|
|
|
| Group Effort"The gifts Christ gave were that some would be apostles, some prophets, some evangelists, some pastors and teachers, to equip the saints for the work of ministry..." Ephesians 4:11 Dear Friends, According to the Bible, the work of ministry belongs to all of us, and each of us has our own unique roll to play. Here at PB UMC, members of the church staff and leaders of ministry areas within the church are eager to help you find your place of involvement and service. We try to issue many invitations for participation, so that no one will feel overlooked, or not included. Even in this effort to present opportunities, we need your partnership. Other than God, you are the best expert on yourself. Only you have the complete picture of your responsibilities, activities, and obligations. Only you know how many people have asked you this week, "Would you like to be part of "x" group or "y" committee or "z" ministry?" The bottom line is, we're counting on you to say "yes" when you can (and want to) and "no" when you need to or must. It is never our goal to wear people out. It is always our goal that commitments taken up for Christ provide a joyful (even if perhaps challenging) opportunity to grow in faith and the love of God. If Malea or Fran or Kristian or Maggie or Ron or I ask you if you'd like to do something; if a member of the nominating committee, or the chairperson of a committee asks you to serve; if a small group leader asks you to join we do so in the faith that you will give the right answer. We respect the fact that both "yes" and "no" are good answers, and that you will respond as God guides you. As our church grows, and perhaps becomes more “decentralized,” you may get more good invitations for participation in ministry than you can accept. If you need help choosing, please ask. By the same token, if somehow you are not being asked to do the thing you would most love to do, please say so! We love to have people step forward and offer their time and talent. We can't promise to always be successful at putting you right to work, but we can promise to give it our best consideration and effort. Church staff and members alike are doing our best to move forward in ministry in a way that involves everyone and makes use of our many gifts. Our process may be imperfect, but our goal is to serve Christ. So, we are patient with each other and respect each other's wisdom. We are grateful to have each other as partners in ministry. United with you through the Spirit, Pastor April |
|
|