In early 2022, as the world was emerging from the COVID pandemic, NLUC embarked on a “visioning process” to consider the future of our “church on the hill”. COVID had been a bit of a game changer for the world generally, and for NLUC it had involved closure of the facility, interruption of a diverse range of activities and supports, changes in the approach to worship and other norms – and isolation from other congregants. Recovery was gradual and, while many returned to worship and other activities, some did not, and those familiar faces and friendships have been missed.
But this period of recovery has, in a sense, also provided an opportunity for a new beginning, and that has been the focus of the Visioning process. Since March 2022, it has involved a series of 8 workshops (most recently last month), attended by folks who are interested in participating in the creative process of considering where and how North Lonsdale fits into God’s world in this new era. Participation has varied, but overall, the process involved some 50 congregants and benefited from their ideas, vision, expertise – and prayers. We’ve divided the process into 7 focus areas:
With God as the foundation, and an energetic and visionary new minister at the helm, good things are starting to happen. Visioning will be an ongoing process, with meetings held periodically in the church. All are welcome and invited to participate. If you think you might be interested in getting involved – or would like some more information – please contract the church office or speak to Rev. Sam directly. Or, just mention it to someone during the fellowship time after church. You’ll be surprised at how many folks are involved!