MRI part 3

We have talked about the MRI in the last two Messenger editions.  We continue with this edition also. In the report of the MRI Visitation Team from the District (available in the lobby of the Church) there were five prescriptions.  We have discussed most of them so far.

The last prescription was for the congregation to find and hire an “Assimilation Director.”  Such things were not common in the Synod at the time, and it was hard to find one that had a job description which would fit our congregation. But God provided an opportunity for us to engage Brad Aldrich, a church planter, with experience in evangelism and outreach. We changed the name of the position to “Assimilation Facilitator” to emphasize the “behind the scenes” nature of the job we wanted done.  

Brad’s job is to work with people to promote connectedness within and outside of the congregation.  He visited various groups in the congregation on an informal basis to introduce his work.  He has been working with me particularly to help the elders establish greater connectedness with members and enlist their help in keeping connections with those who may not be as active as we would desire. 

We realize that it takes about seven points of connection to keep people active and interested in a congregation. 

Brad has worked with youth from 6^th grade on. In addition to having an after school Bible class for the 6^th  grade girls last year, some of the other things he has done with them have been to produce instructional videos for use in confirmation classes and teaching how to initiate spiritual conversations, how to pray the Psalms, and how to engage in a prayer walk. 

It is interesting and encouraging to see young people able to speak of their faith in a much easier manner once they get past those initial hurdles.  Brad has also worked with high school students to engage them with campus ministries before they even arrive at college.  Through electronic means he has made contact with many confirmands that have not been active, but still consider themselves to be part of the congregation.  Brad has been very helpful with the home groups, encouraging them to grow, helping to grow new leaders and facilitate more groups. He is an asset to the congregation whose work and influence will bear fruit for many years.  

More on MRI  next month.

Confirmation classes for youth and adults begin this month.  PRAY FOR THEM. 

Blessed Fall!