Bus 475 - Career Connection: Mission, Vision, and You

Career Connection: Mission, Vision, and You

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BUS/475

April 14, 2016

Ben McCollum

Over the past five years, I have worked in the administration section of two different churches.  I have found great satisfaction in this work.  Not because I am bringing people closer to God or spirituality, but because of the good that I feel I am doing for the small amount of people I interact with.  It take a certain type of personality to be able to handle and understand the complex issues come along with regular church members and those seeking financial help from the church.

At the end of every service, the congregation read out loud together, “No matter who you are, or where you are on life’s journey, you are welcome here.”  This best summarizes the welcoming nature and inclusiveness of this congregation.  Fellowship Congregational UCC is an Open and Affirming Congregation, which loosely translated means, they are here for all people, regardless of age, race, gender, sexual orientation, or gender identity.  In the role of church secretary, a person must be respectful to all people, and provide sympathy to those who have been cast out by what is considered normal society.  The congregational adheres to these beliefs by putting their money where their mouth is.  Monetary collections from church members are distributed to missions local and abroad, including The Oklahoma Equality Center, Planned Parenthood, JustHope, and many more.  The congregation also uses their actions to uphold their beliefs.  Monthly they cook and serve a meal at the Tulsa Day Center, participate in Tulsa Pride each year, and often coordinate and attend peaceful rallies to support local and national issues.