St. Paul's Episcopal Church

Do any of you sometimes wonder, “what does so-and-so do for a living?” or “does anyone in the parish know how to do x, y or z?”  I have had parishioners ask me if I know who might do certain tasks or provide certain services.  Sometimes I can answer but more often I am unable to offer anything.  This has made me realize that the people with whom I worship, sit on committees, sing and do ministry are largely still unknown to me.  I’m sure it is simply an effect of living in such a high-speed, anonymous society where many of us just don’t have time to connect on levels deeper than we do.  On the other hand, and still thinking of careers or talents, perhaps some of us may be reluctant to let others know that we have certain capabilities because then we might be asked to do something.  For years I refused queries to be treasurer of this or that organization because doing finances is what I do 40+ hours per week, so I can certainly relate to anyone who might feel that reluctance.  What changed my mind was realizing that I have a talent that God gave me and while I can earn a living with that talent, I should at least be willing to give a portion of the talent without compensation.

So, where is all of this leading?  Well, the Stewardship Committee has talked about putting together a directory of parishioners listing their talents, including their careers (current and former), their hobbies and their non-professional skills.  We see it as a resource to potentially fill two needs:  if a parishioner needs legal services for example, they can look up who in the parish is an attorney, etc. or if the church has a need for a plumber, we can see who does plumbing for a living or as a homeowner and could be called upon. Referring to my comment about donating my services, this is not to say that services or skills listed would be expected to be given gratis.  Whatever might transact between two parties is entirely negotiable between the two parties.  The directory would simply be a list of who does what, like our own Yellow Pages.  In the spirit of full disclosure, however, the committee has in mind to do a fundraiser to kick off our pledge drive in October, which will include auctions for services performed by parishioners and you may be asked to donate a portion of your talent.

If you would like to be listed, please look for a form in the narthex, the great hall or online.  Complete the form and return to attention of the Stewardship Committee by Easter Sunday, April 4 2010.  We hope to have it compiled by May 1, 2010.  Thank you.