Moshe feels it's time to call a Minister

Our Interim Moderator is convinced that we at St Mark's must go forth in faith and call a Minister. 

Hi there People of St Marks,

I am writing this in haste as I am just about to return to KZN.

I have as yet to be in a ministry situation where money, or the apparent lack of it is not a major challenge.

My only comfort is that our Lord's disciples thought and acted like we often do. They were men not too different from us, who wondered how they could possibly meet the needs of the huge crowds. They were genuinely concerned about the welfare of the crowds and were realistic in their assement of the situation. They knew where they were, they knew this was a remote place, it was the wrong time of day and they could not do much because it was getting late.

The disciples suggested that He send the crowd to villages to buy food. His reply was that they hand over the "problem" to Him. You know the rest of the story.

If I may encourage you all. St Mark's is in a stronger financial situation than say St Giles and a few congregations that I happen to be aware of.

The other day I was going through Rick Warrens book. Those of you wo have read it may I remind you what Rick says on finances and ministry

The most heated debate in a finance driven church is always over the budget. While good stewardship and cash flow are essensial for a healthy church, finances must never be the controlling issue. The greater issue should be what God wants the church to do. Churches do not exist to make a profit. The bottom line in any church should not be, " How much did we save, but rather who was saved"

I honestly believe that the Lord wants St Mark's to be a beacon of hope. In some ways that is where we already are. I can see a time when all of us - Presbytery and Church Growth Committee of General Assembly - can cite St Mark's as a good example of effective ministry in the Inner City. For that to happen we will have to take some unprecedented steps, going forward in faith. I therefore  argue passionately that we are ready to call in minister.

Shalom

Moshe

NOTE: Moshe presented to Session and steps have been taken in this direction.