This past Monday, St James hosted the Conference “Quadrennial Training Time.” A time for all the leaders, staff members, and committee members of our Annual Conference to come together and learn about the life and vision of our Conference. We talked about connection and alignment as being the central task of our leadership within the conference and how we can be agents for that work.
You probably should have been told before I came to St James that I LOVE being at the kind of church that hosts events like that. I LOVE being a place of hospitality and energy within our connection. It is extremely fortunate that you all are such a welcoming and hospitable congregation. I am so very grateful for the whole team of people who seem to catch all that falls through the cracks as I blithely go about accepting requests. I would run out of space if I were to name everyone who helps to make the events of St. James a success.
The two things I heard over and over again on Monday were: “thank you for hosting, I know it is more work than it looks” and second “this is such an active church. You have so much going on here.” It is work to be welcoming to our community, both the local community and the Conference community. You all step into that role so graciously, fixing the coffee, setting the tables, bringing the meals, guiding the visitors, and so very much more. Thank you. Thank for being a congregation that welcomes the stranger and visitor. Thank you for your Spirit of hospitality and care.
Likewise, this is a busy congregation. We are involved in so very many places. Last Sunday’s Ministry Fair showcased all the places we are following Christ, loving others and changing the world. I hope you have looked through the Program Guide and hope you traveled through looking at all the opportunities to learn, grow, and serve here at St James. This is an active congregation and I LOVE it.
Thank you for being a welcoming congregation. Thank you for indulging your pastor’s tendency to volunteer for you to do work. Thank you for creating so many places for so many people to work and worship. Thank you for being St James.
Pastor Tom.
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