Whether you are new to St. Michael or a long-time member, you may not know very much about our Mutual Ministry Committee.  In fact, we have been called by some the “stealth committee”.  This is the bad news, but also the good news.  The bad news because we serve an important function and so it is important to have an understanding of what we do so we can be of service.  The good news because we value and we cherish confidentiality in all our efforts.

The Constitutional underpinning for the Mutual Ministry Committee is found in section 3.04 of our By-Laws, and reads as follows:

There shall be a Mutual Ministry Committee whose purpose shall be to support the Staff members and serve as an intermediary between Staff members and the Congregation.

In the midst of our busy world and the day to day demands on the Pastor and Staff, it is essential that we carve out time for what Luther called a “mutual conversation and consolation among Christians”.  Our Lutheran understanding of the Church sees ministry as being shared by all people of God—a ministry with and to one another.  The Committee seeks to strengthen the ministries of the Pastor, Lay Professionals and Congregation by focusing on supporting and building this mutual ministry within a trusting and confidential environment.  Our goals include:

• Facilitating open communication about the expectations, attitudes, concerns and needs within the Congregation

• Providing a “listening post” for the Pastor, Staff and the Congregation, with sensitivity to early warnings of misunderstandings within the Congregation

• Providing a “sounding board” for the Pastor and Staff in times of personal or professional stress

• Encouraging and helping to identify continuing education opportunities

• Providing consistent concern for the spiritual, emotional and personal needs of the Pastor and Staff, seeking ways to support each

Please do not hesitate to engage any one of our committee to ask questions and/or share insights that will benefit our shared ministry. We look forward to serving with you, supporting the Pastor and Staff, and building and growing St. Michael!