It was delightfully fun, and seriously meaningful! - Last evening's Mutual Ministry Review at St. Ann's. Twenty-something people gathered to share our thoughts about our mutual support of ministry efforts at St. Ann's.
Congregational responses to the "questions" were distributed, and Rev. Conley's responses were shared as well. Rev. Bonnie Perry facilitated our reflections and insights.
Thanks so very much to all you who participated . . . to everyone who responded to the questions, and to everyone who was present.
In case you are curious, all the responses have been collated and will be available in printed format -- in the "Communications Corridor" on Sunday (May 23rd)!
If you want to talk about this Review . . . please contact Joan Purdy (815-338-7092) or Ben Phillips (815-337-2004).
Rev. Conley's responses are provided below:
To Each Person At St. Ann's
Three things (well, four) . . . I Need more of - from parishioners . . .
1. You have not previously had the opportunity to provide this . . . but, in 2011 I am looking to take a "Clergy Renewal" leave. You'll hear more. And, I need your support in many ways for this to happen.
2. St. Ann's needs clerical/technical staff. 12-18 Hours per week. Starting, as soon as we can fund it. But, at least starting 2011. This will resolve my need for staff support.
3. We all need you to show up on Sundays, when we are in town.
4. I need you to share your personal spiritual life . . . your victories, your struggles . . . what is being Christian like for you this week? Please share with me, and your St. Ann's friends.
Three things (well, two) . . . I Need less of - from parishioners . . .
1. Less "satisfaction" . . . a willingness to keep working together, often amending our methods, always clarifying our means of addressing our mission together. (Not that you seem satisfied, for the most part, you are willing to grow.)
2. Less hesitation. I need you to speak up and offer your ideas, time, energy . . . help - before being asked, if possible.
Three things (and so many more) "just right" - about/from parishioners !
1. You are sooooo wonderfully welcoming! To everyone.
2. You want to say "yes" . . . and are always willing to say yes, if at all possible.
3. I know that you appreciate me, and that Roma and I are welcome here.
Thanks so much!
Rev. Pat Conley
St. Ann's Episcopal Church
503 W. Jackson, Woodstock
815-338-0950
