I have been assigned to a church in Maine’s largest city. The church has no congregation which does not concern me much. I hope to make the church a community Center church and I believe through caring, sharing ministries there will be those who want a spiritual core for themselves.

It’s what I learned on a trip to Kosova ten years ago, watching how we start our ministry in the field, move there, live there, love the people there, help them as they need help, listen to their stories. Then, and only then, will there develop study groups, worship times and the development of spiritual walking to reach others.

Why am I writing if I already get this? I am concerned lest my apparent assurance is mistaken. Some leaders who watch want a core group first, studying and organizing to support the church and the pastor, then eventually offering an activity or two.
While I don’t disagree on that as a comfortable start and a wise option, I would like to know if you or anyone reading this has successful experience to support an alternative plan?

I believe out of our community events and activities will come those who want to worship together. That would grow a church of people who already know how to continue the process and reach out to others.

How likely is this plan to fail or succeed? There’s no significant money in this kind of start-up and there is no one to tell me how it may turn out on the other side. All I know is this seems to be the way Jesus would do it. It doesn’t feel right to do it the historically normal way.

My convictions lead me down this path. I just don’t like the thought of convincing so many to let me do it this way and then facing a dire result in another year. Do you know where something like this has been tried stateside and it produced believers, disciples and witnesses?
Thanks,
PG

Jonathan