Dictionary.com defines stewardship as “the responsible overseeing and protection of something considered worth caring for and preserving.”  In Matthew 25:40, Jesus gave us a precious promise, “…inasmuch as you have done it to one of the least of these, my brothers, you did it to me.”  In coming issues of The Porch we will focus on various areas of stewardship, opportunities to serve within our church, knowing that our service to others is truly service to Jesus himself. 

Though we might tend to think of “stewardship” as overseeing what we have been given, ways to share it with others, as in giving of time and money to missions, stewardship may also apply to giving and sharing with those closest to us. The Relationships Team functions as a part of stewardship, but focuses on our church family.

Members of Gashland benefit from the work of this team, with its purpose centering around planning and overseeing social events. An example of the (at least) quarterly social activities normally offered is the Thanksgiving meal, which was held in mid-November. Earlier this fall many GEPC folk happily emerged from the Covid scourge, which had necessarily set aside most group activities, to enjoy a “pig roast” on the lawn and in the pavilion. Which was best, the delicious pulled pork sandwiches or the opportunity for much needed in-person fellowship?

Among Relationships activities are groups for all ages and interests, 20s and 30s group, food truck visits, outdoor movies, Christmas caroling, summer socials, game nights, and both men’s and women’s ministry events.  Tom Clapham sums up the importance, “Emphasizing and developing relationships within our church builds and strengthens community.”

Though the normal Wednesday night Conversations meals/meetings have been put on hold since spring of 2020, this time of fellowship has been resumed in an abbreviated format, “Renewal”. Attendees have been enjoying desserts, coffee, singing and worship. “Conversations and our other Wednesday night ministries are a wonderful way for our whole church body to come together and fellowship,” explained Pastor Michael Morefield.

Hopefully in the not too distant future group gatherings can get back to normal.  Connie Sommer hopes to return to this format, “I headed up the Conversations cook team. Hospitality is one of my spiritual gifts and I feel that sharing a meal is a great way to fellowship.” This ministry has been an excellent means of including people who may not be part of the ‘here-whenever-the-doors-are-open’ bunch. As Therese Blakley added, “We feel it is important that church members have events where they can get to know others and/or bring friends or casual attenders to enjoy fellowship and fun.”

Did you notice how often the word “fellowship” appears in this article? By definition, this term means being together, sharing similar interests, companionship. Thus, the Relationships Team is definitely all about fellowship, hosting meals, small groups, studies, etc. Dallas Reeve explained, “I am the second elder on the Team, and chair of the men’s ministry team.”