As you know, on Saturday, January 14, 45 people met to begin our conversation about a vision for Zion that will carry us into our second 300 years. The next week an additional 23 people continued the conversation. We acknowledged the challenges our congregation faces which are reflected in lower worship attendance, lower giving and lower participation over the last four years. We wanted to determine where our passion is focused. Where is the Holy Spirit at work in our congregation? Where is God leading us? The conversations were rich and helpful. The work has just begun, but some direction has come into focus.
On the next page, you will find a visual summary of our conversations. There was overwhelming agreement in how we see ourselves and God’s calling in our lives. We see ourselves as a community centered in the Gospel and our history. We live out our God-given purpose by worshiping, serving, and connecting. These have been the hallmarks of Zion in the past and will guide us into the future. The italicized examples in the diagram were lifted up repeatedly in the conversations. They naturally grouped into the three areas we have always focused on (worship, serving/discipleship, connecting/fellowship) and all centered on the Gospel. Each area speaks to a real need within the larger community where God has put us to work.
With our identity becoming more firmly fixed and affirmed, related issues have emerged.
* How can we focus our ministries on “doing” rather than just supporting? How can we prioritize ministries so we do fewer ministries well?
* How do we communicate better?
* How do we increase personal involvement and move people from the sidelines to the frontline?
* How can our 300th anniversary energize us as we recognize and honor those who have gone before while we plan to continue God’s story in Oldwick and the world?
This is just a snapshot of where we are. This work is OUR work. I ask everyone to be part of the conversation. I ask everyone to look for ways to engage. I ask everyone to see their role in the life and ministry of our congregation. Together, by the grace of God and the working of the Holy Spirit, the future is filled with promise.
Peace,
Pastor Summer
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