As part of the New England Synod's community listening campaign, congregations throughout New England have been asked to plan a "Doing What Matters" Sunday May 13.

At St. James Lutheran Church, Barrington, R.I., preparations are well underway. Bulletin inserts have been printed in advance, and email messages and Facebook posts will be sent out shortly. "Our plan is to have the community surveys -- plus pens and pencils -- in the pews before the congregation arrives for worship," says Kim Bergstrand, a lay leader at St. James. After a brief introduction, members will be asked to take a quick look at the questions before worship begins. The congregation will be encouraged to record their answers during quieter portions of the service, as well as after the blessing. Completed surveys will be collected as people leave the sanctuary.

"Our hope is that through liturgy, music, Scripture and Pr. Andrew Simon's message, the Spirit will open our minds and hearts to recognize what abundant gifts God has given our congregation and community," Bergstrand explains. "Then we can figure out where love is leading and calling us to serve."

From all accounts, the people of St. James are excited about the opportunity to look through the survey responses before bringing them to synod assembly in June. "It will give us another chance to see what we're doing about mission and outreach in our own community," Bergstrand adds. "We also are looking forward to seeing where God is calling all of us, as the New England Synod, to focus our assets, passions and resources in the years to come."

It's not too late to plan a "Doing What Matters" Sunday at your church. All of the resources you need are on the synod website -- including worship suggestions and readings. Plan one for sometime in May -- or even the first weekend in June -- and the completed surveys will be carried by your voting members directly to the synod assembly.