Wandering & Wondering with Pastor Carrie
As many of you know, I’m meeting with different Sunday School classes via Zoom over the summer. If your class isn’t on the calendar, I’ll visit in person once I arrive. I met with Pyrexia, and they submitted some great questions. I thought it would be helpful to share my replies with all of you. — Pastor Carrie
Q: How might we foster a deeper connection between the attendees at 2B that goes beyond Sunday School groupings? What have you participated in that has seemingly been meaningful and promoted relationships within the body of a congregation?
A: SOCIALS!!! And being creative in the socials. So maybe we use my coming as a springboard. Do a social and you need X number from the choir; X number of couples; X number of under 70; etc. Then it gets you talking to people you might not normally engage with.
Q: As a relatively new member of this faith community, it seems that the uniqueness of theological interpretation for our area of the country is either unknown or feared. I’d like to see us share who we are and what we believe we have to offer for those who might be questioning, bored with the standard fare, or simply inquisitive. How have you seen congregations effectively offer themselves to their community?
A: We have to get out of the four walls, metaphorically and literally. I guess my question back to you would be: why did you come? There are a lot of ways of sharing who we are without CHANGING who we are. And we have to use the tools we have—social media, podcasting, making unique videos that tell our story, past and present.
Q: Could you support instilling some creative ways of increasing 2ndB’s presence in the community such as a summer softball team or hosting musical house concerts or sponsoring social justice presentations/lectures?
A: 100%! I have already been looking at ways that we can do that. Some might be uncomfortable for some folks. But all will be impactful. Festivals are always an easy way. Have a booth, give out freeze pops or swag with the church logo and “Love. All. Now” on it with a little bit about us. We will get noticed and people will be curious.
Q: Would you be in support of changing 2ndB’s name so that it does not include the word Baptist?
A: Oh, I love this question. Ok, here is my honest answer. No. I think being rooted in Baptist traditions is what makes 2B unique. Do we KNOW that people are not coming here because of our name? Could we capitalize on the name in a way to market to those who might be interested in us? I mean, you have called a FEMALE SENIOR PASTOR. That alone will separate you!
Q: What concerns you most about becoming senior pastor in West Texas – Baptist church?
A: First and foremost, being far from family. They are so supportive and excited for this new chapter, and we are all trying to wrap our heads around the distance. I am not overly concerned about the politics. They are what they are. I am more concerned with how I as a follower and we as a church respond to the climate.
We’re sharing these conversations a little at a time so we can all listen, reflect, and grow together. Check back next week for more questions and answers as we continue getting to know Pastor Carrie and prepare for what’s ahead!
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