I know this feeling.

I’ve mentioned before that I serve as an elder at my church. There’s some fissures forming as a result of the elder/deacon structure, and we’re experiencing a steady and noticable decline in attendance. I wrote an e-mail to a friend of mine explaining the situation, and since it’s relevant, I figured I’d share.

As to avoid a WALL-OF-TEXT comment, I’ve posted the content here:

http://www.shortText.com/oehzhp (the key is elder).

I’d be interested in your thoughts on that. You’re a pastor, and so you’re *in* the institution, and it seems like it’s your obligation as pastor to maintain it. How do you respond to criticisms of the institution as a whole? Is church, as we know it, futile?

So glad you’re back today – hope you had a good time away.

Welcome back, Mr. Hayward.

Nice piece. Love the simplicity of this.