I'm truly enjoying this appointment so far. The honeymoon's over, but these folks are not malicious or hurtful in their dealings with me or each other.
We had a Church Conference yesterday after worship for the purpose of replacing the 55-year old boilers with newer, more efficient models. The folks were wonderful! There was lots of discussion about the higher utility bills since the Community DayCare moved in a year ago, but even the people who are still not happy about the DC were quite composed and pleasant about it.
Bottom line: We're getting two new furnaces. That was a no-brainer. But it also opened up a discussion about stewardship and finances. And here's where the Spirit is working.
A good friend just retired after 42 years of ministry. He and his wonderful wife moved into the community the same time we did. Church-Around-the-Corner is his home church, the church where he grew up. He's a proven visionary and stewardship expert. Last week he offered to do a Stewardship Campaign for CATC with no previous knowledge of the Boiler Project. He and his wife were in church yesterday and they stayed for the Church Conference. We high-fived after it was over and I am going to take him up on his offer. Since we've been friends for years, we know we can work together!
These folks ARE ready to grow. I'm the thing holding them back because I'm so new here. But the iron is hot and minds are open ... let's go for it!
On another note - we had 35 women turn out for the opening night for our Women's Bible Study. I was expecting about 10! Boy, was I surprised!
Folks have been remarking on the change of atmosphere: More positive, more joyful, more gracious.
Thank you, Lord!
2 comments:
Fabulous news! This makes my day.
Good on you, Grace! Our own new boilers are in and operating...and funding is "in place." Here's to coziness this winter!
Post a Comment