President’s Perspective | July 2023

Welcome to the first President's Perspective! In an effort to increase and improve communication between the congregation council and congregation, I was encouraged to write a letter in our monthly Enews letter on a periodic basis. In these "President's Perspective" you can expect to read council news and vision updates, and how I am experiencing the God at work in our community and in our council meetings.

Your congregational council is comprised of seven (7) different personalities with seven (7) different perspectives. As President, I feel strongly about making certain that everyone’s perspectives are heard and have value to any and all discussions of church business.

Each month we meet with a stated agenda. Discussions can be routine but can also be very lively. So far this year, we have had several such discussions. Your Council members shows great respect for one other and have built a trust among ourselves. With that trust, everyone shares their perspectives on a particular item of discussion before final decisions are made.

Listening to each other and actually hearing someone else’s perspective, brings about a better outcome for our church family. We have been tested with many discussions about our church business, and we do not always agree. When this happens, we stop and take a step back to really listen to each perspective and to listen for God. Sometimes, we sit in silence and breathe when it is unclear how to proceed and other times Pastor Beth leads us through prayer. It’s in those moments that I feel the presence of God show up for us as leaders called to serve on council. God really is leading us through our conversations. From my perspective, being honest and open with each other is healthy. It shows an unwavering commitment by your council members as to how much they care about the life and mission work of New Journey Lutheran Church.

I would encourage church members to reach out to the Council to show support, share any questions or concerns or offer ideas on something you feel passionate about for our congregation. We as one body in Christ will give it proper attention and consideration as we endeavor to foster mutual understanding.

Your servant in Christ,

Cindi Brady

Congregational Council President