Moving Toward a Program Model Church - a Spiritual Reflection on Working in a Small Group Toward a Large Goal

Joanne H. Gutt, Vestry

Working toward a large goal is a daunting task. In order to accomplish a

large goal it needs to be broken down into small pieces. There is no room

for procrastination and at the same time it can’t be rushed. Andrew

Hardister, Harriet Degreenia, Beth Nagy and I have been working with Kate,

Keith and other Vestry members on St. Paul’s plan to move to a Program

Church Mode. Hopefully you heard about it during the services on April 25 and 26 - 
and you may read the report here.

As a small group we are learning to work together, listen to each other

and worry together. We recognize that each of us has different ideas and

talents and that we all have a limited amount of time. The spiritual

aspects of working together include newly found friendships, the bond

we feel for the project and the recognition that many hands make light

work. As we recognize that this is hard work, we pray for strength.

As we move forward in this project we pray for wisdom, creativity and open

minds. We pray that as others join us in this journey, they will also feel

the joy of accomplishment in doing the work Jesus wants us to do.

“Don’t ask yourself what the world needs. Ask yourself what makes you come

alive and then go do that. Because what the world needs is people who have

come alive.” * Dr. Howard Thurman *

May we not do work because we think we ought to. Rather, may we "come

alive" and see where that leads us.

Using information from our recently conducted church survey, the Vestry began their work of moving St. Paul's to a Program Model Church at their Vestry retreat in March.  The presentation Joanne refers to in this blog post may be found here, along with more information about the Mutual Ministry Review process.

The photograph of the Vestry was taken at their retreat, where this important work was begun. (Several Vestry members were not present for the photo)