Forward Together Update - July 31, 2011

 

Dear church family,

Last fall, we launched the Forward Together faith initiative to clarify our calling as a church, define excellence in our areas of focus, and build a forward-looking, three-year ministry plan.  Emmanuel embraced its calling through personal commitment and generous financial support.  For the first time in several years, Emmanuel met its revenue goals for the fiscal year ending June 30, 2011!  This level of congregational support has enabled us to focus our efforts on what matters most- helping people know and become more like Jesus.

There are ten elements to our 2011-2013 ministry plan.  Here are a few brief, notable updates on our progress to date:

1.  Address building maintenance needs to minimize worship distractions

• We are soliciting bids for parking lot resurfacing and curb repair to minimize distractions for congregants and visitors as they come for worship.

2.  Implement strategies to draw people together in congregational worship areas

• The Close Encounters Ministry Team has been established to create a warm, welcoming atmosphere during services.  Our youth have organized a welcome team to connect with similarly aged students.  We want people to experience Emmanuel as a great place to connect and grow.

3.  Install building signage that is descriptive of our values and service offerings

• Parking lot banners have been installed to provide a welcoming atmosphere. Negotiations with the city on new signage are ongoing.  We are considering new, more descriptive lettering on current signage as an interim step.

4.  Establish a comprehensive communications strategy to share our vision and reach others

• Customized mailings are sent monthly to 100 new movers residing closest to the church welcoming them to the community and inviting them to visit.  A monthly newsletter has been established to focus and improve communications.  The www.Godfor.us website is continuously being improved.  Youth communication channels have been enhanced to provide real time programming information and, through social media, create community.

5.  Invest additional resources to enhance ministry offerings for children and youth

• Vacation Bible School 2011 included new activities designed to reach children including a special appearance by KC Wolf who shared his testimony with the children.  Feedback on the impact of this year’s VBS events on the lives of children was extremely positive!  Youth have established a comprehensive plan to help students connect and grow.

6.  Conduct church-wide community outreach projects

• Established a strategic partnership with Brookridge Elementary School to help needy children in our community and demonstrate God’s love.

7.  Increase partnerships with community organizations

• Cultivated active partnerships with a wide range of community organizations including YMCA, Bible Study Fellowship, Brighton Academy, Operation Christmas Child, Brookridge Homeowner’s Association, Mission Adelante, House of Hope (girls home), Delmar Gardens, Gideon’s, Midwest Parent Educators, and the Boy Scouts of America.

8.  Facilitate increased personal engagement in international mission opportunities

• Youth have initiated a new partnership with the Global Orphan Project, an organization that provides culturally-relevant, Christ-centered orphan care in Haiti.  Additionally, a team from EBC traveled to Cuba in June to help new believers learn to grow in their faith, encourage key disciple-makers, and continue mentoring a sister church taking bold steps to reaching their community with the Gospel. 

9.  Equip congregants to find their place of service

• Two sermon series on spiritual gifts and spiritual leadership are planned for Fall 2011 to help congregants discover and put to use their talents, gifts, and abilities.  Additionally, a Sunday morning class will be offered in July focused on helping people find their unique design and purpose in life.

10.  Finalize permanent music minister position(s) to champion our worship through music

• Actively interviewing music minister candidates to lead music during the 11 a.m. worship service.  Hired a worship intern to assist with the youth music ministry and the 9:30 a.m. worship service music.  

We are excited about the ways God is using our body to impact people’s lives for the better in our community and across the world.  Thank you for your personal and financial commitment to Emmanuel through Forward Together. 
 

 Forward Together Follow-Through Team