Broadening the vision, keeping the focus

I have a confession: I am a church communicator.

 

I don’t mean that in a way that describes my chosen profession, it is something that God put in my heart. It is my God-calling.

 

Coming to work for UMR as the digital community builder has felt like the next step in my journey as a church communicator. Now I am sharing United Methodist news from across the globe, helping other churches reach out to their congregations and communities. I have realized that my vision as a church communicator must broaden to encompass the Methodist Church as a whole not just my local community and congregation.

 

To be honest, I am frightened by this realization.

 

While on staff at my local church (a shout out to First United Methodist Church Plano!), I always said that I was a church member before I was a staff member. I based my decisions on this mindset with asking the question “Would I, as a church member, be happy with this decision?”. Now more than ever, I realize, I must keep the same mantra.

 

I need to broaden my vision but still keep my focus…on the church…as in the people…but most of all on Christ.

 

In reading the 2010 State of the Church Report and the two recently released studies on vital churches and church relevancy, it is interesting how the United Methodist Church is having to broaden its vision as well.

 

And yes, for many people in the church, this is frightening.

 

Being out of our comfort zones is not easy. Leaving people and a place I loved and worked for 10 years has brought that reality very close to home for me. But in that fear I have learned more about myself, I have met some wonderful people at UMR and ones that I know will become good friends. And I have also learned more about not only my own weaknesses but also my own strengths.

 

I feel we could say the same about being United Methodist right now. We have to think about becoming relevant for the future and on new ways to reach more people. Maybe that means different worship styles or different music. Maybe it is looking at how to help the community. Maybe that is way outside of our comfort zone.

 

My hope is that the United Methodist Church still keeps its focus on being on not only what John Wesley envisioned for the church but also what Christ wanted for his church.

 

And in that my hope is that we, as United Methodists, are reminded of our strengths.

Comments

[Missy Buchanan]

You have stepped into big shoes but you are wearing them oh-so well! Congratulations on your new position and for being courageous enough to "step out" in faith.!

[Chris Shafer]

Nicely done, Liz. I could hear you saying those words in your own sing-song voice. (I felt that I was hearing you face-to-face).

Chris

[Kevin]

Having read the Operational Assessment it is safe to say that UMC has some serious problems. Leadership disconnected from membership, lack of accountability, autonomous boards and agencies that muddle the already unclear mission of the UMC. Our leaders should read this as an indictment.