Webster Word

Message from the Moderator

This is my first opportunity to greet and communicate with our members and friends of the Webster Word. I know some of you are no longer able to join us in the Sanctuary each Sunday, but I also know how much you still care for our small church in the Village.

I have accepted the duties of Moderator because I, too, care for the rich history and the future of Webster Congregational Church. What I have found here during my short membership are warm, welcoming members, a governance system that relies heavily on a member – input and opinion and a traditional form of worship much like that of my childhood church. Sure I could worship God at home; read my confirmation Bible, pray in the garden I have cultivated and put on a CD of the Mormon Tabernacle Choir. Of course, there must be music in order to worship! But, Art and I prefer to be with all of you, worshiping and singing with the Webster Community.

And so, I approach this job of Moderator with my eyes wide open and with the benefit of working with many who know how Webster works when it works best. It is apparent that the Constitution and administrative structure of our church is both democratic and fair and should promote diverse opinion that leads to a consensus of the majority. I respect this process and want it to work for the spiritual, financial and social health of Webster.

We began our church’s year by convening at our Annual Meeting on January 18 and the members present conducted a lively discussion of four issues requiring voting. The results of these votes are reported elsewhere in this edition of the Webster Word. The Board will begin to carry out these decisions.

I will need your help and support throughout the year for many new and some old undertakings. Will you volunteer for a committee, help with one of our major fundraising efforts or bring a friend to church? Will you honor our best traditions and yet know how to help us grow and find new traditions – for young and old?

I will need your prayers and understanding; I will give Webster my time and talents in a respectful and loving way. Is that a fair exchange?

Ann Helton, Moderator