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THE MONTHLY CAUCUS
The Episcopal Women's Caucus:
Advocating for women since 1971, theologically, spiritually and politically.
January 2012 |
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IN THIS ISSUE:
* A Valentine of SUPPORT for THE CAUCUS @ CONVENTION
*Christmas Billboard from New Zealand
* Transitions: The Rev. Margaret Rose and The Rev. Elizabeth Kaeton
*National Council of Churches call for Lenten Prayers
* Gender Analysis Brochure from National Council of Churches
*Council of Episcopal Womens' Organizations
* If You Are In The D.C. Area - and other conferences around the country
* Two new book resources
* 2 Videos
* Unique bag that supports victims of human trafficking.
*Radical Hospitality - an article about one person's search for a new church (worth reading to the end -often it is not the 'issues' that keep away from church but rather they way they are treated.)
The EWC is planning to have a daily prayerful presence at our General Convention Booth. We are looking for a few good women who will help to write a short 10 minute prayer service for noonday, using expansive/inclusive language. These prayer services will be collected together in a booklet we hope to distribute. If you are interested, please contact Elizabeth Kaeton: motherkaeton@gmail.com If you will be at General Convention - lay or clergy deputy, bishop or visitor - and would like to take part in leading a prayer service, please also contact Elizabeth Kaeton.
The Episcopal Women's Caucus strives to offer views from different women, lay or ordained, throughout the Church and to hold up celebrations, events, achievements, or struggles that involve women. If you are interested in contributing - whether through an article you have written or a newsworthy item - please contact either Karen Bota, the editor of RUACH KDBota@aol.com or Gigi Conner, The Monthly Caucus gigipriest@prodigy.net
The Episcopal Women's Caucus is on Facebook and we have a website website: www.episcopalwomenscaucus.org.
Please feel free to pass along articles to friends or forward this email ... and let us hear from you. And if you are a member and would like to "re-up" your membership, please do so by filling out the coupon at the bottom of the page. If you are new to the Caucus and would like to be a member, please use the same form.
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Dear Friends and Supporters of EWC,
At General Convention,
· The Caucus maintains an information and hospitality booth where deputies, clergy and bishops can obtain information about such things as expansive language liturgies, networking, advocacy, as well as finding support and encouragement for the on-going work of peace, justice and reconciliation.
· The Caucus Breakfast remains part celebration, part inspiration for the continued work of women in the church. In 2012, Bonnie Anderson will be our speaker, addressing the rising concern about new models of leadership.
·Our legislative team identifies and tracks legislation from committee to hearings and on the floor of convention and lobbies with deputies and bishops to pass or defeat resolutions concerning issues of race, gender, sexuality, and economic justice.
This year, we need to raise $20,000 in order to maintain our presence and activities at General Convention. With your help, we can.
Your contribution will enable us to be present and "stand in the temple and tell" the stories of women in the church and the world. Please be as generous as you can be.
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Here is a valentine from The Episcopal Women's Caucus
You should be able to copy and give to those you love.
Hopefully when we give to others it is not out of a sense duty or obligation
but rather out of the deepest sense of love -
the origin of which comes from the One who loved us first.
You could show love for the caucus by making a contribution
to support our booth @ General Convention.
Our booth provides a place for respite, reflection, and renewal.
And BTW we love you and appreciate your constant support.
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 Bravo to St. Matthew's in the City in Auckland, New Zealand for their courage in using their billboards to constantly challenge people's perceptions of Scripture and today's situations in life. |
The Rev. Margaret Rose named Episcopal Church
Deputy for Ecumenical and Interfaith Collaboration
From Episcopal News Service
The Rev. Margaret Rose has been named the Episcopal Church Deputy for Ecumenical and Interfaith Collaboration. The announcement was made December 19 by Sam McDonald, Director of Mission and Deputy Chief Operating Officer.
