The Listening Ear

Other Issues At The Meeting

At least two other issues surfaced at the semiannual meeting that are important to note. Questions were raised about the congregation’s baptismal policy. The purpose of the policy has been to encourage parents to follow through on the promises they make at baptism so that when children are baptized, they are raised in the Christian faith. The intent has never been to deny baptism to anyone. The policy was crafted out of concern for children and their families.
Unfortunately the purpose has been misunderstood and the policy hasn’t always achieved its goal. As was reported at the semiannual meeting the policy is already currently under review and the council hopes be able to adopt a policy that is more effective in expressing concern for children and their parents and is more easily understood.
Another question was raised regarding the best way to strengthen our ministry to children and their families. Although the solution suggested may not be the best way to strengthen that ministry, asking the question assumes that this is a good goal for our congregation to pursue. I think that is absolutely right.
We have strong ministries in our preschool, our confirmation ministry and among high school youth. In each case, these ministries are strong because we have invested resources, include significant church staff time, in them.
I think that our ministry to grade school-aged children would profit from a similar investment. It is the reason that members of the congregation have suggested that we need a part-time staff position responsible for children’s ministry. It is also the reason the church council is investigating this possibility.

Semiannual Meeting Reflections

I know I haven’t been taking time for this blog lately. There have been too many other things demanding my attention. At least for today I am back.

I have been thinking about our semiannual meeting that took place last Sunday. I know that some people I have talked to have expressed disappointment in that meeting. They felt that at times, remarks strayed toward personal attack rather than keeping focused on the issues. Sometimes emotions can get the better of us.

I have had the impression that many members of our congregation are beginning to get weary of the discussion of issues regarding the need to improve our overall facilities for the sake of our ministry. I understand the desire the get these questions resolved. I, myself, am looking forward to the time when we will come to a decision in this matter.

That said, I think we have to allow ourselves sufficient time to reach a decision. The focus needs to continue to be on where God is leading us.

I am feeling hopeful after our semiannual meeting because I see a consensus emerging. I think that many people in the congregation have come to the realization that we need to build a new building on a site different from the one occupied by our current buildings. The question remaining is whether we should try to purchase land south of the present building for the new structure or whether we may need to or want to choose another site, such as the farm ground. This is progress for us.

Now we just need to press on with this work God has laid before us. If we submit ourselves to God’s guidance, God will lead us.