Whats Happening

    My mind has been racing for the last few days about what needs to be accomplished over the next two months.  For me, the following issues are on my list.  Some initial meetings have already been set to address the five issues listed below.  Over the summer, I will report to you the progress on these issues.
    First, we are having a discussion in the office about how to best communicate with you the progress that is being made to call a new senior pastor.  Should we establish a new blog with entries only when something concrete can be reported?  Should we devise special e-mails reporting the work of the Call Committee?  If we use a blog or e-mail, what about the households that do not have or use this technology?  Should we have a minute temple talk by a member of the Call Committee during the worship services to report progress being made?
    Second, as part of the call process, the Council produced several documents; i.e., a purpose statement, a vision for the next 10 years, a profile of the congregation, and a job description for the new pastor.  How do we share these documents with you?  What is the best way to communicate the rationale behind the vision concerning worship, education, outreach, fellowship, and a new administrative structure?  How can we answer your questions?
    Third, what is the best way to communicate, on a regular basis, what is happening at Epiphany through a newsletter.  In small churches, the newsletter reports what has already happened and who did what.  In medium size churches, the newsletter lists every ministry program so everyone knows what is happening.  In large churches, the newsletter is a weekly publication with a maximum length of four pages.  It has a devotional message from the pastor, perhaps a testimonial from one or two members, and highlights one or two ways the congregation is making a difference for its members and in the community.  Epiphany is a large church.  Does that mean we should replace the bimonthly Star with a weekly newsletter supplemented with the Epiphany news that is sent out to the congregation every Friday?  What is the best communication media to distribute the newsletter?
    Fourth, a financial plan needs to be established for the next five years.  What are the financial resources needed to call a new senior pastor, maintain and grow our present and future staff, and to implement new ministries?  How should the current Capital Campaign and other designated funds be used and when?  Will current giving trends continue to grow?
    Fifth, there needs to be a strong and assertive Stewardship Campaign this fall.  What should the goals of that campaign be?  Should the fall campaign be in addition to a revisiting of the Capital Campaign?  This would mean that there will be two request for giving.  Can Epiphany accept two campaigns within a one or two month period?
    Added to this list are plans for future teaching, sermon writing and preaching, administrative oversight, and just having some fun with a very dedicated staff.  It will be a busy summer for me.
Pastor Pete