As Deputy for Ecumenical and Interfaith Collaboration, Rose will articulate and represent the ecumenical and interfaith positions of the Episcopal Church as well as develop strategies and actions supporting Presiding Bishop Katharine Jefferts Schori's vision for ecumenical and interfaith relations. Working with colleagues, she will seek to foster ecumenical and interfaith dialogue and cooperation with other Christian communions and world religions. Her particular focus will be on furthering partnerships and common understanding at the local level.
Additionally, Rose will work with dioceses, congregations and Episcopal institutions in their ecumenical and interfaith efforts. As Deputy, she is the Episcopal Church representative on the World Council of Churches, the National Council of Churches of Christ and other bodies. She will participate in Anglican Communion's strategic planning and execution of ecumenical and interfaith agendas. The position is based at the Church Center in New York City, although Rose will travel to meet with the Church's ecumenical partners. She will be a member of the Global Partnerships team in the Mission Office.
Most recently Rose served as co-director of mission for the Episcopal Church. She joined the Episcopal Church staff in 2003 as Director of Women's Ministries.
To contact Rose: mrose@episcopalchurch.org |
 Elizabeth Kaeton Elected to Board of RCRC
(Episcopal News Service] The Rev. Elizabeth Kaeton has been elected to a three-year term on the national board of the Religious Coalition for Reproductive Choice. The Episcopal Church is among 40 denominations and faith groups belonging to the RCRC.
John Vanderstar, a representative of the Episcopal Women's Caucus on the RCRC Council of Governors and a member of the Strategic Planning Committee, nominated Kaeton, who is the only Episcopalian on the 25-member board.
"Elizabeth is a very bright and highly experienced cleric and counselor. She is very committed to our issues and our organization," Vanderstar said in his nomination.
An Episcopal priest in the Diocese of Newark now living in Delaware, Kaeton is national convener of the Episcopal Women's Caucus and past president of the New Jersey chapter of RCRC. She has participated in and coordinated training sessions for "A Peaceful Presence" at several outpatient clinics in Northern New Jersey and participated in the state chapter's lobbying efforts in Trenton and Washington, D.C.
"I believe that the 'war on women' is real. Reproductive rights - from education to prevention and early intervention - are being eroded by the very people who say they believe in God and Jesus as well as 'smaller government,'" Kaeton said via e-mail. "The work and voices of RCRC have never been more important. I am excited and honored to join this stellar board. My sleeves are rolled up, and my running shoes are on." |
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World Council of Churches Call for Submissions - Prayers for Lent
Words Matter
rests on the conviction that the words we choose to use really do matter. An initiative of the Justice for Women Working Group of the National Council of Churches, USA, Words Matter is not just about inclusive gender language or women's issues, but stretches to address all boundaries where "us" meets "them." Words Matter values relationship and storytelling, expansive rather than restricted language, cultural attentiveness, and an understanding of how words are tied to systems of power.
This Lent, Words Matter is exploring the words we use when we pray. We are accepting submissions of prayers using expansive language to be posted on our website (www.WordsMatter.org) during Lent 2012. Would you consider writing one?
Guidelines for submissions:
- Write using any style or format you wish-or none. Prayers from any and all traditions are welcome, including those where prayers are not usually written down. We hope that through exposing ourselves to a wide variety of expansive language prayers, we will learn new language, images, and forms in deep ways that we can draw on in any context.
- Prayers do not have to use words-submissions of artwork and photography are also welcome with the acknowledgement that there are many ways in which we communicate.
- Use expansive language. We are looking for more than "inclusive language" here-which in many cases serves only to neutralize and obscure. Instead, we are looking for more, new, forgotten, and different specific images, words, and metaphors for God and people.
- Expansive prayers also address expansive topics. What topics do you not see addressed in the prayers you hear in church? Is there something you want to pray for but can't find the words?
- Prayers may or may not be based on the Lectionary readings for Lent. Please note if your prayer is linked to one of these texts.
