The New Five Pillars of Church
OK. Half time and I thought it be a good idea to just lay it in digital ink where our church is heading. Basically, the refined five pillars are now
1. worship
2. warmth
3. watchfulness
4. work
5. witness
It was a session of questions and answers really, as the Pastors spell out in greater details what each of the above meant. More "interest group" SFs will soon form to blanket the whole church, in attempt to cater to more folks' needs. Some fear a poor direction of such groups may simply lead to interest-oriented activities while some believe such comprehensive "coverage" will meet these people's need. Again, its a tussle between committment level among church-goers. Some believe committments come with catering to the more "interesting" needs of congregation while some believe the "christian migrants" (from other churches) should properly understand and take up church membership systematically to gain growing committed pool of workers.
All said, Pastor Mike/Paul hit a very fundamental truth - our motive is to always be focused in building relationship wherever we may be, and not dogmatic programs and formal agenda to increase church statistics. That, I totally agree.
According to statistics, we have more inter-church migrants in 2006, accounting for more than 60% of the growth, meaning we have many "believers" added into our midst and much less true converts. This trend will only grow.
Goal of SF again? Our SF's is to witness to the lost, identify the true gifts in each believing member and liberate them into physical, spiritual efforts and areas of service in our church that will advance the kingdom of God in our vicinity.