So, at Congress Street we're taking a fresh new approach to evangelism. We're valuing the stories and the light that others have to contribute to their society, community, and maybe even Jesus and the church in significant and powerful ways. In a three-week reflection series, we're diving into more specifics, but I have heard from some that they desire more interaction and feedback.
This blog post is being set-up just for this. Please feel free to share your recent experiences in sharing your faith or journey story; post questions about relational evangelism; or, perhaps, just receive some positive feedback and encouragement from your peers about what this CAN look like as we continue as evolving followers of Jesus for the transformation of the world!
Remember: THE WORLD IS NOT DARK! You do not necessarily have the "light" that every one else needs to be judged to be lacking. Instead, every one has light within them that needs hope and encouragement -- and the world needs every one's light to shine brightly!
2 comments:
I've had several conversations with people who say, "Yes, I need start going to church again", usually followed by a change in subject. It's meant to be a termination sentence, as in, "I'm not going to discuss this anymore, but I'm not going to be rude and tell you that."
I don't have a way to get pass that point, either in the present conversation or future ones. I don't want to guilt anyone into coming to church; that would be punishment for everyone. But I do want to share why I go to church and what it has done for me--that's part of my journey story. It's hard to bring the topic up again & again, especially when the response is the same. Does one just let it go?
I have friends who are peripherally involved in small groups at Cong. St. They are very resistant to coming on Sunday mornings, yet the low attendance at that time is what has been highlighted. Does one simply nurture the involvement these people do have & not expect more, or is there a way to increase their involvement? The fear is that people will withdraw entirely if they are pressed for more. It seems I walk a very fine line with my friends & neighbors, that people are especially sensitive when it comes to church attendance. I don't want to be a cattle prod, nor do I want to be too casual. Suggestions?
First of all, every one and every situation is going to be different, but here's my thoughts from you share here:
After you get the "Yes, I need to start going to church again." Ask, "What's preventing you?" There's usually something that's a stumbling block for them and they need to know you'll be open and OKAY with their situation. Offering your own vulnerability at this point is a good possibility too. Another scenario is to offer something like: "I have struggled with______ it's been in the community of faith I have found ___________. Maybe Congress St. isn't the right place for you; however, I know you well enough to think there is probably something offered via CSUMC where you'll resonate and find deeper connection...."
Finally, whereas the main goal for the relational evangelism series is, indeed, to get people invited and committed to coming to worship on June 22 for the kick-off of the mini-series on "Being Your Whole You," this is not the only place to connect with Congress St. There are ways to connect and be supportive of its mission and ministries without being in worship every single Sunday. I find it interesting that people would site "low attendance" as their reason for not attending. My inner smartass retorts: "Well, it's a good thing only about 65 people hold that attitude; otherwise, we'd be averaging 135 a week!"
Thank you for sharing your questions and situations you're wrestling with. It's comforting and energizing to see people committed to the mission of the church!
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