Dear Friends,

One of the main difficulties faced by some churches today is the reality of an aging congregation and a lack of younger people willing to help out or take over key roles. It can be a real problem – not just when it comes to mission, but also to the nurture and growth of those within the faith community.

Sadly, at Christ Church, we are not immune to this. More and more we are finding that the things we want to do are made more difficult by a lack of those who are able to do them. So either we do less, or we concentrate on doing what we can, not by looking to one or two individuals, but by taking a few lessons from Geese……!

‘Lessons from Geese provides a perfect example of the importance of team work and how it can have a profound and powerful effect on any form of personal, business, or church endeavour. When we use these five principles, it helps to foster and encourage a level of passion and energy in ourselves, as well as those with whom we walk alongside in our journey of faith.

But, it is essential to remember that teamwork only happens when it is continually nurtured and encouraged.

Lesson 1 – The Importance of Achieving Goals

As each goose flaps its wings it creates UPLIFT for the birds that follow. By flying in a ‘V’ formation the whole flock adds 71 % extra to the flying range.

Outcome

When we have a sense of community and focus, we create trust and can help each other to achieve our goals.

Lesson 2 – The Importance of Team Work

When a goose falls out of formation it suddenly feels the drag and resistance of flying alone. It quickly moves back to take advantage of the lifting power of the birds in front.

Outcome

If we had as much sense as geese we would stay in formation with those headed where we want to go. We are willing to accept their help and give our help to others.

Lesson 3 – The Importance of Sharing

When a goose tires of flying up front it drops back into formation and another goose flies to the point position.

Outcome

It pays to take turns doing the hard tasks. We should respect and protect each other’s unique arrangement of skills, capabilities, talents and resources.

Lesson 4 – The Importance of Empathy and Understanding

When a goose gets sick, two geese drop out of formation and follow it down to the ground to help and protect it.

Outcome

If we have as much sense as geese we will stand by each other in difficult times, as well as when we are strong.

Lesson 5 – The Importance of Encouragement

Geese flying in formation ‘HONK’ to encourage those up front to keep up with their speed.

Outcome

We need to make sure our honking is encouraging. In groups and teams where there is encouragement, production is much greater. ‘Individual empowerment results from quality honking’

(Author Unknown)

 

However we deal with the issues we face as a worshipping and missional community – I pray that we face them together, through seeking the will of God, being empowered by the Spirit, and taking Christ as our example and guide.

Yours in Christ,

Helen <><