The September meeting was the first that Jack Lohr, our new interim pastor, moderated. But it was also very much a time of transition, as Jim read our opening prayer and then reflected on his experiences in the church.
Jim chose Numbers 13:25-14:9, passages when, after 40 days, the scouts return from spying. They describe the land of milk and honey, but also report that its inhabitants are strong, and made them feel like "grasshoppers." The congregation wails and considers going back to Egypt.
Jim used this imagery to talk about our church. He noted that the leadership at PCMK must move the congregation forward and not backwards. He highlighted those things in our church that are signs of abundance, among them: 6 children baptized, 11 confirmed, and 4 new families joining the church. He noted that despite the upheaval and the recession, our church has retained 89% of its pledges. Communication has improved, with better use of the website, congregational meetings, and yes – he even gave a shout out to the Session "Scout." (That's the benign version of "Spy.") Jack's blog is a welcome new addition to this outreach. (If you haven’t done so yet, check it out at: http://pcmkinterim.blogspot.com/) Jim also highlighted Jack's new leadership, as well as Terry's.
There were also "grasshopper" observations Jim shared. He believes Christian Education needs attention. Though there is not enough money in the budget for an associate pastor, Jim does not feel that the church should continue to rely solely on the efforts of a few committed volunteers. "If the church seeks to be a family church, the way to fully realize that is a professional Christian Ed person either full time or part time," he suggested. Jim also would like to see Sunday School scheduled outside of worship, noting how problematic it is to have so many parents leaving the sanctuary before the sermon.
Finally, Jim urged us not to disregard the Alban Institute Report, despite the derision it has received. True, it may be poorly written and often vague, but he believes the report contained important truths about our church that still need to be addressed.
There was no Trustees Report. The Clerk of Session had Session review and approve minutes from two meetings in August. Sue Godshall was designated commissioner for the next Presbytery meeting. Sue noted that the Book of Order requires a joint meeting between the Session and Deacons. Though we have technically complied with this, because all church boards attended officer training together earlier this year, Session will ask to attend the beginning of the October Deacon’s meeting to continue to improve communication. In addition, Session will ask the Deacons to send a representative to Session meetings.
Next, Jack gave his first Pastor's report. There was some housekeeping – vacation requests, membership roll updates and baptism approvals. Jack asked for and was granted leave to study Conflict Mediation training at the Lombard Mennonite Center in early October.
Jack talked about his outreach. He has already met with and talked to a variety of people in his first two weeks at work. Not surprisingly, he has heard a diversity of perspectives on "what really happened" and who is to blame. Jack has reached out to current and former members, and has clearly begun the pastoral work of healing. This led to a larger discussion about Session’s continued efforts to balance our past with our future. Jack would like to see us affirm what was good in the past, to recognize our part in pain that was caused, but also to truly move forward.
He then presented Session with "A Roadmap for the Interim Process." This roadmap outlines some of the basic steps that our congregation needs to take on route to calling a new permanent pastor. These will include a Mission Study process, the drafting of a Mission Discernment document and position description, which would describe what's needed in a pastor. Eventually, the congregation will elect a PNC (Pastor Nominating Committee) and that committee will embark on its work. Jack says there are many ways he can be helpful in this process, though he cannot have a role in the selection of a new pastor. The timetable for this process is not set in stone, but should take less than two years.
Session went into Executive Session for about 40 minutes. By the time we came out for air, we were hopelessly behind on the agenda, and so decided to skip our usual break.
Jack told us that Terry Flanagan has generously volunteered to hold an organ recital on October 22 as a gift to the church and community. The proceeds will benefit the mission and ministry of the church.
Session voted to approve the hiring of Sarah Lucas, assisted by Shina Abraham, as seminarian for youth.
Committee reports were mercifully brief, as most were coming off a quiet summer. Of note – Rady Bauer has been hard at work getting the membership board in shape, organizing all the nametags. Plans for the Progressive dinner are also in the works – stay tuned for details. Social Justice reported that it has been a busy summer at the Food Pantry. The church will participate in the Northeast Westchester CROP walk this October 31. Funds go to fight hunger and 25% of monies are distributed locally. Personnel reported that they have hired Ed Duffy as a back-up facilities manager. They also helped Jack with the move, which included having the manse cleaned and ready for its new tenants.
Closing prayer was something new – we stood and held hands, prompting one Elder to say, "But we're Presbyterians!" Jack demonstrated his excellent management skills by ending the meeting before 10 p.m., despite a heavy agenda. Amen.
Faithfully Submitted,
The Session Spy/Correspondent/Scout
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