April, 2008
There are so MANY exciting things happening at RUCC, it’s hard to decide what to do! Bible study? Lenten series? Hot button scriptures? Contemplative service? 10:30 service? Choir? Handbells? Prayer group? Yard sale? Art show? Retreat? Board meeting? Et cetera, et cetera, et cetera (please read using your best Yul Brynner voice from The King and I).
One of the reasons RUCC offers so many opportunities is to meet the diverse needs of our church family and community. When people start to express a need, or others perceive a need, our congregation and staff are quick to address it. We have a bias for action and would rather try it and see what happens rather than wait for someday. There’s a great song by singer-songwriter Tom Chapin (brother of Harry Chapin) called “A Study’s About to Begin.” It starts with a politician telling their constituents that of course, something is being done. In fact, a study is about to begin. In the last verse, his wife asks him to mow the lawn because it’s up to her knees. He responds by saying he’s already working on it … that a study’s about to begin!
There’s nothing wrong with surveys and studies. They definitely have their place! But they shouldn’t take up all our energy and keep us from getting the real work done. And that’s a place where RUCC really shines.
The other reason for so many varied offerings is that people take the initiative. This is a church full of people who are willing to roll up their own sleeves and get started. They don’t stand on the sidelines and shout instructions; they jump right in and just do it (I hope I don’t have to pay a royalty fee to Nike to use that phrase!). Many organizations complain that 20% of the people do 80% of the work. At RUCC, more than any other group I’ve been a part of, the work is spread out among a large percentage of people.
So, how do YOU decide what to do? Perhaps you can do it all. Perhaps you need to choose one activity per week that speaks to your heart. Perhaps you’ll be a leader, a follower, a cheerleader, an organizer, a collaborator, or any role that fits your personality and fills a need in the church, the community and your soul. Whatever it is, you are welcome to be it, to do it, and to be loved through it here at Redlands United Church of Christ.
With optimism and hope,
Loring Fiske-Phillips
President
