I’m Casey Farmer, married to Zach, who is here with us, along with our energetic children, James, aged six, and three-year-old Alice. You might have heard their enthusiasm during today’s service.

Let me provide a bit of context about my connection to St. Matthew’s. I was a member here during my childhood, from 1994 to 1999, when my family and I actively participated in church life. Later, we moved to South Mississippi and attended different churches. However, when Zach and I were planning to get married and settling in the Madison area, I had no doubt that St. Matthew’s would be our church home. This decision wasn’t a point of discussion between us; it was a natural choice.

Growing up at St. Matthew’s and experiencing other church communities, I observed the importance of active involvement. My parents were deeply engaged in church activities, as was my grandmother, who remains active at First Methodist in Starkville. Being part of the church was a family tradition, and I decided to follow suit.

In 2013, when Zach and I became members, I eagerly volunteered for the worship committee. This decision was influenced by my mother’s previous involvement, even though I wasn’t entirely sure what the role entailed. I was well aware that meaningful participation in church activities is directly proportional to the effort one invests.

My initial task was to coordinate communion volunteers, marking the beginning of my involvement. It wasn’t long before Andy, who had recently been appointed to the church, asked me to serve on the Staff Parish Relations Committee (SPRC). One defining characteristic about me is that I often find it hard to say no. So, I accepted the responsibility.

I served on the SPRC for three years, during which my family welcomed our first child, James. He began attending the weekday program, and as I observed the operations, I identified areas where improvements could be made. My desire to contribute led me to approach Brian and Andy, expressing my intent to join the weekday board once I completed my term on SPRC. This revealed another aspect of my personality – a determination to address issues I perceived as needing correction.

Subsequently, I transitioned from SPRC to the weekday board, where I served for four years. Although most committee terms lasted only three years, I stayed on for an additional year due to transitional challenges following the COVID-19 pandemic and the appointment of new directors. This period was undoubtedly trying, but I believe I left the weekday program in better shape than when I initially joined. However, after this, I decided to take a break and communicated this to Andy.

In December of the following year, Andy approached me once again, this time about the discernment team. Admittedly, I was reluctant to accept this new role. Having just concluded my time on SPRC and the board, I wasn’t entirely sure what to expect from the discernment team. The team’s objectives and modus operandi were not clearly defined at the time. It wasn’t a task I eagerly embraced.

However, I sought guidance from my grandmother, consulted my parents, and prayed about it. In the end, I realized that St. Matthew’s needed me to be a part of the discernment team, despite my reservations. It was a challenging experience, and honestly, not something I would eagerly repeat. But, I knew that the church needed my voice and determination to contribute effectively.

This brings me to the central point of my involvement – I have a tendency to say yes, coupled with a strong drive to address issues I perceive as problematic. While I may be assertive and eager to take charge, I also recognize when the church requires my support. The recent loss of some members and leaders after the discernment vote highlights the importance of collective participation.

St. Matthews relies on diverse skills and gifts. While I may be one type of leader who actively seeks solutions, others like Randy and Kaye Schloemer contribute with their composed and collected natures. The church needs all these attributes to function effectively.

As for me, I’d prefer to stay away from administrative responsibilities for a while and monthly meetings. Nevertheless, I remain actively involved in the children’s ministry, teaching Sunday school alongside my husband. Opportunities for involvement in this church are abundant, as Brian pointed out. Whether it’s teaching Sunday school, helping with the Nativity figures, or serving as an acolyte, there’s a role that aligns with your unique skills and gifts.

In closing, I urge you to find your own way to contribute, as the church currently needs your talents and expertise. Together, we can ensure that St. Matthew’s continues to grow and thrive, remaining the thriving, healthy, and happy church it has always been.