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EDITORIAL ( Ranger-Net )REPLY OF : "LEADERSHIP SERIES" CONCERNING UNIFORMS SUBJECT, YOU MAKE THE UNIFORM, BY CHAPLAIN JEFF ORTNER #446 I believe what we are discussing on the Ranger-net is very important and want to thank all of you. Who are adding your 2-cents worth within this uniform conversation. It is a worth while subject of how our leadership needs to be and perceived to the general public and towards the boys as a ministry. I know that T-shirts have their place at the right time and also uniforms are very important too. When I think of T-shirts as a common wear at all meetings. It pulls my thoughts to it's, "just a youth group" and not a organized uniformed boys program. But we all know that it is a ministry to boys which is our # 1 goal, in Royal Rangers. I feel that this is more than just a ministry, It has become to many of you as a way of life to become a witness to others. It is similar to being in the ministry. It's not what you get out of it. It's what you put into it. You make the ministry, as well as leaders make the uniform within the Ranger program. Let me give you an example: myself as a pastor, working around the yard, field etc. I wear T-shirts, sloppy work clothing and whatever helps me do the job. If I leave that place to go to a home to visit, school, even the store. My clothing will change, because being a part of a small town, I know I'll run into someone that I know. I am a pastor and I am in a professional business too. A Pastor "IS" a professional profession (job). It is a ministry 1st, but a outward witness to others too. So my uniform changes towards those that see me in nicer clothing. It may not be a suit and tie every time, but it sure is nicer than my play or work clothing. This is what these guys are trying to say here about wearing uniforms. It's more than just a Wednesdays night baby sitting club towards boys. It has become a professional witness towards others. Treat this organization as a professional ministry, " Not a business but a ministry" with high standards, strong morals, and top ideals. Every ministry, church, individual, business, that is successful learns to set a higher standard. If you want a shade tree mechanic, or a dirty hole in the wall shack cafe, then that is what you'll draw towards your outpost too. If you want the back side of nowhere rundown look of a church, then that's what you'll have. You must set a higher standard towards your upkeep as a outpost and yourself as a leader. What you do as a leader is how they see your whole outpost and the whole organization in general. They'll see it as a sub-par kids club, instead of a highly organized well run program ministry for boys. Royal Rangers has been the stepchild just too long and we have allowed this guilt to stay on our own shoulders. Our district a few years ago made our guest cabin out of a bunch of old wooden crates that was given to them. It was better than what we had for years, but it still wasn't what needed to be done. I complained to the district at our district council. "Why is it that Royal Rangers always gets the leftovers?" "We are using trash and allowing our Boys be in trash, WHY?" Of course my response on that council floor wasn't well received. But many things have changed with our stand towards being professional looking, even towards our own supporters, the district. They need to look at this ministry as a dynamic boys Christian program. Why is it that the youth group, women's ministry, or other programs get all the funds? I know why, it is because they are out there tooting their own horns and saying; "Look at me!! Look at me!! We are looking and doing good!!." And most likely they are. Well, we're doing good too, but lets make sure when we do shout towards our fellow brothers, that they see us in a different light. (uniform) Professional looking in our Sunday best to impress the rest. It's a shame we have play politics with our own people, but I know for a fact your pastor plays it every weekend on Sundays. Wearing the right uniform for all to see. I know if he showed up regularly just wearing blue jeans, that finally someone would say something, if not for long he wouldn't have a position. But It's sad to say , that that many see, from the pastors up to the district levels in many Outpost they are living, working, not wearing uniforms and it's nothing but a sub-par boys program. You get an Evangelist or Christian music group looking sub-par and they won't have a ministry long, even if they do sound good. We are in this great ministry to be the best, act the best, do the best and dress the best. Lets take our ministry out of the old worn out wooden crates and build a new one for God. Revamp, cleanup, revise, renew your vision for boys. Start by looking the part, around your constituents, partners, the world, and your boys. God Bless Pastor Jeff, Love you guys and praying for you always. PS Don't miss the ( "YOU MAKE THE UNIFORM PART 2" ) A few tips about looking sharp and staying sharp looking. I hope you'll enjoy it. |
