A message from Jennifer Jow
“Plans fail for lack of counsel, but with many advisers they succeed.” (Proverbs 15:22).
During the last week of September, Bishop Susan Brown Snook held listening sessions across the diocese to understand, learn and gain insight from the parishioners. She held the same listening session during the clergy retreat too. Each member of the pre-planning work group (PPWG) identified a session they were going to attend and help out as a greeter.
I attended the one at St Andrews in La Mesa which had about 57 attendees. Consultant Susan Czolgosz was the facilitator and kicked off the session with an ice breaker question which you discussed within your table group. I observed good conversations along with high energy as people didn’t want the discussion to end when time was called.
Next, four questions were teed up and you were to write down as many comments on post it notes and attach them on the wall under the proper headings. The overall data (from each session) will be read and compiled by consultant Susan and her findings will presented at the Nov 8-9 convention. The last item on the agenda allowed time for people to step forward and voice whatever was on their mind to the bishop. I was amazed to witness how honest and truthful people were when expressing their feelings, not being afraid or dance around subjects (concern, hurts, didn’t matter good and the bad).
Also, several weeks ago an electronic survey was sent out to each church and mission with questions regarding their demographics along with two important feedback questions which can only be ascertained by the clergy and their wardens. The value of this data is crucial because it will help our PPWG understand the current state prior to developing and mapping out an effective and relevant strategic plan.
Please keep our committee in your prayers by providing us strength and wisdom while on this journey as we do Gods will. As for the committee members to remember to “Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and do not rely on your own understanding; think about Him in all your ways, and He will guide you on the right paths”. (Proverbs 3:5-6).
Respectfully,
Jennifer Jow
Co-Chair Pre-Planning Work Group
