The idea of a merger with First Lutheran has the congregation buzzing. It’s going to be an interesting discussion, to say the least. There are obvious pros and cons, and I think we need to thoughtfully consider all of them.
I heard someone say Sunday: “Small isn’t necessarily bad.” That’s for sure. As a matter of fact some of the things we love about Elim relate to our closeness, the intensity of our relationships, the warm friendly atmosphere, and our interdependency – all part of our smallness. There have been times in our history when we were much smaller. Many years that we operated without a full time pastor. But, ultimately we have to have the “Critical Mass” of membership in order to continue to have a meaningful impact on our community.
Do we have the heart to keep our congregation viable?
I’m not sure, but I look forward to hearing your ideas about it.
Gary
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The meeting of the congregation on February 25 was most interesting. We had a great turnout and a thorough airing of nearly everyone’s opinions and feelings. The consensus was that we will continue the discussion on March 18 with the intent of clarifying any remaining questions, and voting on the question of whether to explore further the idea of combining operations, or to decline the opportunity and focus our energy on growing Elim.
Comment by Gary Lorenz February 27, 2007 @ 12:33 amYour wonderings and reflections are beautiful, Gary…a window to your soul I would say; and a glimpse of what we love most at Elim and hope to share with others, that they too might know Christ’s love and peace through us. One day soonish this blogging place will become a part of my routine. Thank you for all you’ve done in developing and continually improving this website. And thank you for your patience with the rest of us in making it a part of our daily (or even weekly) living. Grace and peace to you.
Comment by Pastor Liz March 18, 2007 @ 12:44 amPastor Liz
Well, the merger talks have passed into Elim history. The congregation voted it down in no uncertain terms. We’ve moved on now, to strengthen Elim and to look for ways that we can work together with First Lutheran in our ministry to the community.
Comment by Gary Lorenz August 21, 2007 @ 12:44 amhmm interesting site. Are you trying to be with my beautiful routine Wanna good joke? What did the robot have to do before she wore any earrings? She had to get her gears pierced.
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