Two Congregations… or One Congregation?

[off...@resurrectionumc.org]

Dear Friends,

 

It is hard to believe that we have been in worship and ministry with our brothers and sisters of Calvary for only three months.  As with so many things in life, the sale of the building has taken far longer than anyone every dreamed was possible.  We owe the Trustees, led by Ron Cromartie, a huge debt of gratitude for their tireless efforts in bringing that to a close.  At this point we expect to close on the sale of the property on April 30.  I also want to thank Carol Hall and Nicolle Mynhier for their leadership during the move and Ron for his efforts in setting up the phone system and the computers. 

 

Our worship these last few months has been a special blend of practices that are treasured by each congregation.  I especially like circling the sanctuary hand-in-hand after the peace as we join together in the Lord’s Prayer.  Likewise we have been working together with the community around us through the monthly Community Meal as well as the ongoing support of the women of Freedom House. Yet though our worship and ministry are becoming more fully integrated, our administrative structures remain separate.  It has become apparent that this separation is not only cumbersome but also counterproductive.  Part of the impetus for selling the building was to enable us to devote our financial resources toward ministry rather than to “bricks and mortar”.  Similarly, the time and talent of our members could be much more effective in ministry if we eliminate the duplication of efforts required by separate administrative structures. 

 

In view of this, the Administrative Council is recommending that Resurrection begin to work toward a merger with Calvary to form a single congregation.  Such a merger would have to be approved by each congregation in separate Church Conferences.  That decision would be followed by a period of discernment and conversation to mold the new congregation.  The process is likely to take several months.  To begin the discussion, there will be a town hall meeting of Resurrection immediately following worship on Sunday, April 28.  Please plan to attend if you have questions or if you want to share your thoughts about such a merger.

 

In Christ’s Service,

Jane Millen

RUMC Council Chair