APRIL/'62

By this time information has reached most of the readers of Letter to Laymen concerning the specially called meeting of the Board of Directors on Friday, April 13, 1962. At that meeting, resignations were accepted from Joseph W. Mathews, Joseph A. Slicker, Joseph L. Pierce, Donald R. Warren, David M. McCleskey, L. Thurston Barnett, William R. Cozart, and Allan R. Brockway (on.study leave this year, 1961-62).

This was a lengthy meeting, one in which all concerned were heard, and in which all issues presented were thoroughly discussed. It is my belief that the twenty-one Board members present engaged in their task with genuine Christian seriousness. The issue before the Board was the acceptance of the resignations which had been presented to the Executive Director. The background and context were complex.

For many months, it had been clear to the members of the staff and the Board that extensive alterations in the program and the staff would be necessary before next fall. The important issues involved were as follows: the matter of financial support for a large staff; the lines of authority for decisions about the program; the internal organization of the Community; the emphasis and style of mission; the problem of internal communication; the understanding reliance within the corporate ministry.

In the midst of the struggle over these issues an impasse was reached, and a division became apparent. Those directly involved felt that resignations were the necessary and responsible action. The Board, after hearing from everyone who wished to speak, and after careful deliberation of the possible alternatives, confirmed the acceptance of the resignations.

Such an action does not represent a judgment of right or wrong upon any of those involved. It acknowledges the desire within the former staff to move in different directions toward one common goal. Those who are leaving are now in the midst of finding ways to work together for the renewal of the Church along the lines they see as most appropriate. The action of the Board affirms the continuing ministry of the Christian Faith-and-Life Community under the direction of W. Jack Lewis, Robert R. Bryant, James W. Wagener, William H. Smith, and Doris G. Neal.

On Monday, May 14, the continuing staff and those departing met at the Laos House with the members of the Board for dinner and a Ritual of Separation. This was a significant evening as we participated in worship through the use of the Daily Office of the Community. Robert Bryant, Joseph Pierce and Russell Roberson gave the Words of Witness in the service. Jack Lewis was the Liturgist. Joseph Mathews, who had to be in the east this day, sent a message which was read to the group.

The decision of the men involved and the action of the Board are now accomplished. All of us are ready to move ahead with renewed effort and dedication.

Glen E. I.ewis