December 15, 2024

Thoughts: Stasis

Rev. Dr. Barry W. Szymanski, Interim Executive Director

The word “stasis” denotes motionlessness, inertia, immobility, or, simply, the status quo. Stasis is a lack of change. “Change,” on the other hand, denotes transformation, shifts, and adjustments. Who was one of the major change agents in the world? I would vote for Jesus.

The Torah was the Law for centuries. By complying with the many rules of the Torah, the Israelites were assured they were righteous before the divine. When Jesus announced he came not to abolish that Way, but to fulfill it, he altered our approach to God. Through his teaching and resurrection, our relationship with God is fulfilled – a transformation. When we open ourselves to the Holy Spirit, we live a new life for ourselves, our fellow congregants, and our communities. St. Peter tells us what was spoken through the prophet Joel: “God declares, that I will pour out my Spirit upon all flesh, and your sons and your daughters shall prophesy, and your young men shall see visions, and your old men shall dream dreams.”

What were the dreams of the founders of your church? How have those dreams developed? How are they being fulfilled? What are the current visions of your congregation? How do the teachings of Jesus resonate with your community? Is your church a change agent? Or is it, or are you, stuck in stasis?

(Note: ‘Thoughts’ are Barry’s musings based upon scripture and remain his own opinions, and not those of the National Association, though he prays that they are meaningful to all.)

Scripture: Acts 2

Merry Christmas from MOMC!

Contribute to The Congregationalist

Are you interested in contributing to The Congregationalist magazine? We’d love to share your thoughts on the pages of our “Roots” themed March edition!

To contribute, send your submission to Editor Maggie Helmick by January 1st!

One Great Hour of Sharing Impact

Julie Robie, Missions Coordinator

Over the last 12 months, the NACCC, through the MOMC, has been able to distribute One Great Hour of Sharing (OGHS) funds in the name of Christ toward:

• Hurricanes Helene and Milton relief

• Iowa flood relief

• Gaza disaster relief
• Home repairs and food for families in need
• Mission partners’ medical expenses

• Mission partners’ building and equipment repairs
• And more!

To ensure that reserve funds are available when needed, please consider donating to the OGHS General Fund throughout the year. Your contributions make a real difference in the lives of others!

Update Your Church Information Form

The NACCC is best able to serve our member churches when our staff and leaders are in regular contact with your church leadership. This helps us stay informed about your church’s needs and desires, ensuring that we can offer the right resources and support and keep you aware of the opportunities we have to offer.

Please take a few minutes to fill out a Church Information Form with the contact information for your church’s leaders so that we can effectively serve and connect with your church in the new year!

Completed forms can be emailed to NACCC Communications Manager Maggie Helmick.

Event Calendar

February 11, 2025, 6:15 pm – 7:45 pm CT (4:15 pm PT; 7:15 pm ET)
Webinar Series: Cultivating Generous Congregations Course

This four-part interactive seminar is intended to help your congregation build a culture of generosity unique to your needs and challenges. Click here for more information or to register to attend.

March 13-17, 2025
Freedom Journey Trip, Greenville, SC

The focus of this trip is to learn more about the African American culture, deepen our faith, and learn how God’s grace carried generations of people through unspeakable hardship. Click here for more information.