There is nothing more wonderful in the local church than seeing someone discover that they have a gift or ability they never suspected was there. Over the years I have seen so many people of all ages literally blossom as they were encouraged to use and develop the gifts God had given them in the safe setting of the church community. I say blossom because it is a life-giving thing, not a heavy duty or burden. Frederick Buechner defines calling as something that emerges from our joy, our passion - "calling", he says, "is where your deep joy meets the deep need of the world".
Sadly, in the church we have often settled for less. We have persuaded ourselves that ministry is the work of the minister, when in reality we are all invited to exercise ministry in different forms. In the church where I grew up, the printed church notices every Sunday included the following: "Minister: All members; Assistant Pastor: Rev ..." :)
Where is your deep joy leading you? In the Staying Connected, there is a list of the members of our Exec and each person has a portfolio next to their name (Worship, Youth & Children, Mission, Finance, Fellowship, Communication, Pastoral Care, Property, Discipleship). We want to gather small teams of people around each of these key areas and draw all of our people into ministry in this way. Take the plunge and get in touch with an Exec member or the office - you have a gift to share!
Sadly, in the church we have often settled for less. We have persuaded ourselves that ministry is the work of the minister, when in reality we are all invited to exercise ministry in different forms. In the church where I grew up, the printed church notices every Sunday included the following: "Minister: All members; Assistant Pastor: Rev ..." :)
Where is your deep joy leading you? In the Staying Connected, there is a list of the members of our Exec and each person has a portfolio next to their name (Worship, Youth & Children, Mission, Finance, Fellowship, Communication, Pastoral Care, Property, Discipleship). We want to gather small teams of people around each of these key areas and draw all of our people into ministry in this way. Take the plunge and get in touch with an Exec member or the office - you have a gift to share!