Recently I attended our son-in-law's ordination service in another conference. Needless to say, I really didn't know any one there. And I couldn't help but think it was like attending someone else's family reunion. But I assumed it was pretty much like our conference with long-standing friendships, intrigues, dysfunction, and all.
For about one third of our pastors, this past Sunday was the first for them and their families. And I wondered, what kind of welcome they received. Then, as usual, when I point a finger, the other three fingers point back to me. How welcoming have I been?
This year we have a new DS and a returning bishop with their families. So please join me and welcome your DS and bishop's spouses. Take a moment and sent a card, note, or email. As hard as it can be to walk into a new church, it must be more difficult to walk into a new conference and district. If we welcome each other, perhaps we all will more fully experience the benefits of being a church family.
Kathy
I heard somewhere recently about a pastor who asked a non-churchgoing friend why she didn't go. She said "it's like going to someone else's family reunion. why would I go?"
ReplyDeleteSomething to think about when we celebrate the "family atmosphere" or "close-knit" nature of our congregations. Those things aren't so good if you're new to the congregation or visiting for the first time.
Good point, Jessica. Being too "folksy" can seem clique-ish instead of being sincere or being respectful enough to allow newcomers to worship without forcing our habits onto them. I think a worship service should have a certain amount of solemnity and restfulness so we can listen to God and replenish the soul. Fellowship is a part of Christian living, but my personal belief is that worship and fellowship are not one and the same. Comments from others???
ReplyDeleteNona