Inspired by the enthusiasm demonstrated by clergy and delegates during Diocesan Convention, a new Re-Imagining Advisory Team is already building upon last year’s recommendations. In February, team members met with Bishop Robinson, who charged them to invite and encourage people to become involved, to organize and provide, and to create an environment for things to happen in and around the Diocese.
The Outreach group will sponsor the "Taste and See" event held at Trinity Church, Meredith, March 19, and a similar gathering is planned by the Evangelism group. An Outreach Ministry Fair is scheduled for May 14.
A Structure subgroup will focus on facilitating connectedness and de-centralization, examining innovations in other dioceses. Because information gathering and resource sharing are key elements in the next phase of re-imagining, the team is exploring the use of regional coordinators and regional gatherings.
One task undertaken by the team was developing an application form for funding requests, and setting parameters and guidelines for grants. The 2005 diocesan budget allocated monies previously granted to committee to the Re-Imagining Team, to be distributed through each of the three primary mission focus areas.
Members of the team are: The Rev. Bill Exner (Outreach), The Rev. Susan Garrity (Evangelism), The Rev. Janet Lombardo (Regional Coordinator), Dave Young (Structure), Kirk Kirkhuff (Chaplain), Margaret Porter (Convener), and The Rev. Canon Tim Rich (Staff Liaison). At press time, leaders for Ministries for Youth/Ministries for Young Adults had not yet been appointed.
All those who signed up to participate in this phase of Re-Imagining during Convention can expect to be contacted, and more are welcome! The team invites your ideas, opinions, and prayers. Information and updates will be posted in the Re-Imagining area of the diocesan website, www.nhepiscopal.org, and via d-Mail announcements.
