Some notes from the choir

As the GPS continues its discussions with various groups at Second, some of us spent some time with members of the choir on a recent evening.

We were interested not just to hear their thoughts about choir but also their broader dreams for the church.

Here are some things they told us:

* There's a nice mix of ages at Second now.

* We should encourage members to do their charitable giving through the church rather than individually to community organizations.

* It's wonderful to see so many children come forward for the children's sermon and to see so many new people attending worship.

* The Parish Ministry Team is doing an excellent job putting more emphasis on caring for our own members.

* Our efforts at being more hospitable are increasing and succeeding, though we need even more emphasis on that. 

* Second should advertise more and better.

* We should have more community events in the sanctuary, such as music programs.

* We should narrow the focus of mission by cutting down on the number of mission partners we support.

* People in church who used to join families at the Y camp in Estes Park, Colo., miss doing that now and need an alternative.

* The recent volunteer effort to help Harvesters is doing well.

* Change is both good and painful.

* We need more small group opportunities.

* Choir members need an opportunity to participate in Sunday School and other events that they can't do now because of rehearsal times.

* We really need to improve youth group so we can attract families with children.

* The idea of Second creating a coffee shop near UMKC is great.

* Second needs a volunteer coordinator.

If you agree or disagree, let us know -- and give us your thoughts, too. You can e-mail us at secondplan11@gmail.com or drop a note in the church file folder of GPS moderator Bill Tammeus.