By Ruth Fletcher, Regional Minister, Montana Region, Christian Church (Disciples of Christ) How does a congregation become the kind of church needed in this rapidly changing world?
In the past, the small congregation of Henson Valley Christian Church in Ft. Washington, Md., could be characterized as inward looking and not closely connected to the changing community that surrounded them.
Greenfield Christian Church in Greenfield, Ind., has a “connector bridge,” an enclosed walkway designed to provide protection from the elements as people move from one area of the church to another.
According to Preston Adams, III, pastor of Amazing Grace Christian Church in Indianapolis, Ind., a shepherd has a heart for sheep and really understands that God mandates that we care for the flock.
Thanks to Indiana Regional Minister Rick Spleth for this perspective on Hope Partnership’s New Beginnings Assessment Service, which has helped hundreds of congregations make courageous decisions about their future direction.