- Prayers can be submitted anonymously, with your name, with a short bio, or with a brief paragraph reflecting on your experience writing the prayer (200 words or less!).
- Your submission indicates that you consent to the standard National Council of Churches media release: I grant NCC and its affiliates the nonexclusive, perpetual, worldwide right to reproduce, publish, and otherwise use the written and visual submissions in any and all media and formats, including but not limited to books, newsletters, and other publications. They may be archived for broadcast at any time, for an unlimited number of broadcasts. No compensation will be due me for any use of the Images and/or Remarks. I waive any interest and rights, including copyright, that I may have in my Remarks or in any Images, and I release NCC from liability from any infringement of any personal or property right that I may have in the Images and/or Remarks.
- Prayers must be submitted by email to mmanas@ncccusa.org no later than February 10, 2012.
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Council of Episcopal Women's Organizations Meet in New York
Representatives from several Episcopal womens' organizations met this January at the Episcopal Church Center in New York. Each group reported on their mission and ministry and updates were given on the horrific still present and growing issue of human trafficking, resolutions being presented at General Convention from the Commitee on the Status of Women, upcoming conferences and more. The Rev. Ann Tiemeyer from the World Council of Churches made a presentation about gender issues (see above download about gender analysis).
The Council meets on a yearly basis in order to stay connected and to offer support. The Monthly Caucus will begin including a write-up about a different organzation each month - including that group's mission and upcoming events. Web sites are listed in our Quick Links section.
Episcopal Church Women (ECW): Marcia Himes
Episcopal Women's History Project (EWHP):Matilda Dunn
Episcopal Community: Sue Schlanbusch and Elizabeth Hart
Daughters of the King (DOK): Grace Sears and Phyllis Larsen
Connecting Episcopal Women: Joy Mills
United Thank Offering (UTO) Sarita Redd and Barbi Tinder
Episcopal Women's Caucus (EWC): Gigi Conner
Anglican Women's Empowerment (AWE): Kim Robey and Jane Appleyard Roel
International Anglican Women's Network (IAWN): Sandra McPhee
Committee on Status of Women(CSW): Cynthia Black
Global Women's Fund: Lauren Salminen
Society of the Community of the Holy Cross: Melinda Stanley
Church Staff: Mary Getz
Facilitator: Susan Johnson
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If you are in the D.C. area next week
 Washington, D.C. - The Violence Against Women Act
Updates from the field and need for swift reauthorization
Next Thursday, January 26 - 2:30 - 4:00 PM
226 DIRKSON Senate office Building
Featured Panelists:
*Ben Brustkern, Executive Director, Cedar Valley Friends of the Family, Iowa
* Chic Dabby, Director, Asian & Pacific Islander Institute on Domestic Violence
* Cindy Dyer, Vice President, Human Rights, Vital Voices Global Partnership and former
Director, Office on Violence Against Women, U.S. Department of Justice
* David Thomas, Program Administrator, Domestic Violence Education, Johns Hopkins
University
*Lori Weinstein, Executive Director, Jewish Women International
*Terri Poore, Public Affairs Director, Florida Council Against Sexual Violence; and Vice-President, National Alliance to End Sexual Violence
*Tonya Lovelace, Project Director, Women of Color Network
Rsvp with your name and organization to Qudsia Jafree
giafree@ywca.org or call 202-835-2356
CONFERENCES
Please note - these are but a few of the conferences offered at each of these retreat centers,
but all designed to challenge our 'status quo' way of thinking.
Check their websites for more information.
