
May 31, 2026
Input Opportunity
At 8:30am and 10:30am we will host listening sessions as an option during service.