Let me begin by thanking Anne Burris, Bob Ross, Carolyn Shaw, Jasper Lesage, and a host of volunteers for putting together the Welcome Reception for Janet and me last Sunday. And a shout out to those who brought the covered dishes. They were “tasty” and a great complement to smoked pulled pork.
My next step with our congregants, elders, deacons, and staff is to host Town hall meetings on Saturday morning or Sunday after the 11:00 am service or a combination of Saturday and Sunday dates to discuss each of the bullet points below. The Town Hall meetings will include either breakfast or lunch.
We have six discussions for each of the six bullet points in an authentic, genuine, open, and constructive way. I want to gain as much ownership from the participants as possible in how we move forward in shaping the renewed and invigorated Grace. I will be…
- Assisting the congregation in ascertaining how our past has shaped who we are today.
- Helping the congregation clarify its identity.
- Facilitating the congregation to identify its strengths and challenges, including any staffing (lay or ordained) transitions.
- Guiding the congregation in strengthening its relationship with the larger church and local community.
- Assisting the congregation in preparing for new leadership, encouraging the people to envision and plan for a new future.
- Assisting with the ongoing implementation of our recently developed strategic plan.
I’m excited to begin this journey with you. I anticipate an enriching time together as we lean into the Grace Presbyterian Church God envisions through each congregant, elder, deacon, and staff member. And God will use each one of us to create a unifying identity for Grace.
On the journey of Christian discipleship with you, I remain faithfully yours,
Steve
The Rev. Dr. Steven M. Marsh, Interim Pastor
Share
JAN