Even though it’s been years since anyone in my household went to school, September and the beginning of school always seems like the beginning of a new year. Congregations certainly follow the school year model. Advent 1 begins our liturgical year and January 1 begins the calendar year but don’t we all know that the real new year begins in September—as soon after Labor Day as possible. We have a special Sunday--called variously Homecoming, Rally Day, etc – and then the new year is off and running.
As of September 1, NNECA is off and running. We have great plans for this “new year.” In July The NNECA Board adopted four goals that will guide our efforts in the year ahead. These goals are
1. Financial stability
2. Clarity of purpose— with defined goals & objectives
3. Expansion of membership
4. Improved communications.
Financial Stability. We are working on this goal in a variety of ways. In the past Leaven was one important source of income. Rising prices have meant that Leaven subscriptions no longer cover the cost of publication and mailing. For this reason and in order to be sensitive to the environment the information previously conveyed by Leaven will be found either in Leaven FAAST or, as an article posted on the NNECA website. Our new treasurer, Mike Link, will lead the Board in a variety of other strategies.
Clarity of Purpose. It has been a number of years since NNECA has gone though a visioning process. This year one day of the annual January Meeting will be devoted to an in-depth look at our purpose. This meeting, which is held in New York City, includes meetings with Church Center and Church Pension Fund leaders. An outside consultant will guide us through a process of examining how NNECA can best meet the needs of clergy today as well as prepare for the future.
Expansion of Membership. Currently the website provides helpful resources for those wanting to start a local association. This year the Board will have a special emphasis on supporting local associations as well as helping new ones to develop. NNECA 40 will be a major conference open to all clergy. The Board hopes this event will demonstrate the value of NNECA to a wide audience.
Improved Communications. Electronic communication is the foundation of 21st century communication. Our new website is good but continues to be a work in progress. We are continuing to work on quick, readable email messages, an easily accessible website and thoughtful resources that really do help. ChurchPost is the vehicle we use to get messages to NNECA members quickly. But, ChurchPost only works when we have email addresses. We need you help with this. If you have not already registered, please do so. The NNECA website is a quick and easy way to get on our email list.
NNECA 40, our fortieth annual conference, will be the culmination of our work for the coming year. We are delighted to announce that speakers will include Dr. Diana Butler Bass and The Rt. Rev Dr. Nathan D. Baxter, Bishop of Central Pennsylvania. The conference name “Building Bridges” highlights both the location, Pittsburgh—the city of bridges—and NNECA’s slogan-The Clergy Connection. Information about cost and other speakers and workshops will be posted on the website in the fall.
The months ahead are going to be busy and exciting. Both the NNECA website and Leaven FASST will keep you posted on NNECA news. You can also use our website as a way to communicate with others, ask your questions and also to let us know your concerns. Both compliments and criticisms are valued so I hope to be hearing from many of you.
Happy New Year!
The Rev. Molly Dale Smith, President-Elect |
