Dear Google Calendar,

This just isn't working out between us.  I understand that your XML feed doesn't include timezone information, but that doesn't help my viewers.  They click on an event, and see the wrong time.  I'm sorry, but I'm going to have to move on, and look elsewhere.  Maybe another time.

Sincerely,

stmarkella.org

Alright, the latest and greatest things on the internet are interactive online communities.  People can post comments on articles.  They can chat in forums, and network together online.  They can create groups, post images, and hang out together.  This sense of connectedness is what I'm trying to bring to our Church's website.   

This is not only meant as a playpen for the younger members of our church.  I envision this website becoming the first step in a new way of doing business.  Imagine a parish council member maintaining a blog about the decisions that go into the church.  Pews or chairs?  Red or blue carpet?  Feedback could be instant, and a detailed discussion (or flame war) could enfold outside of the time constraints of a general assembly.  The text of sermons can be placed online, and our Priest can maintain a blog himself.  He can respond to online questions, and lead theological discussions.

Anyway, I hope that everyone will support this internet effort.  It may take some work to get it off the ground, but I think that in the end, it will be worth it.