Dear Waterkin,

Spring is in the air and brings with it a wind of change and growth within the Church of All Worlds. There are rumors floating around about the possible dissolution of the corporate entity, about Priests and Priestesses leaving, about power struggles and many other items. While many changes are afoot, I don't see CAW as being on the brink of collapse. CAW has experienced tremendous growth over the past few years. I suspect that growth will continue. It's gone beyond the control of the organization. Somewhat like a chemical reaction when substances reach critical mass. It is this growth, and the diversity of ideas, personalities and opinions that accompany the expansion of CAW, which has put pressure on the infrastructure and worn down our dedicated and hard working Clergy and administrative personnel.

I believe that dispersal of the workload of the administration of CAW is essential to health and stability of the organization. Spirit Weavers Nest has formally offered to handle the tasks of membership services. This includes receipt of dues, membership applications, and Green Egg subscriptions; maintenance of membership records; the sending out of membership cards and renewal notices and the fielding of questions regarding membership. Spirit Weavers would deposit all monies received but would not have withdrawal or check writing capacity. That would reside in the hands of the Treasurer of CAW.

I call on other Nests to offer their time and services to handle other aspects of the administration. Some of those include web site management, inquiries concerning CAW (nonmembership questions), festivals, maintenance of sacred land, sales of CAW merchandise and others I can't think of off the top of my head. This spreading of the work accomplishes several things. One is to allow our Clergy to focus on Visioning and the Spiritual side of our community. Another is the drawing together of the clan by more people being a part of the organization. Third is limiting burnout (which we've seen over and over again.) Fourth is the growth experienced by the members who are actively involved in the workings of CAW. Fifth is the satisfaction of contribution. Sixth is the tapping of the varied skills, ideas and creativity of the membership at large. I'm certain there are more benefits to be reaped by sowing far and wide.

I know that there are many issues to resolve. However, in today's world, one foreseen by Heinlein, communications have created virtual next door neighbors. Let's spread the burden and the joys of the work to keep our community vibrant. I believe in CAW because I believe in the members.

The next issue of CAWBWEB is Summer 1997. Please have submissions to me by June 7, 1997.

May you never thirst!

Ronn Walks With Fire

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