This involved pulling weeds from around the trees and the outdoor altar, then tilling the soil and spreading out new mulch. By the time we finished more people had started to arrive. As they were arriving they were sort of placing food they brought here and there and then going off to do whatever. Since no one else seemed to really be in charge of the food that was fast becoming an unorganized pile, I decided to step up and take some initiative.
I quickly became the uncontested "food lady" if you will. People were asking where to put things, etc. When it came time to prepare to serve the food, someone came up to me and asked what I wanted to do. It was surprising at first to have so many people, most of which I didn't know very well, just sort of following along and asking me what to do. But my surprise was quickly overpowered by a sense of calm and purpose. It felt right and natural.
Interestingly enough, just the other day the Rector said that "to be a leader its important to have followers. If you look behind you and no one is following then you aren't a leader." I guess I really am becoming a leader at this church. And it feels great.
Below is a photo of the outdoor altar.
