Speaker: Donald E. Skinner, editor of InterConnections

InterConnections is a newsletter distributed Boards, Ministers, and DREs of all congregations. Donald Skinner, the InterConnections editor, outlined four subjects that cause ongoing problems or crises in churches: raising money, recruiting volunteers, caring, and integrating newcomers. With help from the audience, he explored these four topics.

Raising money
When raising money, remember: your job is simply to ask, the other person's job is to respond. Personal contact is important, but consider doing this separately so as to get acquainted without the pressure of money. Following these contacts, a third contact is essential to say thank you. Training in the techniques of listening is important. Consider reaching out to non-members who have children in RE and ask, "Are you ready to increase your commitment to the church?"

Recruiting volunteers
Avoid doing business on Sunday mornings. Instead, pay attention to visitors and new members. Look out for a member who may be a good volunteer coordinator. For some people, this may be their dream job. If you find such a person, you will be far ahead. Watch for volunteers in danger of burnout and intervene before it is too late. Prepare written job descriptions. Update your congregational-skills survey annually. Try to develop volunteers as future leaders. Always say thank you!

Caring
If you do this one thing well, you can get away with doing everything else badly. Remember, some people need a casserole, others need to talk.

Integrating newcomers
The InterConnections web site has suggestions for newcomers' classes. Covenanting groups of 8-12 people provide a sense of belonging; this idea was discussed during the recent mid-sized-church conference at Atlanta. Have a special welcoming ceremony when new members sign the book.

Summary
Why do some churches thrive? Because:

• People care for one another.
• People feel well connected and that they belong; overnight retreats and covenanting groups can be helpful.
• Good office support is essential; someone should be available every day.

What can you do as an individual? Pick one thing you can do well and go for it!

Finally, a UU told us how warm and welcoming to newcomers it is at All Souls Church, Washington DC. What is it like at your church?

Reported by Mike McNaughton; formatted for the web by Kasey Melski.