Such Great Heights

As I have read the plogs and Jeanne’s and Sally Ray’s comments (thanks, btw), I am thinking that perhaps outreach/FIA could be thought of as threefold:  far away (ex. Mitikira), nearby (ex. Woodville) and on-site ( ex: Eyes on Richmond, Jazz Lunches, Art Exhibits, Concerts). 
Folks commented that we should stay focused and not divide our efforts, but what does that really mean?  I think we need to consider all three locations for outreach or we are missing important areas of focus…...something that would appeal to different parishioners and therefore give more opportunities for serving God.  I believe our commitment must be focused but the opportunities must be broad.

Well said Lin and Jeanne.  I did share with Kimberly Allen, when she came on board, that we had many talented parishioners that had served on the Arts Board in the past and would be valuable resources for promoting the arts in our parish hall.  Thank you, Lin, for wanting to continue this valuable ministry.  You, and your many talents, have always been an asset to St. Paul’s.  You can count me in on supporting your efforts

I am always delighted when we extend ourselves to assist others and enjoy hearing about the trips to Africa and work at Woodville school.  My concern is that it is so easy to be inspired by the big projects that we forget the other opportunities for outreach that are right under our noses.  One of those is the art exhibits that we host.
For years I have coordinated the displays of artwork in Scott Hall, our Parish hall.  It is easy to overlook this as a form of faith in action, but it most certainly is.  We invite artists to share their work with us.  We also invite them to visit and worship with us.  We provide this as a service to our community, which in turn blesses us.  My wish is that our vestry recognize this service as a gift to both the community and our parish.  We are blessed to have a such a nice facility to share in this very personal and creative manner.
Last year, I became a bit discouraged and did not schedule many exhibits.  Now, I would like to look at this wonderful opportunity we have in a new light.  Adrien Luxmore and I will be working on a plan to better manage this outreach effort and would welcome comments and suggestions from parishioners in order to better serve all concerned.