Episcopal Church Foundation Vestry Papers - for leading congregations

The new year is always a great time to think about what we want to accomplish. But all too often we make overly ambitious, impossible resolutions with their focus on our selves, our bodies, our pocketbooks. And when we fail, we revert to our old ways of being, disappointment and sometimes self-loathing just below the surface.

I wonder if we might develop resolutions with two parameters. First, we could craft resolutions guided by a simple philosophy: just one more. Instead of going from coach potato to Iron Man, pledging to hit the gym every day and reach a single-digit BMI, our resolution could be just one more work out session, one more home cooked meal, one more day of eating healthy. One more hour without a cigarette or one more percentage point socked into the savings account.

One more doesn’t seem overwhelming. One more is possible. And sustainable.

The second parameter is to think about resolutions that aren’t me-focused. Sure, losing weight or exercising more, quitting smoking or saving more money are good goals. But they target our physical and financial health. What about resolutions that support and strengthen our spiritual health?

Church leaders might consider these two parameters at the first vestry meeting of the year as they set some “new year’s resolutions.” 

Think about adding just one more greeter at the front door. This person is not an usher but someone designated to welcome guests, answer questions, and introduce them to other people in the congregation. 

Consider looking at the budget and adding just one more percentage point to the outreach line item. In small and large budgets, 1 percent is a manageable stretch. And for the soup kitchen or homeless shelter, 1 percent can help a lot of people. 

What about adding just one more Bible study? Study and after study shows that healthy churches are ones actively engaged in reading and talking about scripture. And God’s word moves us to act for others, to seek to be Christ-like in all we say and do. 

What one thing can you do to love your neighbor, to help a friend and a stranger? What one thing can your congregation do to live into the new year with grace and hope?

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