First Presbyterian Church

April, 2009

At its last meeting, the session adopted a new structure that will be a little different. Instead of the eleven session committees we now have, we will be working with four ministries: Worship & Music, Nurture & Education, Mission & Evangelism, and Stewardship & Property. Each ministry will have session leadership with a chair and vice chair who are on session. In addition, at least three congregational members will be appointed by session for a one-year term on each ministry. 

These ministries will meet on one Wednesday a month after a congregational dinner. Those who come to the dinner and are not already serving on a ministry will be invited to sit in on the meeting of their choice. 

The advantages of this reorganization are as follows:

• Instead of the eleven session members, this structure will allow for nine elders. It has become increasingly difficult to find eleven elders to serve a three-year term. Nine elders are adequate for leadership under this new structure.

•  By making some of the committees that now exist sub committees, they can be led by non-session members. These groups will report to session through the ministries they are under and will be free organize in different ways to do their work.

• By having all ministries meet on one night, if they need to coordinate on some activity, this will facilitate communication.

• A goal for our church is to draw more people into work and ministry. By having a congregational dinner before the meetings, members can be invited to sit in on the meeting of their choice to give their opinion and to volunteer for a project without committing to a three-year term on Session or a one-year term as a member of a ministry.

• Those who are not able to drive, or have difficulty driving after dark, can be picked up and taken home. This will help to not only include elderly folks in the dinner, but also to be involved in the work of the church without long commitments and to the extent of their abilities.

• Having a congregational dinner will promote fellowship. 

This structure is a work in progress. Some changes may need to be made over this year as we evaluate its effectiveness. I hope that all church members and regular attendees will consider getting involved to the extent of their abilities.  This is your church and your ministry. 

                                                                                          - Pastor Scott