We, Us, Our

I love feeling a part of something bigger than myself– being a part of something that both shapes me as a person and allows me to shape it in return.  

I’ve recruited many staff and volunteers in various roles over the years. My hope is always that every person comes to have a sense of ownership, so that it is our thing, not them helping me with my thing. It’s stronger, healthier and more sustainable that way– and biblical.

Ownership is a journey. At the beginning people use words like “your” or “you” or “they” and “their” – such as “your church”, “your plan”, “your ministry”, or “you should [insert here]”. It's like they are spectators looking in from the sidelines. That’s normal. But slowly, over time, they will start to use different language, like “our church”, “our ministry”, or “we should [insert here]”, or “we need to…”. They're no longer specators but participants and stakeholders.

What words do you use? How do you perceive your place in the church family? Do you feel free and safe to give input?

This is important as we come to our AGM this Sunday to make decisions as a church whānau regarding what we (all) do with our resources and how we will (all) contribute to the growth and care of the people in our church, and what we (all) will do to sustain our community financially. 

Since our proposed plan and budget to the church was delivered a couple of weeks ago, I personally am now reflecting on my part to play in it, as a church member. How I will seek to grow as a disciple of Jesus personally, how I will help others do the same, how I will grow in generosity, and my care, and in prayer, and in faithful stewardship.

I hope we all do that too. See you Sunday. 

Adam