Every Wednesday morning, the pastoral and music staff meet together to review worship plans for the next Sunday and beyond. The expectation at First Baptist Church is worship that honors God is heartfelt, thoughtful and accomplished with joy and excellence.
Not too many weeks ago, the Expression of Faith through Worship Ministry Team responsible for the implementation and management of our worship met with Matthew Boulton, President of Christian Theological Seminary. We wanted to spend some time exploring how we might embrace the growing opportunity we have of becoming an increasingly multi-cultural congregation.
The excitement, enthusiasm and energy in the room was palpable.
We asked ourselves, “What is our vision (written in the form of a newspaper headline) for worship in three to five years?”
Responses suggested becoming …
- a one of a kind congregation reflecting the growing cultural and ethnic diversity reflected among our neighbors
- a place where Good News is embodied and expressed in different languages and worship experiences
- a laughing, serving and dancing congregation
- a place of hospitality and a sanctuary of peace
We also reflected on some of the gifts or assets our congregation has in capturing this vision.
Responses suggested…
- vibrant music and talented people
- openness to theological diversity
- open to growth and challenge
- thoughtful creative pastors
- lots of adult mentors and saints
- a great facility and location
- connection with our neighbors
- warm and friendly people
- caring for young people
- a deep love for God
When we discussed obstacles to this vision becoming a reality, we focused on the need for our congregation to get to know one another better in worship and beyond worship. We focused on learning how to better appreciate our cultural and ethnic diversity as we worship and on spending more quality time getting to know guest and member and friend alike. And we recognized that time to do so is always at a premium in people’s fast paced and hectic lives.
I would love to know what you think about these three questions. Send me an email. Give me a call. Catch me when you see me and let me know your thoughts. I look forward to hearing more from you.