The St. John’s Committes are defined by the church Constitution and designed to maintain the worship vitality, spiritual health, outreach efforts and physical properties of the church community. A Church Council Representative is appointed for a one year term to maintain the activities of the committee. That representative is not necessarily the chairperson or the person responsible for its activities. The church membership is welcomed and encouraged to join these committees so their continued existence has consistent direction and activity to assure the vibrancy of our church life.

Purpose:

The committee shall determine young adult and family needs; and provide for events, which can meet these needs.  It shall also be alert to the social concerns and needs within society, studying church, local, state, and national issues as invited to do so, and making recommendations to the Congregation Council and/or congregation as to appropriate responses.

Council Representatives Responsibilities:

v     Work in conjunction with the Social Concerns Council Representative and the Pastor.

v     Assist people to know an enriched social life and contribute to the welfare of their daily life.

v     Be the official liaison to, for and with all activities of Thrivent.

v     Shall study and maintain a list of social agencies which are available to help with such problems as alcoholism, drugs, delinquency, family and marital breakdown, mental retardation, emotionally disturbed, unwed mothers, and any other similar needs.

v     Together with the Pastoral leadership study possibilities for the implementation of spiritual care to hospitals, homes for the aged, prisons, institutions, home bound, and any situation where people need our concerns.

v     To study social and moral issues relative to state of local actions and especially where referendums are involved.

v     To make known to the parish any changes relative to new or revised programs that will affect the elderly, special need people, and low income situations.

v     To aid in community cooperation regarding social needs and such programs as meals on wheels, daily meal programs, food distribution (Care Closet), health care or flood bank needs and similar endeavors.

v     To work with special committees for World Hunger, Mississippi Self-Help, Lutheran World Relief (school kits, layettes, soap collection, quilts, health kits, sewing kits, clothing).

v     To review ELCA social related study documents and official policy statements taking action as needed.

v     In summary, to be charged with any concern that has to do with the physical, mental, social, and spiritual welfare of the parish in particular and of the community in general.