However, churches like Messiah are also institutions - or businesses. As such we are regulated by the State which requires that we have a constitution, properly elected officers and official membership rolls. These are good things. They are also important things when making core decisions as a community - like the call of a new pastor! As we work our way towards - hopefully - the call of a new pastor sometime this summer we need to make sure our Voting Membership rolls are in good order. Part of my responsibility as an interim pastor is to see that everybody is where they want to be membership wise.

Here's how you can help.

• If you have any question about your membership status please give us a call. If you attend regularly, make financial contributions to our ministry, and were formally received into membership at some point you should be good to go.
• If our records have you listed as a member, but we do not have a record of your involvement or financial support during the past 12 months, we may give you a call or drop you a note. Sometimes people move, or things in your life have changed, or maybe we've missed something. It happens. So, please understand we're calling just to be sure what you want to be happening is, in fact, happening!
• We also have some people who are totally engaged, and who we think are members, but don't seem to be on the books. If this is the case we might call as well. If you prefer not to be a formal member that's fine. Just say. However, you have to be a formal Voting Member to vote on our new pastor. As I say, we want to be sure you can participate as you wish!!
• Finally, if you know you're not a member, or have been considering membership, or are waiting to see, please know that we would love to formalize your membership soon and allow you to participate in the actual call of our next pastor. Once again, please give us a call or drop us an email if you wish to discuss formal membership.