The point that the purpose of our shepherdess organization is to foster Christian fellowship is of sufficient importance to be repeated. In this lesson we shall be stressing the type of program that will build high ideals. All programs should be inspirational and instructional. Seventh-day Adventist women are busy, and the meetings we attend need to be worthwhile. The gathering should begin promptly, and the time should be used profitably. Shepherdess groups are to lift the ideals of Christian women in gospel work, and to train them for their high calling in the Master's service.
Receptionists
A garden bouquet on a table at the entrance of the meeting hall radiates cheer and lends an atmosphere of expectancy. But more vibrant than the bouquet's welcome are the gracious smiles of receptionists trained in this heartwarming skill. These women should be well poised and able to concentrate on getting the members of the group acquainted with one another. If it is necessary for secretaries to check on enrollments and records, let this be done after the welcoming, and as inconspicuously as possible. Do not allow a bustle at the door to spoil your well-planned meeting. Rotate your receptionists at the meetings. Young ministers' wives need training in making friendly approaches for Christ. Give occasion for the shy and untrained to learn under experienced women. The gracious hostess is more than a church usher; her work requires a friendlier pattern. Remember that friendliness is a rare flower and must be cultivated.
The Program
To hold the program topics in balance so that eventually a variety of needs will be met requires careful planning. In the previous number of this journal some suggestions were given as to how this can be accomplished. Subsequent lessons will provide added ideas. Make certain that all shepherdess programs have a real spiritual appeal. Become enthusiastic about the program, and expect that the whole group will share your ardor.
There is usually one typist in the group. Enlist her services in the preparation of a neatly arranged program. This will add interest to the occasion, and besides supplying information on the participants in the program, it will be filed as a record for future reference. The student wife in college may face heavier responsibility in leadership another year.
Lighting, Seating, Decorating
Christian fellowship warms in the atmosphere of illumination. Light lifts the vision of the soul. Good lighting helps to make a good meeting. Vary it occasionally when the mood must be changed. And should the season inspire a little decorating, let it be artistic and not overdone. Good taste makes us color-conscious. "The dignity of simplicity" sets the standard for gospel meetings. Seat your group comfortably. In smaller groups some have enjoyed the homey circle arrangement. Avoid having the light shine directly in the face, for this is tiring. Use some originality for proper seating, lighting, and decorating. A little attention to details may glorify an unattractive meeting place.
Introducing Speakers
Titles and degrees are becoming common enough in our ranks to receive restrained emphasis. The most favored salutation in Adventism is still "brother" or "sister." But for the sake of training workers to meet all classes it may well be "Mrs. Smith" or "Miss Jones." No extreme stand should be taken, however, and a recognized authority such as a medical or educational speaker may be addressed as "Dr. Brown." While we should be gracious and appreciative of guest speakers, it is well to guard against flattery. Excessive praise can bring embarrassment to the person it is intended to honor, and it is not in harmony with the 'sincerity of a group of shepherdesses. The college speech teacher might be invited to address the group on the subject of introducing speakers, for this is important and of great interest.
Building the Membership
The membership of the shepherdess group is the responsibility of every member—not of the leadership alone. It is surprising what the use of a graph membership device will accomplish in indicating progress. It will keep the need before the entire group in a stimulating way. Personal work is the secret of growth. List your potential membership, and then assign to the shepherdesses the names of certain persons to be worked with.
The help of baby sitters has become a necessity in building up the regular attendance of busy mothers. Grandmothers, and also juniors, may help to solve the problem. At our larger centers a room adjoining the regular meeting place has interested volunteer baby sitters.
During the Meeting
Some mothers claim that they cannot sit idle during the meeting. They prefer to do mending or some needlework. The question has been discussed freely and our counsel has been sought. While the mending basket would not be out of place at an occasional meeting, we seriously question whether it belongs there every time the group meets. Shepherdesses gather together for a spiritual and professional fellowship. They do not represent a sewing circle. Homemakers and career women may need a change from their routine duties, and this may be provided by interesting them in mental and spiritual growth. Adventist women as a group are exceptionally active. They will do well to emulate the spirit of Mary, who gave first attention to her spiritual needs. The Master commended her for this, and tactfully cautioned her sister, Martha, to follow her example.
Dismissing the Meeting
After the formal dismissal allow members to linger to chat together and to make new friends. If you hold to the scheduled closing time, and make allowance for this need, it will be enthusiastically accepted by all. This is mother's free evening and she enjoys meeting her friends. Each shepherdess, whether minister or doctor's wife, teacher or nurse, Bible instructor or church secretary, will revel in this treat. It leads to the broad road of lasting friendships. So do not be too hasty about closing the door of the meeting place. Leaders in responsibility will make good use of these lingering moments to interview women who are to assist with the next program.
The Offering
The taking of an offering is entirely optional. Where there is need for a special expense or project this should be left to the discretion of the leaders. In college communities where students must watch every penny it may produce unnecessary hardship, which will be reflected in the attendance. On this point great caution may be the part of wisdom.
