That was my view when the staff debated the pros and cons of all the alternatives for implementing the new schedule. We're all very emotionally involved with the new schedule, as well as being typical methodological Methodists, so we have passionate discussions.
Out of that came the common realization that the new worship teams are really central to the change. These teams have to address all the logistical issues from the change -- for example, will the current volunteers continue? -- but they're also taking the opportunity to look at all areas of the service with fresh eyes. And it's going to be hard to get it all done by Advent.
One of the things they'll be working on that I really like is picking a name. Every service needs a name that communicates its unique identity -- like the Blue Jean Service. It's good that the teams are doing it, because sometimes when I'll use an adjective to describe a service in our communications, people take it to Richard and ask him what's going on! What is this "Traditional-with-a-twist"???
A very important part is how children will be incorporated into each service. Personally, I like to see kids involved in worship -- I once took communion from my (then) 12-year-old daughter and it was a very unique experience, one that underlined for me how children are really closer to the Kingdom of God than us jaded adults. Children are proof positive to our eyes of new life, of growth, of future possibility. It's no surprise many parents find their eyes opened to God after they have a child. What a wonderful opportunity we have to think about such a Holy thing.
The new Welcome Center is a worry. How will it get done? We desperately need an Interior Designer to draw a design up for us. Per all my speeches about avoiding "scope creep," I don't know that the Welcome Center has to be done in time for Advent or the New Year, but it sure would be nice, given all the new visitors we want to attract.
--- Joe Roitz
Testing the comments!
Posted by: Joe Roitz | 08/24/2010 at 04:18 PM