Holy Spirit's Guidance and Support Necessary for Vital Church

EWhen the Vital Church Initiative Implementation team met with ministry coach Naomi Garcia in August, Garcia asked the team to comment on the progress of implementing the prescriptions outlined by the VCI consultation (see the document in the upper right hand of this blog page for more details about prescriptions).

The team gave Garcia an optimistic report of progress in all areas. Worship has been enhanced and Brighton First is launching a new disciple-making program in the fall. The Administrative Board will adopt a 2-year church strategic plan in September. Garcia observed that Brighton First is not only following the directive of the VCI prescriptions, but leaning on the guidance of the Holy Spirit.

This is an observation that I felt needed reporting. Often, we get so caught up in the program and the detail, in goal-setting, promoting, recruiting and evaluating, that we forget to note the presence of the Holy Spirit in what we do. If our ministry truly honors God and advances the good news of Jesus Christ, the Holy Spirit will infuse it.

Recently I came across an image that reflected the importance of the Holy Spirit in the work of the church. The Holy Spirit is to the church is like microbes are to the human body!

I've been reading Ed Yong's newly released book I Contain Multitudes: The Microbes within Us and a Grander View of Life. Yong writes "The latest estimates suggest that we have around 30 trillion human cells and 39 trillion microbial ones - a roughly even split. Even these numbers are inexact, but that does not matter: by any reckoning, we contain multitudes."

Yong speculated that if a human body completely disappeared, if every cell in the body was suddenly gone, a shimmer of archaea, bacteria and eukaryotes, would remain. The "microbiome" of every human body weighs a few pounds, exists on the bodies external surfaces and internally, as well.

When in balance, our relationship with the microbes that inhabit our bodies is one of mutual support. In fact, without the assistance of microbes, essential functions of our bodies would be diminished. 

This description of unseen and important life within us reminds me of the work of the Holy Spirit. For the Body of Christ, the church, the Holy Spirit is essential to health, growth and direction.  Jesus promised that he would send the Holy Spirit to empower, guide and equip. Without reliance and trust on God's Spirit the church can lose direction.

I do believe that when a church is moving as a vital force in the world that God is like the "shimmer" of spirit that infuses the ministry.

Holy Spirit's Guidance and Support Necessary for Vital Church

EWhen the Vital Church Initiative Implementation team met with ministry coach Naomi Garcia in August, Garcia asked the team to comment on the progress of implementing the prescriptions outlined by the VCI consultation (see the document in the upper right hand of this blog page for more details about prescriptions).

The team gave Garcia an optimistic report of progress in all areas. Worship has been enhanced and Brighton First is launching a new disciple-making program in the fall. The Administrative Board will adopt a 2-year church strategic plan in September. Garcia observed that Brighton First is not only following the directive of the VCI prescriptions, but leaning on the guidance of the Holy Spirit.

This is an observation that I felt needed reporting. Often, we get so caught up in the program and the detail, in goal-setting, promoting, recruiting and evaluating, that we forget to note the presence of the Holy Spirit in what we do. If our ministry truly honors God and advances the good news of Jesus Christ, the Holy Spirit will infuse it.

Recently I came across an image that reflected the importance of the Holy Spirit in the work of the church. The Holy Spirit is to the church is like microbes are to the human body!

I've been reading Ed Yong's newly released book I Contain Multitudes: The Microbes within Us and a Grander View of Life. Yong writes "The latest estimates suggest that we have around 30 trillion human cells and 39 trillion microbial ones - a roughly even split. Even these numbers are inexact, but that does not matter: by any reckoning, we contain multitudes."

Yong speculated that if a human body completely disappeared, if every cell in the body was suddenly gone, a shimmer of archaea, bacteria and eukaryotes, would remain. The "microbiome" of every human body weighs a few pounds, exists on the bodies external surfaces and internally, as well.

When in balance, our relationship with the microbes that inhabit our bodies is one of mutual support. In fact, without the assistance of microbes, essential functions of our bodies would be diminished. 

This description of unseen and important life within us reminds me of the work of the Holy Spirit. For the Body of Christ, the church, the Holy Spirit is essential to health, growth and direction.  Jesus promised that he would send the Holy Spirit to empower, guide and equip. Without reliance and trust on God's Spirit the church can lose direction.

