Comments on: Taking Our Next Steps

By: Mike

Mike — Fri, 14 Mar 2008 06:58:31 +0000

Excellent summary of the business meeting, Aj! I appreciate being able to read your thoughts here.

I too went away with a really good feeling about it. It was long, but at the same time it seemed like it was cut short…there was so much more to say and hear. But I suppose this is the beauty of it—the conversations and momentum and listening to the Spirit have just started!

One thing I really appreciate that came from the Next Steps people was the focus on how we can all be a healthier “us”, rather than on personal preferences, and how can we get things more like “I” would like them. There really is a fine balance going on. There’s a respect for our heritage and traditions AND a longing for new life and fruit that is incredibly exciting to me!

By: Denise

Denise — Thu, 13 Mar 2008 02:02:47 +0000

In my idealistic little mind, I’d like to think that there can be some sort of a balance between the small groups and the larger cohesive community. The small groups are critical; it is there that we share, laugh, weep, know each other closely, and encourage each other as we strive to follow Christ together. The large group is wonderful…it is there that we rejoice together, learn together, listen together…worship together. I would hate to lose either of these venues. The thought of what could happen corporately in-between the two worship services, with more time to BE with each other, it pretty exciting…

Just random leakings from my brain….and my heart…

By: Robin M.

Robin M. — Wed, 12 Mar 2008 15:50:51 +0000

I’ll just say that, from afar, I’m impressed. I will hold you all in the Light.

By: Gregg Koskela

Gregg Koskela — Tue, 11 Mar 2008 20:48:18 +0000

I’m so glad to read this from you! Thanks for your work and ministry and blog and friendship.

By: Abbie

Abbie — Tue, 11 Mar 2008 19:14:19 +0000

Ish. I’m TOTALLY going to have to sit on this one before I respond. I have too many mumbly jumbly things going on inside my head, and not sure how I should respond. I promise, I’ll be back to give my little ‘ol me input.

By: Michelle

Michelle — Tue, 11 Mar 2008 18:19:44 +0000

I really want to respond to this in a deep, meaningful way. But I find myself so filled with conflicting thoughts and emotions that it’s hard for me to discern just what God wants me to share and what things are really of value only to myself. I’m definitely more of an action oriented person. Too much thought on anything without taking action or at least having a plan for taking practical logistical steps makes me as you say, “antsy and cranky.” But in a process such as this, I have to agree that there is no simple “fix” and to just say, ok, now we’ll have 2 services and potluck each Sunday and things will be “all better” is just ridiculous. I love the idea of the six week fast. I can’t wait to have children joining us in service-for so many reasons (I’ll have to blog about this later). I think NFC is an extremely loving, faithful, searching, patient, joyful, friendly, welcoming body of believers. But I have to realize that I’m looking through the eyes of someone who has been here for 9 years and has made an effort to involve myself in the various ministries this church has to offer. What does our church look like to a first time Sunday morning worshipper? What does it feel like to those who aren’t able-bodied or introverted? How do I reach out and really share myself with these people? One other thought-trust me I got lots more… is that as I think about having a large church membership constantly trying to engage in community by Sunday School classes, small groups, WBF, etc… I also worry about us breaking into little sub-groups that have very little to do with us as a cohesive larger group. I don’t even know about groups like Agape or Children of the Light-and yet I’m deeply entrenched in WBF culture. Is this a good thing or a bad thing? I hear God calling us to be ONE body- and sometimes I worry that our desire to be known or to participate in so many different ministries actually pulls us apart into little sub-groups rather that one group known as NFC.