After Roger Schlief opened with devotions and prayer, the Elders and Deacons met in districts to discuss needs, to schedule visits and to pray. When we reconvened, the staff led a discussion on incorporating small groups into our ministry plan.

There are many reasons for which we are excited about having more small groups. People have had good experiences in the past and are excited that there are a lot of people who are willing to work throughout this coming summer to make it all happen.

We do see some obstacles that will need to be overcome.

1. How to handle childcare so that families with young children can be involved.
2. How to help people make the commitment to small groups.
3. How to help groups be compatible with each other.
4. Where do we find materials from?
5. Where do we find leaders?
6. How do we help people know when and how to get involved in small groups?

Just as mountains were made to be climbed, obstacles were made to be overcome. So in what ways can we do that?

1. We can star groups with just 2 or 3 individuals and/or couples.
2. We need to have short-term groups so that people who are not ready for a longer commitment can be involved.
3. We’ll need a coordinator who will work with the Small Group Ministry Team in order to keep things moving.
4. To help groups be compatible, we need to be willing to experiment, especially with the short-term groups. It’s awfully difficult to determine ahead of time what will draw a group together.
5. Where will we find the leaders? We’ll keep our eyes and mouths open: eyes to see the gifts at work, mouths that are ready to ask.
6. COMMUNICATION!

• Use testimonies to help people see the benefits.
• Have a central place for information (like a bulletin board).
• Personal invitation will work the best.

Jason reports that there continues to be great stuff happening upstairs, with new kids coming and lots of personal needs being met. They do need new leaders. We’re very thankful to add Brian Van Zee and Jennie Warner to the group, but Troy Payment is having to step down for a while. He will be missed (and should be temporarily replaced).

After some discussion, it was decided to change the start of our worship time to 9:30 am during the summer. This continues to be a decision that generates quite a bit of discussion and little agreement. The 9:30 am start will be in effect beginning on Memorial Day (May 30) and ending on Labor Day (September 5).

We currently have 3 people confirmed for nomination as Elder (we look for four nominees for each office every year), but only 1 for Deacon. Several people expressed disappointment in the number of declines that we have received. It’s not always clear why we have more declines some years than others, nor even why some people do decline. We’d like to see people look at serving on the Council as an opportunity and a joy, but we have some work to do to get there.

There were 13 people who attended our recent New Member’s luncheon on the theology of the Christian Reformed Church and another 12 who have expressed interest in becoming members. That’s great news! We will have another gathering on May 16 so speaks specifically to the expectations that we have of our members. This gathering is open to all and expected for all who want to become members. If you are interested in attending, please talk to Pastor Cal, as there will be a light lunch served. By the way, thanks to the Olson small group for doing such a great job of hosting (on short notice!) this recent luncheon!

While we haven’t received many commitments to help with the cost of the KBEK radio ministry, the Deacons feel that we will able to pay our portion for another year of broadcast. Speaking of giving, PLEASE get your budget pledges in soon so that the Deacons can make an accurate budget for next year.

Jason reported that Ignite took a slightly different approach in their last series of meetings (on relationships) took a slightly different approach that allowed the leaders to address an uncomfortable topic in a less intimidating manner. There will be a couple of weeks of a short series, then a couple of weeks tied up with Baccalaureate services then a bonfire to wrap up the ministry year.

That’s going to have to do it for now. The meeting was done by 9:30. My battery is almost done and your attention is probably shot. If you want a copy of the minutes for more details, feel free to ask Bonnie!