Thoughts from our Community Lay Director (CLD).

Whoever is praying for snow, please stop. These were the words I heard over and over again during the past several weeks. As much as I love snow, even I am ready for some sunny, warmer weather. Although the weather disrupted our Gathering and board meeting, the board was able to approve the scholarship policy for teamers. The policy is included in this newsletter. Hopefully, we will be able to approve a policy format for sponsors and pilgrims during our next meeting in March. February is also when the board forms the Nominating Committee for our spring elections. When I recall my experience with these elections, there were several things I wish I knew before actually attending my first board meeting. If you wish to seek a board position, or if you would like to nominate someone for a board position, here are some things you may like to know. First, board members must be willing to sign our Letter of Agreement with the Upper Room. The Upper Room has revised this agreement to include participation in their regional training. All new board members should plan to attend a one day training session. Currently, there is a session scheduled in Williamsburg, VA on June 5, 2010. Second, board members meet for board meetings at 1:30 before the Gathering each month. Attendance at these meetings is important for the board to fulfill its duties to the Community. Lay Board members include a Secretary, Treasurer, Community Lay Director, Assistant Community Lay Director, and eight other lay members. Pastor positions on the board include two Spiritual Directors and one Community Spiritual Director. Anyone willing to serve on the board should be prepared for the possibility that they may be asked to serve as an officer.

Finally, board members serve in other ways, such as the Team Selection Committee or as a Board Representative on a Weekend. Although the responsibilities of the board may seem like a lot, don’t be overwhelmed if you believe God is calling you to serve. You, as an individual, won’t need to commit to ALL of these responsibilities. When the board works together, and everyone takes on his or her share of responsibilities, using the talents and gifts God gives, things get done. Please contact me if you are willing to serve on the board. We will hold elections in May, with new board members taking their positions in July.

DeColores!

Becky Thode

Thoughts from Our Community Spiritual Director (CSD)

The Upper Room is coming to Fredericksburg to provide training to our clergy who are serving in the Emmaus Community. The training will be held on Thursday, April 15, 2010 at 4:30 pm at Chancellor Christian Church, 11409 Brock Road, Spotsylvania, VA. A "working" supper will be served. This Upper Room Walk To Emmaus and Chrysalis Training is being held to ensure that all the clergy serving within each community are aware of the history and theology of the Walk to Emmaus and Chrysalis movement, understand the duties of the Community Spiritual Director, Weekend Spiritual Directors and Assistant Spiritual Directors and are informed about the development of clergy qualifications. This training event includes the following modules: An introduction, Clergy Roles and Responsibilities, Our Theology, Our Ecumenical Heritage, Scripture and Historical Background. It also allows for opportunity for community clergy to ask questions and seek clarification from a Walk to Emmaus/Chrysalis Regional Clergy Leader. All clergy are encouraged to attend this training event. In order to plan for food and training materials, please RSVP to Chancellor Christian at 540-972-8361, (leave message), or email tom@chancellorchristian.com. There is no charge; however, donations will be accepted for the cost of food.

Tom Britt

* The positions marked with an "*" are specific officers of the Board.  These individuals are elected by the Board from the membership of the Board to fill the positions as necessary.  The year in ( ) next to the Board members name indicates the year they will come off of the board.  A given year on the Board starts on 1 July and ends the next year on 30 June. The Board runs between 2 calendar years (e.g., 2009-2010 = 2010) so the (year) designates the ending Board year.