Evangelism Committee Meeting – 8/18/11

Fr. Kline read Acts 15, and then opened with prayer. Acts 15 describes a turning point in the early Christian church a leaders in Jerusalem made a very intentional decision to become more missional.

Marilyn Browne then gave a full report on the Acts 15 program developed over the past several years by Stephen Ministries, St. Louis.  She and Janice Ashmore had attended at presentation of the program in Dallas by Stephen Ministry St. Louis management. The program has been “pilot tested “in Chicago area Lutheran churches. Testimonials from these churches are glowing.

Acts 15 is a complete system for growing and deepening the missional power of congregations.  It combines three vital elements:

• Leadership Development. Acts 15 thoroughly equips an Acts 15 Team to successfully lead the congregation to be more missional. Trainers can also use Acts 15 resources to equip other leaders in the congregation.
• Spiritual Growth and Renewal. Acts 15 provides practical resources and an intentional plan congregations can use to help members grow spiritually, use their gifts in meaningful mi nistry, and live as missionary Christians on a daily basis.
• Best Missional Practices. Acts 15 includes a ministry toolbox filled with well researched proven ideas and resources to help congregations reach in and reach out more effectively. Congregations can choose from and adapt their best practices to achieve key ministry goals and be as missional as possible.

It is recommended that four members, including the Rector attend the first training week scheduled for October, 2012. Perhaps our parish can send as few as three including the Rector. A full discussion ensued during which several mentioned the dangers of making changes in this conservative parish. These concerns were acknowledged. The committee unanimously agreed that Marilyn Browne should present the Acts 15 program to the Vestry in October

Fr. Kline then asked for any feedback from the personal “we care” letters sent to members of the Parish last month. Several on the committee recounted favorable feedback received.

Phil has made some progress on outside “theme” banners.

The Alpha National Conference on October 14-15 will be attended by several committee members. The conference is at Irving Bible Church, Irving.

Fr. Kline reported that the prayer chain ministry is ready to start in September or October.  The same is true for the start- up of small groups under Jon and Marilyn Browne.

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