Messiah’s ministry expansion plans mark an exciting new chapter in our life together. Not surprisingly, our Outreach initiatives will play an important role.
Are you ready?
You might be surprised, but we are happy to report that Outreach at Messiah is alive and active! As co-chairs of the Board of Outreach, we look forward to building on some important, ongoing initiatives and adding others the congregation is passionate about.
First, a little background. What is Outreach? And what is Intentionally Faithful about?
Outreach is our collective effort to look beyond ourselves to the people who live, work and play in the community around us and to share Jesus’ love with them. We are encouraged to do this individually and corporately, as it aligns with our Mission Statement to “Look up, Look around, and Look outward!
Intentionally Faithful (aka “IF”) is a five-part initiative begun in 2019 to enable Outreach. Based on Rev. Greg Finke’s book and training, Joining Jesus on His Mission, IF prepared many in the congregation to look outward and share Jesus with their neighbors, families, friends, and co-workers.
COVID gave us a pause, but IF continues to be the engine for Outreach in the following ways:
…During meetings of various ministry groups and at worship services, members Share their experiences in joining Jesus on His mission.
…We offer active Digital Engagement platforms where we and others can worship and share.
…We are preparing to launch a new Each One, Reach One plan to engage with unchurched friends during December.
…Our Act of Kindness team keeps us focused on kindness, especially with events for the community, the homeless, and our Preschool.
…We have many examples of groups Building Relationships in the community, e.g. VBS, Man2Man, Threads of Love, Braille, Ascension soup kitchen volunteers, etc.
What can you do to be ready to do your part in Outreach?
- Grab one of Greg Finke’s books at church and brush up on the basics.
- Recognize that ALL of us are involved in Outreach, not just a committee.
- Look for a way to support our IF culture with your time and efforts.
And thanks to those who have stayed the course and are engaged with IF now! Look for more information in the weeks and months ahead.
– by co-chairs Karen Fabean and Dave Johanson, Board of Outreach
