Historically, tasks were divided between the clergy and lay members instead of the two coming together as partners in making disciples of Jesus Christ.   As partners, we work together and, with the help of God’s spirit, the “whole becomes greater than the sum of its parts.”  As partners, we can support and draw energy from each other.  As your lay leader, I am excited that here at the UMC of Monroe, we are partners.  We are a “team”.   The team approach is essential in forming a motivating and vital vision for the ministry of our congregation and performing the work of the Gospel. 

Teams are not without their challenges, but different viewpoints are necessary and crucial to bringing in new methods and new ideas.   One person cannot plan the course, make the decisions, call the “shots” and carry the load.  In working with the various teams in our congregation, I have found we listen to one another as we take on some of those challenges.  When each partner is respectful of the other and willing to take their share of the responsibility, good things can and do happen.

We have had several successful events (Service Auction, Art Auction, Harvest Festival, Potluck lunch, weekly coffee hours, Kings Pantry, Monroe pantry, Souper Bowl, Blankets, Mozambique and more).  These events are the result of team efforts.  What makes them successful is the fellowship we feel and/or the satisfaction in filling a community need.   These are necessary ingredients to reaching our full potential.

As partners, teaming up to do God’s work, we cannot sit and wait for answers!  We can be creative.   We can take some risks.  We can dream!  Let us step forward in faith, together and make disciples.

Rose Aiello