We can't do ministry by ourselves; we need one another.

Learning the grace to bring out the best in the people around us requires two transitions: 1) from dependence to independence and 2) from independence to interdependence. The Reverend Candice Brown, pastor at Capitol Hill Christian Church in Des Moines, Iowa, recently illustrated how that happens in family and church in her minister’s comments in the church newsletter.

It made me think and pray about my styles of relating to family and church. I certainly can grow in my ability to allow others to work with me cooperatively. How about you?

John Park Winkler

Candice wrote:

"During the first week of my ministry at Capitol Hill, an elder said to me, 'I'll go with you to make calls in the nursing homes and hospitals.' He was trying to help me get acquainted with the area and familiar with the people.

"But what I heard was, 'You aren't capable of doing this yourself. You need my help.'

"So, I responded with words that basically said, 'Thanks, but no thanks; I can handle it myself.'

"My 4-year old granddaughter Elizabeth often says words like that to me when I try to help her change clothes. She says, 'Grandma, I can do it myself!'

"In my years of ministry with you, there have been many times when I was grateful that we share in a joint ministry, that I don't do it by myself.

"The death of my 92-year-old aunt . . . affected my vacation week with my newest granddaughter. It also impacted my participation in the Pentecost Sunday celebration. Out of necessity, I was 'forced' to turn to others for help. It was a very visible way of acknowledging the joint ministry we share. I cannot do it by myself!

"The Worship Committee . . . carried through on the faithful blending of Pentecost worship and Memorial Day remembrance. The Elders provided spiritual leadership for the worship service, utilizing the gifts and graces God has put within them. The Pastoral Relations Committee . . . blessed my time away to be with my extended family to celebrate earthly life and the promise of eternal life.

"[Our] church secretary coordinated all the changes and adjustments that had to be made in the bulletin. And many of you prayed for the gift of new life, . . . for rest and renewal time for me, for my family in the joy of memories and the sadness of loss.

"How dare I think 'I can do it myself!' How dare any of us think that! We can't do ministry by ourselves; we need one another. I thank God this day and every day for you!

"Blessings,"
Candice