Highrock MetroWest’s Ministry of the People
Most of you know by now two things:
1) Highrock faces a challenge akin to a financial Perfect Storm. Pastor Dave has provided a detailed account of the circumstances in his message, which can be accessed here. For an understanding of the outcomes stemming from this situation, please review the information available under the “What Are We Doing Now” tab. If you haven’t had the opportunity to read Pastor Dave’s notice, I encourage you to do so to stay informed.
2) Pastor Dave and the Board of Councilors asked me to take on a strong role in the financial management of Highrock as we navigate these stormy waters to a better place. While I am experienced in these matters, my usual practice involves assembling a proficient lay financial team to provide advice and guidance within church organizations. I’ve initiated this process by bringing on board Rob Hull from MetroWest to bolster our capabilities in this regard. I also join a capable staff team that includes Drew Hunter, Katie Vogele-Bongiovanni, and Emilyn Wang; and the accounting firm of CapinCrouse.
I am currently in my first week in this new role, and I’d like to share some initial reflections. First, I want to emphasize that I am still an integral part of the pastoral staff at Highrock MetroWest. I have a deep affection for the staff and the wonderful people of MetroWest, and I’m truly delighted by the way we’re witnessing God’s transformative presence among us. While I continue to play a central role in convening and leading our staff, it’s important to note that our team thrives on collaboration, and the collective wisdom we harness is a testament to our reliance on the Lord’s guidance. Highrock has indeed enriched MetroWest with a formidable and united team.
Second, this is a pivotal moment for our congregation as we transition from first gear to second gear. I stand as just one example of how the Highrock staff is embracing increased responsibilities, and there are now numerous opportunities for volunteer leaders to engage in meaningful activities alongside us. Collaborative ministry experiences not only nourish our spiritual growth but also shift the focus from a staff-driven approach to one powered by the collective efforts of our community—a transformation that benefits us all. I encourage you to view this as an opportunity to come together and strengthen our ministry of God’s love, and remember that your offerings of time and money multiply what we can do as God’s people. The staff will work with Highrock MetroWest’s Congregational Leadership Team to identify roles we can all play to involve more people in leadership and service. Watch for these opportunities, tailored for busy people, soon.
We will move through this time with grace, but there may be some pain involved for our church as Pastor Dave noted. Lori and I are all in. I know I speak for the MetroWest staff and leaders as well. Combining our offerings of time and resources, we’ll see this through to a better place! And the church as an organization will be better as well. We will learn from this experience, improve our systems and communications, and achieve more visibility into the workings of Highrock. And, we’ll include more and more people in leadership and ministry.
Thank you and blessings, Pastor George.
Photo by krakenimages on Unsplash
