This is a summary of my conversation today with Robert McElfatrick. He is very interested in mission work.. He has a son-in-law who is involved with an orphanage in Brazil. Robert, himself, has done overseas medical mission work in the past. Even if he is no longer able to participate directly in mission work, he is willing to sponsor, mentor or otherwise be supportive. He has a heart for families and is interested in mentoring in life skills, such as parenting, budgeting, communication, etc within and outside the congregation. He thinks the older generations have wisdom to share with the younger generations. He likes the idea of helping on a one to one basis someone in the community who needs someone to walk alongside them as they work to improve their economic status.
Discipleship/Servant Team
Am reading about listening in congregation. The author suggests that listening is a critical skill in small groups. She discusses the model lIke ours where a lay leader provides oversight for a few small groups By meeting regularly with the leader of the assigned group. Our sitúation is that nobody wants to take leadership in our group.
This is a quote from her book which I find valuable, “According to my interviewees, what makes a group successful is that the members are able to talk honestly about their faith and their lives in the presence of people who genuinely listen. Nancy Ammerman’s research echoes the perspective of my interviewees. Small groups in congregations provide a significant place for people to grow in their ability to figure out and articulate the intersection of their faith and their everyday lives.”
That's interesting that you should write about listening. The Servant Team offered training for PALS leaders back on March 4, 2023 and the subject was listening. This was supposed to be the first of several 'training' sessions for PALS leaders. Turns out it was the only training that occurred as the Servant Team never initiated another session. I can't remember exactly but only 2-3 PALS leaders attended that Saturday.
SigI is in FL with her brother. They are making decisions about family property there. Frank will be on a business trip when we meet next time and says he is good with whatever we decide as a group. I called Kristen while she was in a meeting and am waiting for her return call. Will try to connect with others today.
This is weird. I've posted (thought I'd posted) a couple of times but neither comment/post I made is available now...
Well, your comment about 'no comment' worked.! Try again...
A reminder to all, be sure to save your comment by pressing the "Publish" button.
Thanks Bev, for letting everyone know about your conversation with Robert. I wholeheartedly agree with him -- there is so much latent wisdom in our congregation that if we can find a way to tap into it, how much more 'engaged' our members would be. When we talk about what gifts God has given to us to use to impact His kingdom, I can't help but think of our members who have their life experiences to share AND how God has been by their side always.