A perspective for local denominational organizations/judicatories on how they best empower their churches to serve from the base of their local context.
Associations are the relational organisms of our Baptist movement. State/regional and national conventions are the organizations. We need more leadership from the grassroots where the voice of the Holy Spirit is clearer.
Institutional ministries (hospitals, universities, child welfare, senior living) affiliated with the state convention must also consider what is next in their ministry space. Perhaps an opportunity for collaboration.
Relationships with churches-in-association by these entities in ways that primarily empower the ministry of congregations would be a great partnership. It would be obvious through this that congregational members would learn about, appreciate, and likely support the work of these institutional ministries. For example, child welfare and senior living had help congregations know how to help parents engage in spiritual and other life development of children. Senior living can help congregations understand life stage ministries with senior. Do not connect with congregations for what they can do for you, but what you can do for them, and then they will assist you with what you do.
Exactly. We lead with "how can we serve you?" In a nutshell we position Buckner to help churches grow by providing practical experiences for disciples to live out their faith. Growth is defined as spiritual maturity and following the example of Jesus to serve vulnerable children, families, and seniors. Once we provide a value-added experience, reciprocal benefit may follow and may not. The former rather than the latter is our priority.
Leading a Faith-based Non-profit to serve vulnerable children, families, and seniors.
Excellent notion of the association serving as the "What's Next" thought leader for communities.
Associations are the relational organisms of our Baptist movement. State/regional and national conventions are the organizations. We need more leadership from the grassroots where the voice of the Holy Spirit is clearer.
Institutional ministries (hospitals, universities, child welfare, senior living) affiliated with the state convention must also consider what is next in their ministry space. Perhaps an opportunity for collaboration.
Relationships with churches-in-association by these entities in ways that primarily empower the ministry of congregations would be a great partnership. It would be obvious through this that congregational members would learn about, appreciate, and likely support the work of these institutional ministries. For example, child welfare and senior living had help congregations know how to help parents engage in spiritual and other life development of children. Senior living can help congregations understand life stage ministries with senior. Do not connect with congregations for what they can do for you, but what you can do for them, and then they will assist you with what you do.
Exactly. We lead with "how can we serve you?" In a nutshell we position Buckner to help churches grow by providing practical experiences for disciples to live out their faith. Growth is defined as spiritual maturity and following the example of Jesus to serve vulnerable children, families, and seniors. Once we provide a value-added experience, reciprocal benefit may follow and may not. The former rather than the latter is our priority.