I do believe that when a church is moving as a vital force in the world that God is like the "shimmer" of spirit that infuses the ministry.

Brighton First Introduces Short-term, Introductory Music Experiences

Barb Terry directs an impromptu congregationa
choir in the "Hallelujah Chorus" on Easter morning.l

Band Led Worship @ 11:00
Newly formed band offers a "preview worship" 

"I'd love to sing in the choir, but I can't commit to rehearsal every week." "I'm interested in learning to play hand bells, but it must take years to learn." "I played in a band when I was younger, but I haven't played in years!" "There is no way that I can commit to music ministry every Sunday."

These are some of the comments offered by Brighton First congregation members about joining in the music ministry at Brighton First. Many people have a heart for music, but due to time constraints and lack of formal training decline to participate in the musical programs at Brighton First. Others had training or experience years ago as vocalists and/or instrumentalists, and they are hesitant to return to music performance.

We believe, at Brighton First, that making music in fellowship with other Christians is a spiritual practice that opens us to God's grace. By offering the gift of music, we grow in discipleship for Jesus Christ and enhance worship for others.

This fall, Susan Snow, our music director has restructured our music program and now offers short term choir and hand bell opportunities. There will be two sessions for hand bell novices and the entire family is welcome to participate. All those who participate in short-term choir and hand bell sessions will have the opportunity to offer music in worship. In addition, Mike Tooman, leader for our band led worship service, welcomes people at all experience levels to join his music team. 

If you are new to the music program at Brighton First, consider choosing a choir or hand bell short-term experience. If you've wanted to sing or play in a praise band, Mike Tooman is putting together a large team of musicians to draw from for worship each week.

Through the Vital Church Initiative process, we have learned that maturing disciples are involved in worship and hospitality. They are open to and obeying Jesus and living in relationships with other Christians. Maturing disciples offer service and practice generosity. Offering music, both vocal and instrumental, to the glory of God, is a discipleship practice.

Brighton First Introduces Short-term, Introductory Music Experiences

Barb Terry directs an impromptu congregationa
choir in the "Hallelujah Chorus" on Easter morning.l

Band Led Worship @ 11:00
Newly formed band offers a "preview worship" 

"I'd love to sing in the choir, but I can't commit to rehearsal every week." "I'm interested in learning to play hand bells, but it must take years to learn." "I played in a band when I was younger, but I haven't played in years!" "There is no way that I can commit to music ministry every Sunday."

These are some of the comments offered by Brighton First congregation members about joining in the music ministry at Brighton First. Many people have a heart for music, but due to time constraints and lack of formal training decline to participate in the musical programs at Brighton First. Others had training or experience years ago as vocalists and/or instrumentalists, and they are hesitant to return to music performance.

We believe, at Brighton First, that making music in fellowship with other Christians is a spiritual practice that opens us to God's grace. By offering the gift of music, we grow in discipleship for Jesus Christ and enhance worship for others.

This fall, Susan Snow, our music director has restructured our music program and now offers short term choir and hand bell opportunities. There will be two sessions for hand bell novices and the entire family is welcome to participate. All those who participate in short-term choir and hand bell sessions will have the opportunity to offer music in worship. In addition, Mike Tooman, leader for our band led worship service, welcomes people at all experience levels to join his music team. 

If you are new to the music program at Brighton First, consider choosing a choir or hand bell short-term experience. If you've wanted to sing or play in a praise band, Mike Tooman is putting together a large team of musicians to draw from for worship each week.

Through the Vital Church Initiative process, we have learned that maturing disciples are involved in worship and hospitality. They are open to and obeying Jesus and living in relationships with other Christians. Maturing disciples offer service and practice generosity. Offering music, both vocal and instrumental, to the glory of God, is a discipleship practice.

Vital Church Initiative Implementation Team Assesses Progress

In April 2015, a team of Brighton First congregation members came together to oversee the implementation of the VCI Consultation prescriptions (see document link on this blog page), adopted by the congregation. After more than a year of consulting with church staff members and team leaders and meeting monthly, the Implementation Team assessed the church's progress at its August meeting.

The team was joined by Naomi Garcia, our church's "VCI Directive Coach". Garcia, a staff member for the West Michigan Conference of the United Methodist Church, asked two basic questions. First, how was the VCI Implementation Team and other church committees, boards and teams working together. She also asked how Implementation team members felt about progress in each area of the VCI prescriptions.