NEW YORK CITY - UNITED NATIONS Headquarters: February 27 - March 9, 2012
Commission on Status of Women: United Nations 56th Session to address rural women and their role in poverty eradication. Themes include:
1.) Priority theme: The empowerment of rural women and their role in poverty and hunger eradication, development and current challenges
2.) Review theme: Financing for gender equality and the empowerment of women from the fifty-second session)
3.) Emerging issue: Engaging young women and men, girls and boys, to advance gender equality
The AWE Program at UNCSW will begin Friday, February 24 and continue through midday on Saturday, March 4. This time period allows for orientation on the first weekend and a vital wrap-up period the following Saturday for new, sponsored attendees. Our program will be hosted by the Episcopal Church Center and will include workshops, discussion and worship which will add to the rich, varied activities put on by the NGO CSW committee here in New York see registration information
Kanu ga Conference Center, North Carolina www.kanuga.org
April 23-26: NATIONAL EPISCOPAL PREACHING CONFERENCE - Recasting the Sermon: What Language Shall We Borrow?
Co-sponsored with the Episcopal Preaching Foundation, this conference for clergy and seminarians will explore how sermons are heard today, how to improve their reception and what role social media, technology and innovation play. Explore emerging patterns of proclamation with Mars Hill teaching pastor Shane Hipps, theologian Tony Jones, author Dr. Lauren Winner and liturgics professor the Rev. Dr. Ruth Meyers. Participants also will receive peer feedback on one of their sermons in small preaching groups. Coordinator: The Rev. Dr. William Brosend, Sewanee School of Theology. Musicians: Theodicy Jazz Collective, New Haven, Conn.
KIRKRIDGE CENTER- BANGOR, PA www.kirkridge.org
(Kirkwood has created a companion relationship with the Iona Community of Scotland.) May 21-24, 2012: Honoring Sabbath: Doing Worship Differently- Led by John Bell
For over 25 years, John Bell and his colleagues have worked with ordained and lay people in mainline churches, enabling them to find new ways of expressing themselves in song, the sharing of scripture and liturgical action. This event will reflect on insights and practices which are meant to be shared. The liturgy of the Christian churches has always been in transition. We do not celebrate eucharist as either the first or fifteenth century Christians did. Our churches have changed shape as much through ecclesiastical philosophy as architectural fashion. Hymns which our grandparents sang can sometimes cause embarrassment when suggested for public use today. However, in our contemporary context the growth of mega-churches, the influence of televangelists and the popularity of saccharine spirituality and success theology can confuse Christians who want to be loyal to their biblical and denominational roots. The appeal of worship products rather than processes can lead to cheapness and gimmickry.
So what is essential to preserve and what can we change?
John Bell and his colleagues work across the globe but principally in the UK and North America. Here, at Kirkridge, he will share good insight and good practices which have enabled new life to emerge in localworshipping communities. John Bell is a member of The Iona Community and the Wild Goose Resource Group. He is a hymn-writer, author and occasional broadcaster, but retains a primary passion for congregational song.
The Ghost Ranch, Abiqui, New Mexico www.ghostranch.org/about/see-our-brochures July 16-22 - especially designed for young adults in their 20's & 30's. 
To The Home Of Peace: A Spirituality For Change led by Ali & John Philip Newell and Nahum Ward-Lev. During this week we will explore what it means to live in harmony with the earth and to choose the way of peace in every moment and relationship of our lives as a way of serving transformation in the world. The retreat, which uses as its basic text words from the Quran, 'God invites us to the Home of Peace,' continues the work of the Praying for Peace Initiative in which we pray and chant for peace by using words from the Hebrew scriptures, the teachings of Jesus and the Quran.
Ali Newell is a Church of Scotland minister who works as a spiritual advisor for the Ignatian Center of Spirituality in Glasgow. John Philip Newell is a poet, a scholar and a teacher. Formerly Warden of Iona Abbey in the Western Isles of Scotland, he is currently Writer Theologian for The Cathedral of The Isles on Cumbrae and Companion Theologian for the Community of Casa del Sol. Nahum Ward-Lev is a rabbi who has taught scripture at synagogues, churches, and retreat centers across the country, including Ghost Ranch. He is also the Scholar-In-Residence at Temple Beth Shalom, Santa Fe, NM.
