Getting to Know One Another
One of the great privileges of serving as a pastor is getting to know the people who make up the congregation—not simply learning names, but hearing something of their lives, their faith, and the experiences that have shaped them.
During September, I intend to call each member of New Journey. These will not be fundraising calls, membership checks, or formal interviews. I simply want an opportunity to become better acquainted with you and to listen.
I plan to ask two primary questions:
What would you like me to know about you and your journey of faith?
What do you most value about New Journey, and what hope do you have for its future?
There are no expected or “right” answers. You may share as much or as little as you wish. Our conversation may also lead somewhere entirely different—and that is perfectly fine. Good conversations often do!
As your Interim Pastor, I believe it is important to listen before reaching conclusions about what a congregation needs or where it may be called to grow. New Journey’s story is not found only in reports, records, or its Ministry Site Profile. Its story lives in each of you.
I know that calling every member will take some time, and I may not reach everyone on my first attempt. If you see a call from the church cell number, 480-761-9005, or my cell number 413-636-4656 it may be me hoping to say hello. If I leave a message, please feel free to return my call when it is convenient for you. You are also welcome to contact me if you would prefer to arrange a particular time for us to talk.
Our conversations do not need to be long, although I have learned that good stories sometimes have their own sense of time! My purpose is simply to listen, learn, and begin building the relationships that will help us faithfully journey together.
I look forward to speaking with you.
Yours in Christ,
Pastor Phil
