Mark's Article
In last week’s Courier I wrote an article that seemed to some to be an attempt at censorship or at the least limiting what may or may not be printed in the Courier. I do stand by what I wrote but I also apologize for some of the words I chose to use in the article. As mentioned, part of my struggle was on how to say what I thought needed be said in a pastoral manner. I do agree using words as “laundry” can be misleading.
However, in a strange way or maybe not so strange, the reaction to the article did highlight the point I was trying make. Letters/Articles that are written to state one’s opinion, either pro or con, can be misread or misleading. My argument was not that one should not be able to express their opinion, but to consider other avenues for that expression that will allow for conversation, dialogue and maybe even debate.
The issues and decisions that we are facing as a congregation or very important and very close to our hearts. Therefore, when we speak on such matters others need to be able to hear and see the emotion, the emphasis on certain words, and body language and be able to respond accordingly. The only way I know that this can be done is through interaction in conversation. Letters/articles do not allow for this type of interaction. They are a good and necessary medium for many topics, but again I will argue they are not the best avenue for sharing our thoughts and opinions we are facing as a congregation.
I strongly encourage one to consider avenues that are already in place that will allow conversation. These being but not limited to, Board meetings, congregational meetings, Sunday school classes, Committee meetings, after worship, Circle meetings, Men’s group, etc… As I have said before, as a member you have the right to attend any meeting (there a few exceptions) and speak at that meeting. You may not be able to vote but you can speak. The point I am trying to make is this: we as members of FCC (DoC) need to be in conversation. That is face to face, the issues we are dealing with need open and honest conversations that allow for response.
With that said, let me also be clear, that submissions to the Courier by members of the congregation are not censored nor are they not printed (unless we missed it). They may be edited or asked to be re-written for space, but not content.
“Remember, that whatever you do or wherever you go, I love you!”
Love always
Mark
Congregation to Gather: November 11th
Stewardship....of Property, Members, Resources
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Plan to join us this Sunday following our worship service to talk about the stewardship of First Christian Church's resources. We will hear about the current status of our church attendance and the number of tithing units at FCC, the types of "funds" managed by the trustees and the balance in those funds, and a quick overview of the property appraisal.
Members will be invited to share their thoughts, reflections, and questions with which they are wrestling as the church moves forward, seeking to be the best stewards of our current and future resources --- including our most valuable resource; our members and their time, talents, and tithes. And how the decisions about our management of property will affect our future.
The congregation gathers for worship. The congregation gathers for service. The congregation gathers for fellowship. And sometimes the congregation gathers to discern God's will in its future life together. Gather together and listen, share as the Spirit leads you, and pray that we may be one as we move forward together.
JOYS & CONCERNS
Congratulations to the Hesser’s as they welcomed their first granddaughter, Sophie May Hesser, on November 3rd!
COME! SEE THE QUILT!
The Handcrafters look forward to their sale of hand-made items at the Thanksgiving Dinner following worship on November 18th. They have made knitted caps, baby shawls, Polar fleece throws and shawls, and many other things made with the coming winter in mind. The “Sunbonnets Sue” quilt will be shown Sunday in the lounge, and chances will be sold for the drawing on the 18th.
Rick Bowman has joined the Handcrafters at lunchtime, as has Donald Ulm, who plays the piano for their meal-time pleasure. He has a gift for selecting their favorite old time hymns.
For your information
The following positions were named at the Congregational Meeting/Forum:
Board Chair- Pat Dunlop
Vice Chair- Kathy Hintz
Don Cain remains Treasurer
Action by the Board
As your board chair I want to report on a very significant decision that was made at the board meeting last Tuesday, Oct 30th.
The Ministry Task Force, after considerable deliberation, recognized the need to call, in this time of congregational transition, an intentional interim minister to work with the congregation on the needs and issues that we are facing as a congregation. Also presented was a letter from Reverend Mark that affirmed the task force’s work and supported its decisions. The board accepted the Task force recommendations and Mark’s letter with a unanimous vote and thus Pastor Mark will end his time with us at the end of the year.
Pastor Mark will be working with us during this transition time and I encourage you to share your thanks and appreciation to him for the many gifts he has shared with us, and the many roles he has selflessly accepted during his ministry time with us. We will gather together as a church family to celebrate Mark’s ministry with us, and formally thank Mark for all his efforts on our behalf, in early December.
Yours in Christ
Pat Dunlop
THANKSGIVING CELEBRATION!!
Sunday, November 18, 2007
Come help us celebrate Thanksgiving at First Christian Church! You are invited to a potluck dinner after Worship on Sunday, November 18. The meat, potatoes, bread, and beverage will be provided for $3.00 per person or a maximum of $10.00 per family. Everyone is asked to bring their favorite vegetable, salad, or dessert to share. For those unable to bring food, a contribution of $5.00 per person is suggested. Please make reservations by marking your attendance sheet on Sunday, November 11 or by calling the church office no later than Monday, November 12. A nursery will be available by reservation only.
-Membership Committee and Catering