A Word From Our Executive Minister

David Martin, MCEC

 

Jesus’ public ministry began with a call to repentance and an invitation to be alert for the presence of God’s kingdom. He believed that God’s people could have a profound impact on their world if they chose to live in faithful obedience to God’s vision for justice and peace. His vision and leadership captured the imagination of many of His people and they responded by aligning themselves with God’s purposes in the world. The success of Jesus’ ministry was also directly related to the leadership that He called and nurtured. The twelve disciples were instrumental in ultimately carrying out His mission and spreading the Christian faith.

Leadership is as important to God’s mission in the world today as it was in Jesus’ time. It is foundational to the health and success of the church. Forming Leaders for God’s Mission, the theme of this year’s Annual Church Gathering, is critically important for each of our congregations and for us as an Area Church.

Our worship sessions and delegate discernment times will invite us to reflect on how we support the Spirit in forming leadership that will help the church meet the challenges it faces.

  • How can congregations nurture the emergence of leaders?
  • What habits, practices, and teachings will encourage our people to respond to God’s call to share their gifts of leadership in the church?

Come prepared to share your wisdom about how we can help individuals discern their call to leadership, and boldly use their gifts in the church’s ministries.

I believe that more than ever, God is calling us to actively reach out to our communities with the peace of Jesus Christ. Our churches are hospitable and welcoming but perhaps God is calling us to take the next step and reach out beyond the walls of the church to more actively engage our local communities. In order to do this well, we will want to discern carefully the kind of leadership that is needed for such a time as this. Please come and join this important conversation and share your wisdom. The future of the church may depend on it.