The Shepherd Plan

The Constitution of our Church says, “It is the duty of elders, individually and jointly, to strengthen and nurture the faith and life of the congregation committed to their charge…should encourage the people in the worship and service of God, equip and renew them for their tasks with the church and for the mission in the world, visit and comfort and care for the people, with special attention to the poor, the sick, the lonely, and those who are oppressed…should inform the pastor and session of those persons and structures which may need special attention.”

These responsibilities become a challenge and privilege for me.  You will be one of my “flock.”  Here is what I hope I shall be able to do as your shepherd.

• Remember you in prayer  
• Be more than just an acquaintance—a caring friend  
• Keep in meaningful contact with you, by visit or phone  
• Be a source of information to you from the Session, and perhaps more importantly a source of communication from you to the Session  
• Be available to you in times of illness, crisis in your home  
• By being a regular participant in the church’s worship, nurture and service, thus able to introduce you to others in our church family

Every relationship has at least two parties.  If I am able to accomplish the above, you can help me!

• Remember me and my family in your prayer  
• Keep me informed of any important happenings in your life we can celebrate—birthdays, anniversaries, birth of new children (grandchildren too!) milestones, accomplishments and achievements we want to hear about   
• Attend as many of the areas of the church’s life as possible  
• Alert me to any of your needs, or needs of others as you observe them