I enjoy hosting parties and gatherings. I love the mingling of friends and associates, sharing food and stories, watching people develop new relationships, and playing silly games. When I became your Transitional Presbytery Leader I was aware that Giddings-Lovejoy would be hosting the biggest parties of the denomination! These include
Big Tent
and
General Assembly (GA)
. In addition, we are hosting the
Association of Mid-Council Leaders and Association of Stated Clerks
gathering, along with the
Polity Conference
(AMCL/ASC Poli-con). GA goes from June 16 – 23, 2018. AMCL/ASC Poli-con is October 12- 17, 2017. Big Tent runs from July 6 – 8 this summer, and is the one we need to focus on.
Like hosting any party, we want to look our best, wash the dishes and vacuum. And of course take all of the undesirables and put them in a room or closet and shut the door tight!
Our focus needs to be on Big Tent for now. The denomination website says, “Big Tent 2017, will be held on the beautiful campus of Washington University in St. Louis, MO, July 6 -8th. The theme will emphasize the hope of the Gospel and its power to transform society in our current cultural context, marked by anxiety, racial division, political animosity, and economic inequality. Through dialogue, workshops, exhibits, and engagement with one another, participants will engage the Church in its mission of justice-making and peace.” We are expecting 400 Presbyterians to attend Big Tent. They will be coming to Washington University campus to participate in learning, worship, and fellowship.
The event is open to all who register, but we are in need of people to do a variety of volunteer activities. The following is the list thus far and how many time slots that are still available. A volunteer can work more than one time slot. You must also buy a parking pass, which is reimbursed by the presbytery for all volunteers.
On Site Registration
: 3 slots available.
Information Booth
: 6 slots available.
Greeters and Guides
: 21 slots available. Especially for Saturday July 8.
Meal Helpers
: 2 slots available.
Children/Youth Program Reception
: 7 slots available.
Shuttle Drives
: These are the folks who drive golf carts around the campus and help people with mobility issues. There are 90 slots available, but once again, you can volunteer for several slots.
Workshop Assistant
: 7 slots available.
I hope you can find the time to volunteer. Let’s have fun as we host the Big Tent event.
Rev. Craig M. Howard
Presbytery of Giddings-Lovejoy Transitional Leader
(314) 772-2395, ext. 110
