Preparing for the Future

Our congregation is ready for its next chapter—and has already begun to write it.

We are aware that some pastors may have concerns about coming to a congregation that has enjoyed a long, stable pastorate—that the new pastor may be forced to walk in the former pastor’s shoes.  There is nothing to fear at FPC!  Aware that we would require some updating, our session has hit the ground running and initiated an amazing adventure in transformation and preparation.

Under the leadership of our accomplished Interim Pastor, Reverend Bob Sheldon, our Session has examined, discussed and revised every aspect of our church life.  This work is best summarized in the nearly-completed Session Ministry Handbook, which includes:

• New Session Covenant, outlining how Session works together and through its committees
• Updated Job Descriptions for all Session Committees
• New Guidelines for Mission Efforts
• New Guidelines for Worship
• New Personnel Policies and Procedures
• New Policies Related to the Safety of Children and Youth
• Updated Staff Position Descriptions to reflect adjustments in staff responsibilities
• New Facilities Use Policies
• New Facilities Plan for Future Improvements
• New Financial Policies and Procedures
• New Gift Acceptance Policies
• Session has even planned and will lead this fall’s Annual Stewardship Campaign!

The Session also performed a comprehensive analysis of our office operations and has made the following improvements:

• New Computer System, including a new server, new computers with dual monitors and ergonomic keyboards, Windows Seven software, and two Netbooks and wireless internet throughout the facility to ease note-taking in meetings
• New Automated Church Systems software, which tracks our people, groups, calendars, contributions and financial information
• New Internet Protocol (IP) Phone System throughout our facility, including email access to voicemail
• New cellular phone plan for staff use, including a Pastor’s IPhone with complete member contact information—even GPS to find them!