Dear Clergy and Congregational Leaders,
Happy Thanksgiving. We give thanks for your courage to move our ministry forward in the face of the challenges of the last year. We are blessed to serve with you.
The following are the essential actions and information for this week.
1. Shared Ministry Extension – Lead Pastors, Finance Chairs and Treasurers
Shared ministries and all billable payments are due on December 30, 2020 to meet all GNJ obligations. Recognizing that congregations finishing the end of the year and receiving offerings right up to December 31 makes it hard for some congregations to send final shared ministry and billable payments, there is a grace period until January 12, 2021 for those who need additional time to process end of the year gifts. The latest to submit payments is January 12, 2021. Thank you for your commitment to our connection at this time. Everything you need can be found here.
2. Monthly Survey – Lead Pastors
The monthly survey is open until November 30. Click here to complete the survey. We are grateful for the 422 congregations that completed last month’s survey. On average, pastors indicate it take approximately five minutes. We are concerned about the 42 congregations that did not complete the survey. All congregations are to complete the survey because the cabinet learns a great deal and can target specific follow up. To view results from last month’s survey and see how our ministry together is changing, click here.
3. New Superintendent and Resource Director – Everyone
Bishop Schol invites input from clergy and laity as the cabinet considers the appointment of a superintendent to serve the Gateway South District and the hiring of a resource director to serve in the Central Region. The resource director will work with 20 churches to develop and carry out A Journey of Hope and assist in developing resources to be used by congregations. Please email Soomin Lee by this Monday, November 30 with the names of people you believe will serve well and why they should be considered.
4. Leadership Nominations – Everyone
GNJ has always been served by fruitful leaders. The Nominations Committee is inviting clergy and laity who are ready and able to take the next step in leadership to submit their names for consideration to serve on an agency or committee of the conference. If you, or someone you know, is in a position to share their gifts and talents, please submit their names using the nominations form on these pages. The deadline to submit nominations is November 30.
Thank you for your ministry. You are a blessing to GNJ and your community.
In Christ,
GNJ Leadership
Quick links to items in this email:
Shared Ministry
Survey
Last Month’s Survey
Email Soomin Lee to nominate a Superintendent or Resource Director
Nominations