Pastor's Pen January 11, 2013

     During the past year Council has worked diligently in its futuring efforts. Some of us attended the Church Vitality Roadshow ledby Jim Oates who is the Ohio Conference Church development/CongregationalRenewal Coach at Ohio Conference UCC. The purpose of the event was to help us think about what we need to do to have a vital ministry here at Zion UCC. When we got to know Jim we found that he is a very personable and encouraging Pastor who has had years of experience and expertise working church vitality. We have extended an invitation to Reverend Oates to visit Zion later this month so that we might join in a mentoring relationship. We are looking forward to him getting to know us and the uniqueness of our situation so that together we might develop ways to not only keep Zion’s presence in Steubenville but to also create a ministry with impact in the community.

    You have a very important role to play in this endeavor. All of you are needed. You are essential. I am asking that each one of us take this very seriously and that you make a commitment to remember Zion UCC and her future in your daily prayer time. Ask the Holy Spirit to kindle wisdom and courage in each of the leaders of this church so that we can embrace with open minds and hearts the teaching and new ways of thinking that Jim will offer to us.

As we move together into the futurewith the guidance of the Holy Spirit.....

Pastor Carol