Thursday, February 01, 2007

Third Congregational Meeting Constitution Proposal

I was asked to write a post about the meeting we had on Sunday night. As in the previous meetings, some members voiced concerns, some confusion, some displeasure and some support. Our Elders took the opportunity to individually state why they supported the proposal.

The objective of this meeting was to get past the questions regarding the changes in voting privileges. Our Elders have heard loudly and clearly the questions, objections and concerns and are seriously looking for ways to address this part of the proposed changes.

Some other questions were raised, that although not part of the agenda for the evening, caught our attention. The issues are important and we will try to assure the congregation that those questions will be addressed in the very near future.

This kind of process can be a tenuous proposition. Having a different perspective on an issue does not necessarily have to mean dissension or division. Our constitution, and more importantly our Bible, tells us how to disagree with each other, how to address those disagreements and how to remain true to the spirit of the law in finding a compromise so as to continue walking in harmony.

Now comes the really hard part. Our Elders must discuss, integrate and formulate a proposal that will challenge our congregation to take the next step forward. When dealing with a large group of people it is certain that not everyone will be completely satisfied. It is our prayer that God will give us insight, illumination and wisdom in the coming days.

Please remember to salt your words with love. Remember you don't have to agree, just disagree in a humble and civil manner.

8 Comments:

  • Just a quick question...

    If the process plays out a lot longer than expected, are the elders going to continue to wait on choosing additional deacons until after the vote? I think it would be advantageous to establish our group of deacons sooner than later. Is it a consideration at this point?

    td

    By Anonymous Anonymous, at 3:43 PM  

  • Good question. We intend to work on this area in short order. We needed to get these meetings under our belt as they would help us to determine how quickly to move from this point forward.

    As mentioned at the meeting, due to some unforeseen circumstances we are running 6 months behind but catching up quickly.

    Thanks for your input.

    By Blogger jawbone, at 4:15 PM  

  • Just a point to consider for everyone that is waiting for new deacons to be appointed...

    The biblical definition of a deacon is a servant. I would love to see people begin to step up and serve, not because they have the title of "deacon," but because they have the heart of a servant.

    ctf

    By Anonymous Anonymous, at 7:43 PM  

  • Good point CTF, but your statement is based on an assumption. In this church, a potential deacon is not considered unless he/she has proven to be functioning in a servant capacity already. I think the people of this church have a better understanding of this subject than you give them credit for.

    td

    By Anonymous Anonymous, at 7:59 AM  

  • After this third meeting, it is very evident to me that there are much more urgent needs of the congregation that need to be addressed instead of changing the "wording" of our constitution that, quite frankly, has been working just fine for us. Let's appoint new deacons asap, let's address the personal needs and concerns of the congregants, and let's try to determine why people are leaving. Let's go about doing the Lord's work again. Aren't these much more important than revising the church constitution?
    PTL!

    By Anonymous Anonymous, at 2:04 PM  

  • I am probably niave. But, I trust my leaders to know what is best for the church. If I have no faith / trust in them, they why would I want to attend?

    By Anonymous Anonymous, at 1:58 PM  

  • Is there any update as to how we are going to proceed? More meetings, revisions, etc..?

    Dustin

    By Anonymous Anonymous, at 3:07 PM  

  • To Newbie;

    remmember that many godly leaders have fallin. By having safegaurds in place, both the leadership and the poeple are protected.

    we have all sinned and falling short of the glory of god.

    we do have unconditional faith and trust in our Lord Jesus Christ.

    Attend CHC because the leadership and the people are united in following our Lord Jesus Christ according to the Holy Scriptures.

    By Anonymous Anonymous, at 5:59 PM  

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