The Weekly Epistle 9/15/21

Are you familiar with the story of four people who went to the same church?  Their names were, Everybody, Somebody, Anybody, and Nobody. 
 
Whenever there was a job to do in the church, Everybody was asked to do it. Everybody was sure Somebody would do it. Anybody could have done it, but Nobody did it. Somebody got angry about that because it was Everybody’s job. Everybody thought Anybody could do it, but Nobody realized that Everybody wouldn’t do it. In the end, Everybody blamed Somebody when Nobody did what Anybody could have done.
 
That is meant to make you smile.  It also has a way of reminding us that when there is a job to do, we can easily assume that someone else will take care of it.  It shouldn’t surprise you that at EBC we have a need for volunteers.  In that way we are your typical church.  You have likely heard the phrase, “20% of the people are doing 80% of the work.”  That applies across the board to all churches regardless of its size. 
 
I am thankful for the 20% who serve here on a consistent basis.  I am encouraged by the times when people have jumped in to help.  For example, the ones who made the church picnic happen and others who spent some time on the church gardens.  
 
God has arranged the parts of this body for the building up of the church.  God has placed each person here for a reason.  When one part suffers, the whole body suffers.  Please consider how you can serve here at EBC.  Respond to the opportunities presented to everybody without assuming somebody else will do it.  
 
Did you know that we can only offer nursery in second service?  Did you know that all ages from preschool to 5^thgrade meet together in one class?  Why?  We don’t have enough volunteers.  My vision for EBC was that we could offer EBC kids in both services.  Yet we struggle to staff one service.  
 
We need workers for the hospitality team which is a vital ministry of engaging newcomers on Sunday morning.  Are you planning on attending the breakfast and hospitality training at the church on Saturday, September 25?  
 
Monday night basketball will be starting soon and could use volunteers to give up one or two Mondays a month.  Being a basketball star isn’t required.  Being available to interact with guys from the community who need to see the love of Christ is needed.
 
There is a need for help with the tech side of things in worship each week.  There will be local outreach events coming up that will ask for your help.  Buildings and grounds require your help.  
You can contact the office or if you know the person in charge of the ministries needing help, then feel free to talk with them.  
 
We need you!  Not to fill a position, but to make a difference in the church and in the world. 
 
Blessings, Pastor Brian