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This past Sunday we honored Allison Shearouse and celebrated her time with us as Director of Christian Education. We wish Allison and her family the best as she senses God’s call to serve First Presbyterian Church in Savannah. So, what's next for JCPC? How will we find the right staff to lead in the area of Christian Education in the years to come?
Our Personnel Committee has already met with the elders and members of our Christian Education Ministry Team to seek their input on what is needed, both in the short term and the long run. Our Christian Education Ministry Team is committed to stepping up and supporting the most important ministries that need to continue. We are also considering the idea of an interim, or perhaps a seminary student, to help in the short term. However, there is also a desire to take enough time to discern what we need in the way of Christian Education in the years to come. While we do not want to waste any time, we also do not want to hurry the process in order to find the right person.
In recent years, the field of Christian Education has gone through significant change. Traditional ways of education, such as Sunday School for children and youth, are experiencing decreased participation in almost all churches. So, how do we continue to teach learners of all ages in this changing world -- changes that were taking place even before we were hit with a pandemic? During the pandemic, we have adapted our methods of education using things like Zoom and online resources. Some have actually found these better suited to their way of learning. However, in looking for the right person to lead us, there may be new skill sets needed now and in the coming years. Our overall goal of making Christ followers of all ages remains the same. But the strategies, methodologies, and leadership skills required to make that happen are changing.
Our Personnel Committee will soon create a Search Committee to find the right staff member to fill these roles. We plan to survey the congregation and ask for your input on what you think we need now and in the coming years. So, please respond when you see the survey. Also, if you could offer some of your time to help our Christian Education Ministry Team during this time of transition, I know it would be appreciated. Feel free to contact me so I can connect you with the right person. Above all, please be in prayer for those on our Search and Personnel Committees as they seek to discern God's will for JCPC in the years to come!
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