Dear Calvary,
It’s Elder and Deacon nomination time again. If you are a member, you should be receiving an email from me today or tomorrow. I can tell you that the elders have been considering the recommendations from the diagnostic report last Fall and Ron Shigematsu, our elder chair, gave a brief update in our Sunday service a few weeks ago. Here’s an overview of what he said…
- We will be using the Summits to re/evaluate or re/affirm our values, mission, and vision in preparation for calling a permanent Lead Pastor.
- The eldership team is shifting to a more spiritual leadership role that will include training for the nominating committee, an application process for those nominated, an intentional onboarding process for incoming elders that will include initial training, as well as some governance updates that will ensure high freedom as well as high accountability for the lead pastor.
- Related to the above, the elders are considering a separate operational/financial advisory committee of between 3-5 men and women who have experience/gifting in accounting, HR, and/or business operations who will provide input on finances and operations so that the elders can be more focused on spiritual oversight of the congregation.
- The elders are reviewing eldership terms in an effort to improve continuity of leadership.
- And as I have mentioned previously, we are seeking to improve communication between the elders, deacons, staff, and congregation.
Finally, there is also ongoing work on bylaws updates, that will be rolled out at the annual meeting on June 2nd for our members to consider and vote on at a later date. Most church bylaws should be reviewed and updated on a regular basis. The overall goal is better communication all the way around, increased focus on spiritual leadership and spiritual formation and discipleship for all who call Calvary their home church.
I hope to see you on Sunday!
Pastor Gregg