Reflections
~ by the Pastor and guest writers ~

What Should We Expect of Church Members?
(January 28, 2003)
That’s the title and content of a newsletter article a friend of mine in Virginia shared with me who pastors a Presbyterian church. He also mentioned a book he had found with a title that was most intriguing. In his book, Rocking the Church Membership Boat: Counting Members or Having Members Who Count, Jan G. Linn urges a redefinition of church membership that is long past due, because “church membership has lost its biblical bearings and has instead become a good neighbor to the dominant culture…” (p.1).

My friend’s article and Jan Linn’s book get at the heart of what is going on in our churches of today that live in a consumer-oriented culture. Some believe the church is here to promote a service for individuals and families—not to help people discover their gifts and provide a place for them to exercise those gifts.

In a consumer-oriented culture such as ours, some people choose a church based on what the church can provide them, rather than asking, "How could I serve God in this church?"

Attending church should be a life-changing experience of confession, being with other Christians, praise, prayer, and hearing God’s Word for us.

What are the responsibilities of membership? Here are some possibilities to think about:

To make weekly worship a priority among all our activities.
To tithe and support the church financially.
To pursue spiritual growth through Bible study, prayer and
other spiritual disciplines.
To discover, develop, and exercise one’s God-given gifts and
talents in the life of the church.
To discover a “calling” in your Monday-Friday job.
To tap your source of peace and happiness on a regular basis.
To invite friends, neighbors, and family members to church.
To share your faith with others, tell them what God has done
for you.
To serve on a committee to help make the church run.
To participate in small groups to get to know your sisters
and brothers in Christ better.

So, I challenge you now to reappraise your membership. Are we focusing on counting members, or members who count?

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“Annual Meeting of Our Congregation”
(January 9, 2003)
It’s that time again in the life of First Presbyterian Church. Each year we hold an annual meeting of our congregation and this year our Session has approved an evening meeting in concert with a fellowship meal.

The meeting will be held on Sunday, January 19, 2003 at 6:00 pm in the fellowship hall.

The purpose of this meeting is to hear reports of the Session and plans for the coming year. This is your opportunity as an active member to come and learn more about our programs and activities.
We want and need every member to attend this meeting because it is your opportunity to learn more and ask questions.This is not Super Bowl Sunday and as far as I know there are no other major events that are scheduled. Set aside this time to come and enjoy a good meal and fellowship with others. Our Session plans on maximum attendance and it will not be the same without you! See you there!

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First Presbyterian Church
McAllen, Texas
104 S. 12th Street
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