The team talked about progress and needed growth in the areas of hospitality, community outreach, worship, faith development, strategic planning, and leadership development. Brighton First opens a new worship service on September 11 and introduces new community outreach efforts in September and October. The Adult Faith Formation team introduces a new comprehensive program for disciple education and growth in September. The Administrative Board will adopt a 2-year strategic plan in September. The Hospitality Team is joining with many faithful volunteers to offer a warm welcome on Sunday mornings.

These combined efforts are moving Brighton First forward in its mission to help people Know God, Love God and Serve God. Ultimately, Brighton First is committed to making disciples for Jesus Christ.

There is, however, one challenging area of the Vital Church Initiative that is in its beginning stages. The alignment of church programs and ministries with the church's mission and vision will be the focal point of the VCI Implementation Team this fall. In order to use the church's resources most effectively, the congregation has agreed to an alignment of what we do with our purpose and our vision for the future. This means that some ministries and programs will continue, some will be modified and others will be celebrated and ended.

The authors of Simple Church: Returning to God's Process for Making Disciples, Thom Reiner and Eric Geiger, studied the difference between churches that are thriving and those that are anemic and struggling. They came to the conclusion that churches that carefully choose how they will accomplish their mission and avoid putting resources into programming that does not ultimately grow disciples for Jesus Christ, are more likely to thrive. Reiner and Geiger write, "Churches with a simple process for reaching and maturing people are expanding the kingdom. Church leaders who have designed a simple biblical process to make disciples are effectively advancing the movement of the gospel. Simple churches are making a big impact."

While there are very good reasons to align our church's ministries and programs with our mission and vision, it will be a difficult task. The VCI Implementation team committed over 16 months ago to leading Brighton First through this process and they will continue to seek the Holy Spirit's guidance in the months ahead.

Vital Church Initiative Implementation Team Assesses Progress

In April 2015, a team of Brighton First congregation members came together to oversee the implementation of the VCI Consultation prescriptions (see document link on this blog page), adopted by the congregation. After more than a year of consulting with church staff members and team leaders and meeting monthly, the Implementation Team assessed the church's progress at its August meeting.

The team was joined by Naomi Garcia, our church's "VCI Directive Coach". Garcia, a staff member for the West Michigan Conference of the United Methodist Church, asked two basic questions. First, how was the VCI Implementation Team and other church committees, boards and teams working together. She also asked how Implementation team members felt about progress in each area of the VCI prescriptions.

The team talked about progress and needed growth in the areas of hospitality, community outreach, worship, faith development, strategic planning, and leadership development. Brighton First opens a new worship service on September 11 and introduces new community outreach efforts in September and October. The Adult Faith Formation team introduces a new comprehensive program for disciple education and growth in September. The Administrative Board will adopt a 2-year strategic plan in September. The Hospitality Team is joining with many faithful volunteers to offer a warm welcome on Sunday mornings.

These combined efforts are moving Brighton First forward in its mission to help people Know God, Love God and Serve God. Ultimately, Brighton First is committed to making disciples for Jesus Christ.

There is, however, one challenging area of the Vital Church Initiative that is in its beginning stages. The alignment of church programs and ministries with the church's mission and vision will be the focal point of the VCI Implementation Team this fall. In order to use the church's resources most effectively, the congregation has agreed to an alignment of what we do with our purpose and our vision for the future. This means that some ministries and programs will continue, some will be modified and others will be celebrated and ended.

The authors of Simple Church: Returning to God's Process for Making Disciples, Thom Reiner and Eric Geiger, studied the difference between churches that are thriving and those that are anemic and struggling. They came to the conclusion that churches that carefully choose how they will accomplish their mission and avoid putting resources into programming that does not ultimately grow disciples for Jesus Christ, are more likely to thrive. Reiner and Geiger write, "Churches with a simple process for reaching and maturing people are expanding the kingdom. Church leaders who have designed a simple biblical process to make disciples are effectively advancing the movement of the gospel. Simple churches are making a big impact."

While there are very good reasons to align our church's ministries and programs with our mission and vision, it will be a difficult task. The VCI Implementation team committed over 16 months ago to leading Brighton First through this process and they will continue to seek the Holy Spirit's guidance in the months ahead.

