Revisioning our revisions

(Taken from the October Newsletter)
In conjunction with our fall presbytery meeting, a leadership conference was offered for the commissioners of the Mackinac Presbytery. The event included a keynote speaker who focused on the state of many churches and how to maintain a healthy mission and focus. In general, he indicated that churches are typically in one of three places: (1) on the way up with lots of hope and plans, (2) stable, status quo – after your vision has been mostly accomplished and you are enjoying the fruits of your labor, (3) on the decline – when the vision is no longer working and you are scrambling to identify why you are experiencing difficulty within the congregation.

As he presented, many churches nodded in agreement whenever he spoke about a particular time in a church’s life. Some are in the dreaming stage, while others are struggling through a period of decline. I found myself proudly thinking our congregation was in the second phase of stability…until he warned us against living in this period. He cautioned churches to fear this stagnation and make sure we are constantly examining our mission in the community, not just when things are in need of a change, but at all times. The church is a mission, not an institution. We are constantly being sent, not settling in one place with one vision.

As stated at our September congregational meeting, we have experienced a wonderful year and a half of major growth spiritually and physically, with a variety of new ministries, events, and enthusiasm in all areas of congregational life. It would be very easy for us to relax at this point and take pride in what has been accomplished through the Holy Spirit at Church in the Hills. However, the Church is never called to relax in our call to serve, love one another, and share the gospel. We can be proud of the work accomplished in this place, but we must always see that as further inspiration to continue our mission with even more fervor. We need to keep asking ourselves – what else can we do?

Seek opportunities for this congregation to be an expression of God’s love in our community. Dream big and let your visions be constantly adapting to the needs of God’s children everywhere.

Peace and grace to you and yours,

Pastor Andrew

Congregational Meeting after worship on September 21

While the political conventions of the past two weeks are interesting to observe, they are nothing compared to a Presbyterian Church's annual congregational meeting. I hope everyone can make it to the meeting after worship on the 21st. We will be discussing voting options for affiliate members, nominations for our four elder and two deacon positions, and presenting the budget for 2009. This is definitely a meeting to attend. I hope you can make it!