The goal of the meeting was to simply get to know each other.
First we introduced ourselves by revealing most embarrassing moments from the past. One of us accidentally kissed the back of a stranger's neck! Another tripped on his acolyte robe! Another did a back flop from the high-dive!
Next, we shared the most important moments we have experienced at First United Methodist Church of Hudson. We allowed those experiences to teach us what we and people like us need from Church. Here is the list (without names attached to maintain confidentiality):
Church should...
- Mentor new people and help them claim gifts and leadership.
- Find belonging, support and healing through intimacy in small groups.
- Welcome newcomers.
- Not be judgmental or hypocritical.
- Offer a sense of history (through rituals like baptism) and community (through experiences like the Walk to Emmaus).
- Be authentic/genuine.
- Be explicit about Jesus' welcome (as we are with Holy Communion).
- Appreciate that people are at many different stages of age and faith. Feed needs.
- Be inclusive of all people. Pay particular attention to younger people.
- Pray.
TASK IN PREPARATION FOR NEXT MEETING:
We need to discern three things,
- Our Christian Mission
- Our Church Identity
- Our Context or Demographic
Each of us agrees to help discern:
Our Christian MISSION--by reflecting on the good things we have each received from this particular church and writing one statement from all of these good things that explains what the mission of the church seems to be.
Our Church IDENTITY--by talking with church participants as well as non-participating neighbors about what FUMC is known for. Keep a written record of what people say.
Our Context or DEMOGRAPHIC--by making a list of important local organizations and people who can help us better understand realities in the community and needs of the people.
OUR NEXT MEETING WILL BE IN SEPTEMBER
The only days when those in attendance can meet are Tuesdays, Sundays and Saturdays.
Please respond to this post listing which Tuesdays in September you CAN meet.