Brighton First Honors Community Educators on October 9

On Sunday, October 9, Brighton First will recognize and honor community educators. We will invite teachers and administrators from area schools and encouraging congregation members to invite educators they know. During worship we will recognize educators and pray for them and their important work. We will also host an educators' breakfast. In the month of September we will collect classroom supplies that we will make available to educators on October 9.

There will be more information available in the church newsletter, the website, Facebook, the church bulletin and in the Community Room in August and September. Susan Snow, Director of Music, is heading this project. Please contact her for more information here.

In 2015, Brighton First made a commitment to follow the recommendations of the Vital Church Initiative Consultation Team (see full consultation report at the "documents" link found on the upper right corner of this blog page). Among the tasks listed in the report was the charge to host two community-wide events per year. These events serve several purposes. First, our church is able to honor or assist a group of people in our community. Second, our church becomes more connected and aware of the needs and gifts of our community. Third, people of the Brighton area are invited to come into relationship with our community of faith.

Inviting area educators to be honored goes toward fulfilling the mission of Brighton First to Know God, Love God and Serve God. We are offer the love of God and serve in the name of Christ as we honor and help others. We also give others the opportunity to know God through our outreach.

Brighton First Honors Community Educators on October 9

On Sunday, October 9, Brighton First will recognize and honor community educators. We will invite teachers and administrators from area schools and encouraging congregation members to invite educators they know. During worship we will recognize educators and pray for them and their important work. We will also host an educators' breakfast. In the month of September we will collect classroom supplies that we will make available to educators on October 9.

There will be more information available in the church newsletter, the website, Facebook, the church bulletin and in the Community Room in August and September. Susan Snow, Director of Music, is heading this project. Please contact her for more information here.

In 2015, Brighton First made a commitment to follow the recommendations of the Vital Church Initiative Consultation Team (see full consultation report at the "documents" link found on the upper right corner of this blog page). Among the tasks listed in the report was the charge to host two community-wide events per year. These events serve several purposes. First, our church is able to honor or assist a group of people in our community. Second, our church becomes more connected and aware of the needs and gifts of our community. Third, people of the Brighton area are invited to come into relationship with our community of faith.

Inviting area educators to be honored goes toward fulfilling the mission of Brighton First to Know God, Love God and Serve God. We are offer the love of God and serve in the name of Christ as we honor and help others. We also give others the opportunity to know God through our outreach.

Goal Setting and Evaluation Is Our Goal!

This week Bob Fuchs, Director of Discipleship, told me that he and Missy Setty, Director of Children's Ministries were discussing their goals for 2017. While this may seem like a typical conversation for church staff members, it actually indicates a change in the way of thinking for staff and leadership of Brighton First.

In 2015, when our church agreed to hire an outside consultant team to review our ministry, one of the concerns that the team expressed was our lack of direction and specific goals. At that time the staff and leadership worked faithfully to accomplish tasks and to create programming and events. And yet, there was no intentional effort to set specific goals for the ministries, to assess the accomplishment of those goals and to plan for the future based on results.

Thanks to the Vital Church Initiative Consultation and the recommendations that the consultation team brought to our church, we are working to be more intentional about setting measurable goals and using the desired results to measure the effectiveness of what we do. In addition, our goals are being informed by the mission and vision for our church.

In goal-setting training, leaders have heard that SMART goals the the most effective. Goals should be Specific, Measurable, Attainable, Relevant and Time-Bound. We've also determined that before goals are measured that it is important to know who the "stakeholders" are for a particular program, class or event. If we are assessing whether or not we have reached our goals, we need to ask the right people.

So for example, as we prepare to introduce our annual stewardship education program this fall, what are our specific goals and how will we know we've reached them? How do we know that we've made a measurable difference with our "stakeholders", congregation members? The same is true with programs like Vacation Bible School ("stakeholders" are children and parents) and Adult Small Groups (class members).

Tony Robbins, an author and motivational speaker writes, "Setting goals is the first step in turning the invisible into the visible." The practice of setting goals will allow us to move forward in effective ministry.

Goal Setting and Evaluation Is Our Goal!

This week Bob Fuchs, Director of Discipleship, told me that he and Missy Setty, Director of Children's Ministries were discussing their goals for 2017. While this may seem like a typical conversation for church staff members, it actually indicates a change in the way of thinking for staff and leadership of Brighton First.

