From Pastor Rich
I appreciate the Transforming Church Index that came out of the church surveys we completed earlier this summer. I look forward to discussing the results over the next few months in any number of church groups. So far I’ve talked to our worship and witness teams. I think it provides a great start for discussions. God will help us see where those lead, as we move forward.
Here’s my initial thoughts as your pastor.
I am encouraged over what our members perceive to be our strengths:
- That we care more about people than programs
- A shared trust in our leadership
- An awareness and confidence of how our church addresses financial issues
- The ability to freely speak our own mind here, and that our concerns are taken seriously by our leadership
- A warm and friendly environment
- How effectively we address the needs of senior citizens
I am encouraged that these strengths will help us to address our biggest challenges, according to our members perceptions:
- To define our unique gifts. What do we as a congregation have to offer that other churches don’t?
- To define our vision for the future
- To better define and respond to needs within our community
- To work to communicate these ideas to the congregation - To work to communicate these ideas to the community
- To increasingly foster creativity and innovation
This is no small list. But I think this list is essential to our mission and ministry together. Let me know what you think. Let’s keep talking.
In Christ’s name; Pastor Rich Grudt
Day of Pentecost: Red as the color of fire is used on this day when we remember the tongues of fire descended on the crowd in Jerusalem. In contrast to the color of scarlet, Pentecost’s red is a bright color.
The Holy Trinity: White is appointed, the expression of joy in the mystery of the Triune God.
Other Sundays after Pentecost: Green is used, to indicate our growth in faith as we follow the teachings and ministry of Christ.
