by the Rev. Charlie Dupree
In her book, The Art of Gathering: How We Meet and Why It Matters, Priya Parker says its always important to tell people why you’re gathering. Is it to celebrate? Is it to offer updates? Do you gather to be social, or have some type of important conversation. It’s important to be clear, she says, and not assume that everyone is “in the know.” Clarifying your reasons for gathering also helps to create a sense of purpose and focus.
On Sunday, February 4, St. Paul’s will gather for it’s Annual Parish Gathering/Meeting. Why do we gather? In short, because the rules of the Episcopal Church call for every community to gather at least once a year. At our gathering on Sunday, we’ll do a number of things, which are outlined in the agenda below:
- 11:30 Welcome and Opening Prayer
- 11:35 Remarks from Parliamentarian
- 11:40 Vestry Slate Presentation and Vote
- 11:50 Strategic Reorientation Update
- 12:05 Endowment Report
- 12:15 Annual Giving Campaign Update
- 12:20 2023 Financial Update and 2024 Budget Presentation
- 12:35 Adjourn
We will gather to attend some important pieces of business, but our reason for gathering as the church is always the same: to give thanks to God. We will gather to celebrate our blessings. We will gather to appreciate the gift of community and the opportunities to serve God’s people in ways both simple and powerful. We will gather to be with each other and remind ourselves of the unique role that the church plays in our lives.
We will gather to be the church in this time. and in this place, and to ask for God’s continued guidance as we seek to be holders and sharers of God’s love.
11. For the Parish (p. 817, BCP)
Almighty and everliving God, ruler of all things in heaven
and earth, hear our prayers for this parish family. Strengthen
the faithful, arouse the careless, and restore the penitent.
Grant us all things necessary for our common life, and bring
us all to be of one heart and mind within your holy Church;
through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen
See you in church,
Charlie + (he/him)