State of Unity
 As we move forward into a
new stage of growth for our
ministry both in consciousness
and in size we are excited about
the new paradigm that we are creating.
This new approach involves a
move away from a hierarchical
structure where church programs
and events are managed by ministers
and staff to a new form that empowers the congregation
to serve and minister to each other and the wider community.
I want to share four characteristics of this new approach:
- Empowerment of the congregation through permission-giving. This means that we all take responsibility for our involvement
in the church to the level of our commitment and we encourage
others to do likewise. We acknowledge that we are all in this
together and we do not wait for someone else to do it for us.
However, we do understand that we all serve the mission, vision,
and goals of the ministry.
- Transparency in terms of communication of ideas and decisions. Permission-giving only works when there is a willingness to
openly share ideas, feelings and decisions. This self-honesty is
a key element in keeping the community healthy. It avoids misunderstanding and fosters care for each other.
- Support and empathy as a community dedicated to love; The foundational teaching of Jesus Christ is love; love
for God and for our fellow human beings. Our dedication and
consecration of ourselves as individuals and as a community to love
and compassion is a daily commitment to living the Christ-centered life.
It shows in all we do.
- Challenge to come up higher and be honest in all we think, say, and do. To move beyond judgement, misunderstanding or holding out in our
separate sense of self, often called ego, it is important that we challenge
ourselves to come up higher in consciousness, demonstrating self honesty and
humility. At times it is appropriate that we lovingly challenge others to do the same.
These four characteristics of empowerment, clarity, love, and
challenge are ways to truly live the life Jesus called us to lead.
They call us to stretch, to grow, to be honest, to be real. The rewards are great.
Many Blessings,
2003 - 2004 Goals
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