In 2015, when our church agreed to hire an outside consultant team to review our ministry, one of the concerns that the team expressed was our lack of direction and specific goals. At that time the staff and leadership worked faithfully to accomplish tasks and to create programming and events. And yet, there was no intentional effort to set specific goals for the ministries, to assess the accomplishment of those goals and to plan for the future based on results.

Thanks to the Vital Church Initiative Consultation and the recommendations that the consultation team brought to our church, we are working to be more intentional about setting measurable goals and using the desired results to measure the effectiveness of what we do. In addition, our goals are being informed by the mission and vision for our church.

In goal-setting training, leaders have heard that SMART goals the the most effective. Goals should be Specific, Measurable, Attainable, Relevant and Time-Bound. We've also determined that before goals are measured that it is important to know who the "stakeholders" are for a particular program, class or event. If we are assessing whether or not we have reached our goals, we need to ask the right people.

So for example, as we prepare to introduce our annual stewardship education program this fall, what are our specific goals and how will we know we've reached them? How do we know that we've made a measurable difference with our "stakeholders", congregation members? The same is true with programs like Vacation Bible School ("stakeholders" are children and parents) and Adult Small Groups (class members).

Tony Robbins, an author and motivational speaker writes, "Setting goals is the first step in turning the invisible into the visible." The practice of setting goals will allow us to move forward in effective ministry.

Brighton First Congregation Offers Gift for Future

In January 2012, our congregation determined to pay off our mortgage by 2022. Since then, we have significantly reduced the balance on the mortgage. We accomplished this by paying an extra $1,000 on the principal each month and with a “13^th" mortgage payment. Each year congregation members have given for an additional mortgage payment (currently $8,205). We continue to exceed our annual goal. We give thanks to God for the generosity of the congregation. We are on track to reach our debt retirement goal or even surpass it. 

This year, we designated June and July as “13^th Mortgage Payment Months”. In an effort to eliminate our mortgage as quickly as possible, we pay an additional $1,000 on the principle of the loan each month and we make a 13^th payment each year.

We give thanks to God for the generosity of the congregation. Our goal was $8,205 and the congregation gave $10,197.

All gifts given to this special project benefit our ministry today and are a gift to future generations. When reduced interest costs are calculated, every $100 given for debt retirement is like giving approximately $128. Participating in making the 13^thpayment is saying “yes” to the future ministry of First United Methodist Church. You are invited to mark your gifts, “Mortgage”.

This remarkable financial commitment is much like the commitment that the congregation of Brighton First has made to completing the Vital Church Initiative (VCI) Consultation prescriptions. Many of the changes we are making at Brighton First through VCI may take some time to bear fruit. Congregation members are committed to not only present ministry, but are investing in the future ministry of the church.

Brighton First Congregation Offers Gift for Future

In January 2012, our congregation determined to pay off our mortgage by 2022. Since then, we have significantly reduced the balance on the mortgage. We accomplished this by paying an extra $1,000 on the principal each month and with a “13^th" mortgage payment. Each year congregation members have given for an additional mortgage payment (currently $8,205). We continue to exceed our annual goal. We give thanks to God for the generosity of the congregation. We are on track to reach our debt retirement goal or even surpass it. 

This year, we designated June and July as “13^th Mortgage Payment Months”. In an effort to eliminate our mortgage as quickly as possible, we pay an additional $1,000 on the principle of the loan each month and we make a 13^th payment each year.

We give thanks to God for the generosity of the congregation. Our goal was $8,205 and the congregation gave $10,197.

All gifts given to this special project benefit our ministry today and are a gift to future generations. When reduced interest costs are calculated, every $100 given for debt retirement is like giving approximately $128. Participating in making the 13^th payment is saying “yes” to the future ministry of First United Methodist Church. You are invited to mark your gifts, “Mortgage”.

This remarkable financial commitment is much like the commitment that the congregation of Brighton First has made to completing the Vital Church Initiative (VCI) Consultation prescriptions. Many of the changes we are making at Brighton First through VCI may take some time to bear fruit. Congregation members are committed to not only present ministry, but are investing in the future ministry of the church.

