So I just finished reading my Light & Life. It's a monthly magazine published by the Free Methodist Church. And I came across an article titled "A Casual Place for a Serious Faith". It's the story of a small Free Methodist Church in New York state which had been told by a consultant they were perfectly positioned for the 1950's. Unfortunately that was 2005. As years went by nothing changed, until the Genesis Annual Conference stepped in. The sign was removed, and the pews and pulpit sold. Only eighteen members remained. But this is the story of their resurrection, not their death.
The church suspended morning worship. Period. For several months members began visiting other churches within their community. Sunday nights they would meet in the church basement and talk about their experiences. The results were astounding. The sanctuary was redesigned to suit modern worship styles; they changed their name to Open Arms Community Church; they adopted a vision statement: A Casual Place for a Serious Faith. But Pastor Jonathan Hunt said "the biggest changes were in us: in our attitudes and prayer life."
They aren't a mega church any measurement. They average something over one hundred. But what a leap of faith, to risk everything for the Kingdom. I wonder what might happen if I were more willing to take these risks. If I were to ask, "What might God do if. . . . "
Way to go brothers! Way to go sisters! And praise to our Abba Father who is the giver of all good gifts!
The church suspended morning worship. Period. For several months members began visiting other churches within their community. Sunday nights they would meet in the church basement and talk about their experiences. The results were astounding. The sanctuary was redesigned to suit modern worship styles; they changed their name to Open Arms Community Church; they adopted a vision statement: A Casual Place for a Serious Faith. But Pastor Jonathan Hunt said "the biggest changes were in us: in our attitudes and prayer life."
They aren't a mega church any measurement. They average something over one hundred. But what a leap of faith, to risk everything for the Kingdom. I wonder what might happen if I were more willing to take these risks. If I were to ask, "What might God do if. . . . "
Way to go brothers! Way to go sisters! And praise to our Abba Father who is the giver of all good gifts!
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