ADELYNROOD, MASS. RETREAT CENTER www.Adelynrood.org 
Adelynrood is a retreat center in Adelynrood, Mass., owned and operated by The Society of the Companions of the Holy Cross, a community of women, Christ's disciples, called by God to a life of prayer, transformation and reconciliation.
August 3 - 5: Women, Spirituality and Tranformative Leadership: Led by The Rt. Rev. Mary Douglas Glasspool
Transformative Bishop Mary Glasspool will lead us in exploring the practicalities, challenges, and specific gifts of women's leadership. Our time together will be based on the ground-breaking book Women, Spirituality and Transformative Leadership: Where Grace meets Power. The book is a stunning collection of writings by women of many faiths, and we will use its wisdom and questions as our basis to begin our experience. This weekend will be an interactive time of presentation, discussion, small group connection and engagement. We will dig deep in our work together as we look at how to bring about transformation in this fastpaced world. Be prepared to be transformed and empowered!
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TWO GOOD RESOURCES FOR STUDY
The Jewish Annotated New Testament: New Revised Standard Version
Editors: Amy-Jill Levine and Marc Zvi Brettler; Oxford University Press, 2011
This book serves to:
1)High-light in its annotations and essays aspects of first- and second -century Judaism that enrich the understanding of the New Testament: customs, literature, and interpretations of biblical texts.
2) Highlight connections between the New Testament material and later Jewish (especially rabbinic) literature, so readers can track similar as well as distinct ideas across time.
3) Address problems that Jewish readers in particular may find in reading the New Testament, especially passages that have been used to perpetuate anti-Judaism and the stereotypes that non-Jewish readers sometimes bring to the texts.
The editors state: We hope that non-Jewish readers will learn to appreciate that significant sections of the New Testament derive from the heart of Judaism, and that they will be able to undersatnd these texts without importing false notions of the tradition of Jesus and his earliest followers. We further hope that this volume will make the new Testament more welcoming to Jewish readers (many of whom are unfamiliar with its contents), that these new readers may become better acquainted with the traditions of their neighbors, and that perhaps they may even experience "holy envy" in the reading.
Women, Spirituality and Transformative Leadership: Where Grace meets Power Edited by Kathe Schaaf, Kay Lindahl, Kathleen S. Hurty, PhD, and Reverend Guo Cheen, Cofounders of Women of Spirit and Faith; Skylight Paths Publishing, Woodstock, Vermont, 2012
This is a great book to read alone or to use with a group of women as a study 'guide.' This resource engages women in an interactive exploration of the challenges and opportunities on the frontier of women's spiritual leadership.Through the voices of North American women representing a matrix of diversity - ethnically, spiritually, religiously, generationally and geographically - women will be inspired to new expressions of thier own personal leadership and called into powerful collaborative action.
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A must watch for anyone who advocates for girls and women
or who doesn't know about the status of girls/women worldwide.
 | | It Only Takes a Girl |
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Only one reason why the church needs to open hearts and minds to resources beyond our own doors - this musical offering is "O God you search me and you know me" by Bernadette Farrall and is based on Psalm 139. Sheet music available from OCP Publications.
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Buy Her Bag Not her Body is created by
Nomi Network, a non-profit organization working to eradicate sexual slavery and the trafficking of women.
We've created a partnership between the fashion industry and cause-driven, well-designed merchandise made by at-risk women and survivors of sexual exploitation, providing them with fair, sustainable employment opportunities.
Supported by people like you, our stylish, high quality products don't just look good, they do good. 100% of the profit is reinvested into training and career development programs for women. For more information about our work, please visit our website at www.nominetwork.org. |
Words on Welcome: Observations/Comments on Radical Hospitality 
by Susan Bremiller
Due to two long-distance moves, I recently found myself in the unenviable position of searching for a new church home twice in the past 18 months. I've considered solely Episcopal churches because I was baptized in one, and because of the lovely signs in every town promising "The Episcopal Church Welcomes You." As it turns out, each specific church seems to have its own concept or degree of welcome.
