Dear First Pres,

   On January 22 we’ll have our Annual Congregational Meeting between two abbreviated worship services (8:30 Service; 9:30 Meeting; 11:15 Service). I know, I know, some of you have already lost interest. But, if you’re still reading, please hear me out on why I think you should attend.

   First, it’s going to be encouraging. We’re planning to share and celebrate the ways that God is working in and through our congregation. I am confident that these testimonies are going to make your heart smile.

   Second, it’s going to be interesting. We’ll be presenting the broad view of the Session’s budget for 2017 and the changes it represents. We’ll give an update on the important work of our Vision Team. And I’ll be sharing some hopes that I have for us in this year ahead.

   Third, it’s going to be important. Our main business item will be to elect our church officers. The Nominating Committee has been working hard to discern the Lord’s will for our upcoming class of Elders, Deacons, and Nominating Committee members. By God’s grace, they are ready to present the slate to the congregation for vote. These are the leaders who guide the vision and ministry of our congregation. This is important business for our church. Plus, we’ll elect our corporate officers as required for all incorporated not-for-profit organizations.

   Finally, it’s going to be significant. One of the things I’ve learned over the brief four years that I’ve been your Senior Pastor is that it is very difficult in the regular flow of the congregation’s year to find space for a corporate conversation about how we’re doing and where we’re going. In my opinion, a well-organized annual meeting can be a very significant moment in the life of the congregation to catalyze ourselves around our common vision.

   All are welcome to come to the meeting. When it comes to electing our officers, only Active Members are allowed to vote. I hope you will make it a priority to be part of this encouraging, interesting, important and significant meeting. It starts at 9:30 a.m. on January 22 in the Sanctuary.

Blessings,