I will encourage colleague clergy and laity to trust so that success can be shared in good faith or received without feeling put down or be able to admit need for help. This needs to be a long-term commitment if it is to work. Challenge us to creativity. The bishop, superintendents and staff should meet with key lay leaders in the churches and talk about the apportionment issues. Pastors feel lonely on this issue.
Key leaders can move congregations.
Disciple, Walk to Emmaus, Women Growing Spiritually, Bible Study, Circles, Meditative Prayer, Covenant Discipleship, Advent and Lenten Study. Where faith formation is intentional, not just hoped for because the group is held in a church building. Any learning activity for any age group that meets on a regular and consistent basis. Monthly pastoral letter from bishop to pastors for mutual support-then pastors to communities. Pray for it until we believe it.