Church of the Truly Radical Welcome
I had moved to a different state and the first church home I found was through their website which promised radical acceptance and hospitality, and I was not disappointed. I first noticed the building and then decided to visit their exquisite formal garden and labyrinth which is open to the public. When I finally got up the nerve to attend my first Sunday service (newly arrived in town, I literally knew no one.), I was noticed and warmly welcomed immediately by a member of the congregation who firmly led my socially-intimidated self around by the elbow, introducing me to every member of the congregation we encountered. I was greeted warmly and with interest by all, and most folks earnestly invited me to the coffee hour after the service. She then invited me to sit by her, and helped guide and instruct me through the service. Later, staying for coffee was really not an option, and I was warmly ushered into the church.
Church A: Church of the Unguided
Having more self-confidence this time around, when I first attended I actively sought out others, introducing myself and explaining my search for a new church home. I was warmly welcomed by a number of parishioners, who introduced me to others. Some have become good friends and have remained so even after my novelty as the new girl has worn off. This church lacks a rector, however, and though the search continues for another, I definitely notice how the lack of a central leader effects all church activities (and lack thereof) in myriad ways. People tend to be very task-oriented and rather insular: Yes, the community meal gets served, the vestry keeps the bills paid and the building functioning; the music director and the choir function (beautifully!); but what are lacking are vision, and energy, and direction for the future. We need the inspiration of a capable and charismatic leader to motivate and inspire the sub-groups to function as a team, and to expand our concepts of what more or else our Church can be or do. Cliques/sections/committees of a church do not a church make. We are sheep, albeit dedicated, highly capable and functional groups of sheep, without a shepherd. Though I attend and feel a member here because of my love for and friendship with the people, I am concerned about and frustrated by the on-going lack of leadership. So I've looked into other local options, and this is what I've found:
Church B: Church of the Oblivious
Arriving early, I went downstairs to search for the restrooms. I encountered a group of senior ladies seated and chatting around a table. No one noticed or spoke to me even though I clearly didn't know my way around: Finally I meekly interrupted and asked where the facilities were. Without stopping her conversation, one of them merely pointed towards a door. When I was finished I went back upstairs. I was not approached by the usher or given a program, but after looking around a bit I approached him and asked where the holy water was. (In the Episcopal churches I had been in, there had been a vessel containing such near the entrance.) He said, "Oh, we don't do that, that's a Catholic thing!" His comment made me feel like an idiot, and that was the extent of his welcome. I took a seat for a few minutes, but after being unnoticed by all the entering congregants, I panicked, fled, and raced back down the street to Church A. Their service started 30 minutes later, and at least there I was visible!
Church C: Church of the Numerous
I haven't yet had the courage to make it to Church C. Here's why: According to its website it's one of the largest congregations in the diocese, boasting 6 weekly services, 3 (three!) choirs, 4 clergy, 2 organist/choirmasters, 8 other employees, 4 pages of downloadable maps for visitor's convenience, and a partridge in a pear tree! I guess without the maps a new-comer might risk wandering lost on the 8 acres in search of a restroom, requiring the intervention of Search and Rescue teams. They also have Madrigal dinners...I have no idea what these actually are, but the photos show smiling folks in renaissance costume. Anyway, for an introverted girl with self-confidence issues from a VERY small town I'll probably stay home and succumb to the televangelists before I got up the nerve to try and find a parking spot at this place!
I'm hoping that this bumpy journey of mine may provide some useful insights for those of you who might beinterested in attracting and retaining new members. Here are my humble suggestions for Radical Hospitality:
1. First impressions are important. Many prospective members will check out a church's website to acquire information before even visiting the church. Please make sure it is simple, but appealing, and expresses what you intend. Most importantly, make sure it is up-to-date regarding service times, the church calendar, and activities. I'm embarrassed to say that Church A's website was outdated and inaccurate when I first attended 6 months ago and has yet to be updated.
