Notes from Sunday "Holy Conversation"

1. What is church?
World-wide community, particular church, building, a place where we come to share our joys and concerns, faith community, believers in many stages of the journey, family helping each other and the world, extended family--the constant (embodied presence), learning of God's teachings and how to apply, "Our purpose is to know God and make God known." Image of family is good--a body you have responsibility to and a resource.

2. What brought/keeps you here?
Moving here with kids--SS, education, participation
Disenchanted with current church.
Found a place--a place in heart.
More comfortable pews.
The constant is the people.
Vibrancy, transformation
Younger, newer members, opportunities for church

3. Qualities of church?
open-mindedness
acceptance of differences in views and lifestyle
community outreach
sharing of building (eg: Mothers' Tea)
we've been through it!
enormous resources in talent, skill
transition--incorporating young families

4. Like to see 5 years on?
We're been talking about trying to determine our mission. Although we're independent thinkers, define our mission/purpose and have a pastor who can lead us in that direction.
Forward-thinking--Will we be ready to provide what the congregation of the future requires?
After they join the church, know how to keep kids.
Keeping programs and developing new approaches to keep them involved.
Different sized congregations have different management styles. With balanced budget being able to staff an association pastor to focus on youth/mission.
youth minister who remains year-to-year.
Terry still here.

5. Gifts needed in next pastor?
Not just good administrator but significant experience.
plus personality to keep congregation members.
Sophisticated congregation--able to respond.
Good fundraiser--able to generate support.
In choice between CEO and spiritual leader, choose spiritual leader.
What makes us different from service club or synagogue? Making Christ known.
Many needs--hand-holding, sermons, money management, CEO.
Not based on perceived shortcomings of previous pastors.
Someone open to dialogue
suited to empower congregation
A spiritual leader.
Openness requires knowledge of what's there.
Accept that there are other factors
open to give and take

--Jack Lohr, Interim Pastor