At this time of year, many congregations are involved in annual parish meetings. In most places, annual meetings are treated as a necessary evil, a canonical requirement which has to be fulfilled, but drawing no more than cursory interest from most of the membership. This is unfortunate. Annual parish meetings have the potential to be one of the high points in the life of a congregation rather than an event which attracts only the current leaders of the church.

Well-run annual parish meetings can move briskly, yet can provide an opportunity for newcomers or those who aren't "regulars" to find out what's happening in the congregation. Reports in booklet form from various leaders and committees can provide valuable information about a parish's mission and ministry. Participants in annual parish meetings have an opportunity to help shape the future of their congregation. The election of wardens and vestry members as well as diocesan convention delegates ought to be taken seriously by any caring church member and shouldn't be considered as popularity contests.

Why not attend your annual parish meeting this year? Get involved in the life of the congregation. Learn more about how it works. You might find it a positive experience.