Lama's log

Gosh yesterday was arduous. I think the discussion on the word 'good' was a particular high point. I guess though that the significant bits were around the Home Mission discussions. The financial presentation showed how the denomination had missed its giving target and the worries about this were highlighted. The BU reserves are set to dry up in 5 years at current projections.

We listened to this and took note. It was interesting then when the issue stipends came up. Especially with regard to home mission. The rise in salary will not match inflation. It is rather in line with other public sector workers. There was outrage and a a very tense moment when people clearly wanted to speak but were not allowed due to procedure and protocol.

For me it was interesting that the outrage did not arrive earlier. We are not going to be able to pay Home Mission ministers more if we don't work hard at giving more. My experience is though that many of our churches are not really engaged in Home Mission in any real way. Out of sight out of mind. We are not aware enough of our structures and of what Home Mission does unless we get to the point of need.

If that outrage in the room turns into working towards increased giving then it will not have been wasted but we do need to take some responsibility for the fact that some ministers work in near poverty. It was also worth noting how desperate the housing situation is for ministers retiring without equity. Basically if you have a manse through your working career then you are homeless at the end of it. Poverty then at both ends.

I hope the passion from the meeting translates into more advocacy for Home Mission.