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Usually these reflections start with a quote from
scripture, a hymn, the Book of Common Prayer, or a
famous religious figure. But it just seemed
appropriate to use the chorus of the 1958 hit by
The Jamies. Yes, just a few more weeks and summer
is officially here. Most of us, though, kick into
the summer mode unofficially Memorial Day weekend.
Regardless, we are into that time of longer days
and increased recreation that also usually brings
a decrease in church activity. What a great time
to take on a new ministry!!!!
No, the heat hasn’t gotten to me. Often, we tend
to be more creative as well as casual in the
warmer weather. Creative and casual. That is a
good formula for exploring some new ministries
that might not be considered when we are not into
a summer mode. One of the things that injects
vitality into a well-established congregation is
small, loosely-organized, casual ministries. Those
kinds of ministries often reach members of the
parish, or people who are not members of Christ
Church or even any church, in a way that more
formal ministries wouldn’t.
Think creative and casual and we get beyond the
building and the calendar and share Christ
wherever we may be and at any time of day. Think
about all we read of Jesus in the Bible and it is
clear that he did not work on much of a schedule,
nor did he have a building and an established
congregation. He went around meeting people where
they were and touching their lives whenever he
could; essentially every waking moment. When we
are asked within The Baptismal Covenant “Will you
proclaim by word and example the Good News of God
in Christ?” there also are no limits of time and
place stated.
The Catechism (Book of Common Prayer page 855)
gives some further idea as to ministry:
What is the ministry of the laity?
The ministry of lay persons is to
represent Christ and his Church; to bear witness
to him wherever they may be: and, according to the
gifts given them, to carry on Christ's work of
reconciliation in the world; and to take their
place in the life, worship, and governance of the
church.
What is the duty of all Christians?
The duty of all Christians is to
follow Christ; to come together week by week for
corporate worship; and to work, pray, and give for
the spread of the kingdom of God.
That is some pretty
broad guidance for ministry; “to represent Christ
and his Church” and “to bear witness to him
wherever they may be.” So that means chatting
about Christ working in your life with a neighbor
over iced tea on the patio would be ministry.
Perhaps gathering with a few friends in the
evening to share what is happening in your lives,
read some scripture, and sing some spiritual songs
would be a good summer ministry for you. While
fishing, speaking of God’s provision and our
responsibility to steward that abundance would be
a nice summer witness.
Rather than just having the usual group of friends
over for a barbecue, consider inviting at least
one person, or one couple, who are new to or not
very involved in the parish too. When you get
together, offer a heartfelt grace over the meal.
Consider inviting your friends to join you for
Compline or less structured evening prayers. How
about taking a picnic lunch to a small group at
one of the local managed care facilities or to a
member of Christ Church who is homebound. Pray
with them. Sing some songs with them. Volunteer
with Vacation Bible School.
See. It is that easy. Whatever feels right and
spiritually uplifting for you, is probably what
you are intended to be doing. Let us know how it
goes. |
