I'm Back and our Vital Church Initiative Activities Are Ramping Up

I returned to serve at Brighton First on Sunday, August 16, after an extended honeymoon. During my first week back in the church office, I sorted through and responded to many emails and letters. I also had the opportunity to meet with some of our Vital Church Initiative leaders and to read through reports of progress. In upcoming articles on this blog, I will summarize activities and programs that are being introduced at Brighton First.

What am I doing in relationship to the Vital Church Initiative at Brighton First?

• I continue to work with clergy coach, Naomi Garcia. We had a coaching session last week, where we discuss how I might strengthen my leadership skills with staff and the Staff-Parish Relations Committee (The personnel committee of our church). 
• I also continue to read leadership books and to discuss them with clergy and staff. Our church staff is currently studying the book Managing Transitions: Making the Most of Change. I am also reading the classic 7 Habits of Highly Effective People and a resource for the September sermon series, Growing Up Social: Raising Relational Kids in a Screen-Driven World.
• Concerning my personal spiritual disciplines, I have added morning Bible reading and prayer with my husband, George. Together, we are also reading Great Prayers of the Old Testament, by Walter Brueggemann.
• This week, I will attend the United Methodist Michigan Area School for Pastoral Ministry. The keynote speaker is Bobette Buster, a professional writer, who will teach about crafting stories.

I ask for your prayers as I continue to hone my leadership skills by the grace of God and for leadership at Brighton First.