James 1:17 ‘Every generous act of giving, with every perfect gift, is from above, coming down from the Father of lights … ( NRSV)
In the past year, behind the scenes, I have constantly witnessed the skills and talents of many of St. John’s parishioners. In meetings behind closed doors, one-on-one meetings, in church events, at worship, and in outreach in the community, I have seen St.John’s generosity and gifts. I am so grateful for these encounters and interactions. My heart is particularly warmed by the efforts of the stewardship team and the parish care team.
As I mentioned in my sermon, having coached soccer for years, I have witnessed that teamwork makes the difference in what needs to be accomplished. If there is no teamwork, then that will result in no goals scored. My responsibility at St. John’s is serving as clergy liaison in five areas: parish care team, outreach, stewardship, adult formation, and EYC. In my last eNews, I highlighted the good work happening in outreach. This time, I want to give a shout out to the Stewardship and the Parish Care Team.
My role in these teams is to be a pastor and spiritual connector of what the teams are trying to do, to see a theological and pastoral connection to our work. Often teams want me to pray and gently I will say we can all pray. Prayer is for all of us and something we can all do. That is what I call team’s spirit. Literally all of us are gifted with the Holy Spirit at our baptism and confirmation.
The 2024 Faith In Action Annual Campaign is entering its last quarter. We thank you for your generosity in these past three quarters. I am also proud to announce that our pledge amount for three quarters is just about on target. It is encouraging to see the consistency of giving in the parish. People are faithfully giving what they pledged they would. The stewardship team took it upon themselves to be on the offensive on the deficit. With Smart Habits in May and this month’s silent auction and concert by Adult Supervision and One Man Band, we have made a significant dent in the budget. It is encouraging to see the efforts and hard work of this team. Please encourage your people to come to this event- neighbors, friends, and family. If one person can invite one person, we will have a packed crowd for this event.
We also celebrate the service of Parish Care Team Leader, Katharine (Kitty) Kovacs, who has led this team for three years. She has worked tirelessly to minister and serve our parishioners. This past month it was her last time leading and chairing this team. She has helped me to connect with parishioners and also organized so many parish care talks on helpful, relevant topics from addiction and suicide to cybersecurity. She has been a pillar of strength in supporting parishioners in challenging times, transporting others, and just nurturing relationships generally. Our parish care meeting has been a source of support and inspiration for my adjustment at St. John’s. Kitty has an institutional history and long-term relationships with people. It was a pleasure to work with her. I am beyond grateful for Kitty and the parish care team who have helped St. John’s to be a place of connection and caring for all. Suzi Hetzel will be our new team leader going forward. St. John’s I am excited to be doing ministry alongside everyone here!
Teamwork is often not about the team’s skills as much as it is about the team’s spirit