I have long been of the opinion that juggling is one skill for ministry that ought to be a required class. That way pastors would at least have an experience which would relate to ministry in the local church! The fall is always particularly hectic--at times chaotic.

One of the balls we are juggling is the space problem on Sunday morning. The Building Needs Assessment Committee (BNAC) has been meeting over the last two months and the extent of the problem is becoming all too clear. The Sunday School is now using all the available space with some classes in quarters which are too ramped. The parking lot is so crowded that some people are turning around and going back home because they cannot find a parking place. The Contemporary Service is pushing the capacity of the Social Hall on a regular basis. No one has enough storage space. The narthex is confusing and intimidating between services.

May I ask these two things of you?

    1. Park on the grass whenever possible.

    2. Don’t come early for 11:00 service.

(I’ll bet you never thought you’d hear a pastor tell you that!) One of the big problems appears to be between 10:45 and 11:05. So take your time getting to church and we’ll probably start service a little late. (Some of you will point out that I won’t have any difficulty doing that!)

Another ball we’re juggling is the financial stewardship program. Our campaign this fall is done through the mail which can give it less visibility and make it seem less important. Nothing could be farther from the truth. We face some financial challenges right now. We need a church van to facilitate programs for all ages; we need to expand our parking lot NOW even before we address the other building problems; we need to respond to some special mission askings.

I ask you to make a financial commitment TODAY. Commitment cards are on the table at the back of the sanctuary or you can simply send Judy Garrett our Financial Secretary a note indicating your level of giving. We cannot continue in ministry without your active involvement. The programs, people, purposes which you enjoy and from which you benefit require your support.

One final ball we’re juggling concerns finding volunteers for various programs and offices. We are at the point in our congregation’s growth where the need for programs and activities has never been greater but the level of volunteers is not growing at the same pace. We need YOU to volunteer your time and talents. The same group of folks cannot cover all the new ideas and needs.

Would you pray about where you can become involved or more involved in our congregation? Watch the newsletter and bulletin for ideas and needs. Offer your services to the Nominating Committee (Judy Ganley and Anne Roessler are chairpersons) or Joe or me. Overwhelm us with your response!