2. Have a number of folks, a committee even, to identify and personally welcome visitors. This need not be overly-complicated. Make conversation, be gently inquisitive (without seeming intrusive) about the circumstances bringing them to your church on that day. Have something like a simple little gift bag to give out, maybe including a scented candle, a booklet describing simply the history of the church, our faith, and our beliefs. Definitely include a card they can fill out with their personal information and return in the collection plate if they would like someone to contact them. Make sure someone is designated to follow up! Offer a specific contact person & phone number to field any questions that might arise. Maybe offer to assign a mentor/sponsor-type person, not just to answer questions, but to let the newcomer know about upcoming activities they might be interested in. Personally invite them to a concert outing or to help at the church supper. Newcomers can be shy, or tentative...I certainly was.
3. After the service, invite them to stay for coffee. Aggressively! Don't take maybe for an answer! Then escort them back personally and keep them company/captive, and introduce them around. Don't let them get cornered by the hard-of-hearing older member who will torture them with bombastic tirades regarding church politics! And beware of the special interest sub-groups aggressively promoting their own limited/exclusive agenda: they can be off-putting in their enthusiasm and inquisitiveness.
4. If/when they return, greet them again, and tell them you're glad they came back. If they miss a week, tell them you missed them and that you're glad to see them again.
5. Don't assume they know about or understand concepts or symbolism that may seem familiar to you. They might be of an entirely different faith, or of no particular faith, seeking knowledge and information. Explain things if you're not sure they understand.
(I remember my first advent season at the church where I was welcomed after decades away from church, my faith, and the bible. The priest had set up what she called "Jesse's Tree" in the back of the church, and had handed out ornaments representing individual members of Jesus' family: we were to go up and place them on the tree. I had no idea what she was talking about, but never shy about brandishing my ignorance, I said to her, "Did Jesse bring in the tree?", referring to a member of our congregation named Jesse. She laughed and without making me feel like a complete idiot, recounted the story of the Jesse tree to me. So, if someone, new or otherwise, asks a question, please answer it without sounding superior and making them feel dumb. People do not feel welcome in a place where people make them feel stupid for trying to learn. They will leave and not come back.)
6. In general, make all inquiries feel welcome. I asked and continue to ask about the vestry and their function for instance, or what the process is for finding a new rector.
7. Invite newcomers to meetings (vestry, committee), group work days, social functions, bible study, outreach activities etc. I would have loved to have been invited to such to get an idea of how church structure functions.
8. And Please, Please, if they offer to volunteer say unequivocally and enthusiastically, "Yes, we'd love your help!" as opposed to vaguely murmuring "Well, we've kinda got that handled." Embrace their efforts and offers to serve, and consider it your gift and obligation to them to make them feel important and needed.
(Some folks seem to be rather territorial about their duties, or maybe just unaccustomed to having extra help. And this is my experience with churches and other social groups: Often a great deal of the work is done by a relatively few number of individuals who are functioning on autopilot. Often these individuals complain about doing all the work, but are the most reluctant to accept help when it is offered. I've heard such people actually say, "It's more trouble to train someone than to just do it myself."
At our church suppers some people complain when there are too many volunteers, in my case, I happen to be single, unemployed, new to the area, and empty-nesting: I'm very eager/a little desperate to be more involved in church activities as a way to serve God and build connections with people. At the church I attend now I find I am haranguing people on a regular basis in an effort to get them to let me help, to be involved. I beg folks, some of them repeatedly, including one of our visiting priests, the office folks, the cooking folks, 3 or 4 members of the vestry, and the outreach ministry lady, pleading for some way to be useful. I should not have to be imploring people to include me, to accept my service.) |
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 Find The Caucus on Facebook
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Use this form to join the EWC, renew your membership, or make a donation. Make check out to EWC and mail to: Episcopal Women's Caucus, 413 Buffware Court, Charleston, SC, 29492-8212.
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