Two weeks ago, I attended a Zoom meeting for Church Council presidents in the New England Synod with Bishop Hazelwood. The Synod Council has begun to hold discussions about the future of ministries in our Synod. Mr. Bill Parchen (St. Matthew, Avon, CT) and Pr. Erica Kennedy (Trinity, Chelmsford, MA) are moving forward in supporting churches to connect and learn from one another. It was decided to begin with a Zoom meeting with the Council Presidents. The purpose of this evening was to have a “conversation around the future of the church,” to connect with one another, learn some best practices, and share resources. As you can imagine, I considered this a meeting not to be missed. Approximately 100 council presidents attended.
Bishop Hazelwood spoke about the importance of Councils making decisions based on the unique characteristics of each church. He mentioned the value of providing opportunities to engage, make connections, and serve our church members and community in safe ways. A significant amount of time was spent in small breakout rooms. We discussed our experiences over the last year as well as, our struggles, successes, and concerns as we shift to warmer weather, vaccinations, celebration of life services, youth programming, and community outreach ministries. Many council presidents spoke about both successes and failures in how their churches are able to access the Internet, use technology, and find individuals with the skills necessary to support churches’ increased online presence.
A significant number of service offerings were discussed ranging from shared recorded services between churches to in-person services that began at the end of last year. The methods that members stayed connected within congregations seemed to be more challenging based on the small variety of opportunities mentioned. I explained our different service formats, music, ongoing ministries, and faith formation initiatives available to parishioners for use in their homes. When I speak to people outside of Holy Trinity, I share my gratitude for the creativity, capabilities, and commitment of Pastor, Mark D, musicians/singers, ministry leaders, and the numerous congregational members who have supported ideas and initiatives that continue to sustain us as a Church and strengthened our community.
Lent is an opportunity to weed out habits or distractions, allowing time and space for reflection, service, everyday prayer, meditation, journaling, movement, etc. I initially yearn for my usual activities, but soon I find this shift brings a renewed reminder of balance and intention. What I then find challenging is maintaining this practice or commitment for longer than the days of Lent.