What’s Up with Pastor Tod 9-24-21

What’s Up with Pastor Todd 9-24-21

This past Sunday First Church and South Church had our first in person sharing service. The service began with a prelude from Rick Handville and Chris Lavigne, a welcome from Deacon Chris Saunders, children’s moment with Sarah Pradhan, Scripture reading, and a Scripture reflection by Rev. Denny Moon. We sang “We Are Dreaming,” a song written by Rev. Moon based on our theme for the fall season, “Dreaming Together.” We shared a time of prayer. Then we divided into 8 mixed groups of First Church and South Church people, who responded to the question, “What difference might we make together, if we take seriously that God IS in this place, that is greater than what we could do separately?” After twenty minutes we regathered in the worship space to hear what the groups had talked about. 

Here is what I heard. “What could we do together that we couldn’t do apart?”

• We will have more options, opportunities, and greater effectiveness as a church. We will be able to offer stronger programs that are more appealing to families.
• We will model convergence in a world that’s diverging.
• Larger music program.
• Flip the question: “What could we not do better together?” More people will mean a greater diversity of views, which could lead to conflict. Nevertheless, conflict is not necessarily a bad thing. More divergent views can contribute to better decision making.
• We will provide a moral compass for the town by ensuring that there is a UCC presence in Granby in the future.
• We will have a greater amount of energy.
• An encouragement to dwell not on what we’re losing, rather, we can focus on what we’re gaining.
• Conflict is not necessarily a bad thing. Otherwise, we’re in an echo chamber.

These are a sample of the comments based on the notes I took at the meeting. Overall it was a positive experience. We did have a Zoom option for those who didn’t feel comfortable gathering in person; however, no one used it. I’m grateful for everyone who worked so hard to make this complex event successful. Great work, team!