What is the Church? A Group of Connected People
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By Merrie Roberts • First Baptist Church, Warm Springs, Ga
hen first approached about creating a ministry for our 20 and 30” somethings,” I was intimidated. At 62, how could I hope to create a program to entice and inform? This is my story.
I realized my first mistake was in believing this initiative was about me. I heard God’s voice reminding me that these Millennials were his children and securing them in the body of Christ his act of love. This new work would be a permanent addition to the life of our church no matter how many participants we might have because it was necessary and proper. When I understood my attempt at ministry to be an ongoing work of obedience, I found my confidence. The following steps unfolded through God’s leadership and our pastor, Dr. Bob Patterson’s vision. • Take time to identify those in your church and larger community who need this ministry. • Provide the opportunity to connect in many venues…Facebook, PowerPoint presentations, calls, texts, and invitations. • Begin your format with fellowship. We held two causal suppers the first month with no attempt to further structure the relationships. Bonds and friendships formed. • Include participants in discussions on curriculum for Bible study, meeting times, and other concerns. We decided to meet for Bible Study at the traditional Sunday morning hour despite other suggestions so we might have access to children’s programs, and also to strongly connect with the church family as a whole. • Find a comfort level between expectation and understanding for your participants. It is not wrong to share accountability with each other, nor is it wrong to demonstrate understanding for the challenges each person faces weekly. • Be consistent regardless of participation. These ministry members depend on our faithfulness as they form their family and faith in the 21 st century. • Last, do not fall prey to the bullying nature of our current culture. Christian leaders do not need to agonize over looking relevant or in tune with culture. Rather, apply a sincere and natural respect for the world our Millennials face each day, and then take heart that the Holy Spirit knows all too well how to woo God’s Beloved with truth and love.
“do not fall prey to the bullying nature of our current culture.”
Our Connections Ministry has doubled in size over the last five months. This group has taken responsibility for much of the programming and leadership while I provide teaching, some oversight, and an occasional opinion! These amazing men and women are making their own gifts and uniqueness, as well as their faith, felt in our fellowship. Surely we are one step closer to the church of God’s heart. Merrie Roberts is an ordained Baptist minister serving First Baptist Church, Warm Springs, as Associate Pastor. Her ministry emphases include Spiritual Formation, Prayer, and the Connections Ministry. Her blog, “Anam Cara,” can be viewed at merrieroberts@wordpress.com . Editors Note : The phrase “the church” to the 20‐30 year old individuals brings to mind a very different image than it does for the baby boomers. The Connections Ministry is exposing this age group to the real “church!” Thanks Merrie, for being courageous and stepping outside your comfort zone.
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