Now is the Time

          Hosting General Assembly is a big deal. As a result almost everyone I talk with these days says; “You must be swamped getting ready for GA!” In point of fact there is a lot o work involved, but the OGA staff, executive committee, work group leaders and participants are working so well and so hard, that my part is pretty manageable. But the biggest item that now looms on the horizon calls for all of us Presbyterians in the Minnesota/Wisconsin area to step up. That item is volunteering for specific duties the week in which GA takes place. It’s easy to think, “Oh yea, that could be fun and informative, I’ll be sure to sign up, first thing tomorrow.” Ouch!!  Therein lies the problem, there aren’t too many tomorrows left until the start of our family get together. 

          I hope that all who read this will take the 5-10 minutes it takes to register and do so today! I am writing this blog immediately after filling out my volunteer dance card. Because I tend to be an outgoing person who enjoys talking to people, I have signed up to:

          1)greet guests at the Hotel (Thur)

          2)greet guests at the airport (Fri)

          3)work the registration desk (Sat) &

          4)work at volunteer check in desk (Tue)

In addition to these tangible tasks, knowing the importance of keeping centered on our work as a church, I have also volunteered to be a prayer partner, which means I will be randomly assigned to a commissioner and I will pray for that person each day during the Assembly. These combined with the other responsibilities I will have will keep me quite busy, but I am looking forward to it with great anticipation.

          I have attended enough GA’s over the years that I truly enjoy the atmosphere and the friendships that are celebrated in this gathering. I know that any of you who give some time for this big event will also enjoy it very much. I encourage you to sign up today, there are a wide variety of opportunities, my choices were greeting people, you can also sing, set up and tear down meetings, assist committees, usher, participate in worship, or PRAY. Remember just one volunteer shift entitles you to free access to all plenary sessions if you’re the type that wants to watch how the meetings unfold. Believe me it is well worth your time and I’m willing to bet after you’ve served one shift, you’ll offer to take a second or third shift as well. Almost everyone does. The clock is ticking, don’t wait too long and miss a great opportunity.

Chaz

Category: Executive Presbyter