Leadership Development at Brighton First

Growing vital churches make it a practice to be continually developing and equipping leaders. The Vital Church Initiative Consultation Report observed that while Brighton First is blessed with wonderful people resources in its congregation, there is little effort to develop, train, deploy and encourage leadership. The congregation agreed, by voting to implement the consultation report, to strengthen leadership development.

The first action was carried out in December 2015 and January 2016, when there was a church-wide call to take part in a Spiritual Gifts Inventory. The Inventory, authored by Rev. Loretta Job, provided many congregation members with insights into their spiritual gifts and how those gifts could be used in ministry within the church and beyond. Brighton First now has a database of church members' spiritual gifts, and leaders are able to use the information to seek out those who have gifts for particular areas of service. In addition, the database continues to grow as new church members are encouraged to complete the inventory. It is also the plan that there will be an annual call for those who have not completed the Spiritual Gifts Inventory to do so.

As another part of leadership development, the senior pastor is tasked with providing clear, measurable goals for church staff and all church leaders. This process has begun with the Staff-Parish working to clarify staff job descriptions. Once this process is done, goals based on the mission and vision of the church can be developed. Goals for boards and committees within the church are nearing completion with the development of a Strategic Plan that should be in place by the fall.

When Bob Fuchs was approved to become a candidate
for pastoral ministry, the congregation commissioned him
in prayer.

A third portion of leadership development includes training for leaders. Bob Fuchs, Director of Discipleship, is assisting me in developing an on-going training program for church leaders. The short-term class will include education about the mission and vision of Brighton First, development of individual spiritual practices, and training in leadership skills and intentional goal setting. Those who attend the class will receive a booklet that will answer basic administrative questions. The majority of class time will be used to develop skills for faith-filled leadership.

I have determined that while it is a joy for me to lead Bible studies and other topical classes, my teaching time must be spent in leadership development. I look forward to the first leadership course this semester and to implementing on-going training for our church leaders. Please keep leadership development at Brighton First in prayer.

Finally, the leaders of Brighton First are determined to continue as a church with a "culture of call". This means that we are not only committed to developing leadership for the local church, but for the greater church. Brighton First nurtures, encourages and equips those who are called into professional ministry. While this is not a stated goal of the Vital Church Initiative, we recognize the importance of this work and have included it in our Strategic Plan.

Leadership Development at Brighton First

Growing vital churches make it a practice to be continually developing and equipping leaders. The Vital Church Initiative Consultation Report observed that while Brighton First is blessed with wonderful people resources in its congregation, there is little effort to develop, train, deploy and encourage leadership. The congregation agreed, by voting to implement the consultation report, to strengthen leadership development.

The first action was carried out in December 2015 and January 2016, when there was a church-wide call to take part in a Spiritual Gifts Inventory. The Inventory, authored by Rev. Loretta Job, provided many congregation members with insights into their spiritual gifts and how those gifts could be used in ministry within the church and beyond. Brighton First now has a database of church members' spiritual gifts, and leaders are able to use the information to seek out those who have gifts for particular areas of service. In addition, the database continues to grow as new church members are encouraged to complete the inventory. It is also the plan that there will be an annual call for those who have not completed the Spiritual Gifts Inventory to do so.

As another part of leadership development, the senior pastor is tasked with providing clear, measurable goals for church staff and all church leaders. This process has begun with the Staff-Parish working to clarify staff job descriptions. Once this process is done, goals based on the mission and vision of the church can be developed. Goals for boards and committees within the church are nearing completion with the development of a Strategic Plan that should be in place by the fall.

When Bob Fuchs was approved to become a candidate
for pastoral ministry, the congregation commissioned him
in prayer.

A third portion of leadership development includes training for leaders. Bob Fuchs, Director of Discipleship, is assisting me in developing an on-going training program for church leaders. The short-term class will include education about the mission and vision of Brighton First, development of individual spiritual practices, and training in leadership skills and intentional goal setting. Those who attend the class will receive a booklet that will answer basic administrative questions. The majority of class time will be used to develop skills for faith-filled leadership.

I have determined that while it is a joy for me to lead Bible studies and other topical classes, my teaching time must be spent in leadership development. I look forward to the first leadership course this semester and to implementing on-going training for our church leaders. Please keep leadership development at Brighton First in prayer.

Finally, the leaders of Brighton First are determined to continue as a church with a "culture of call". This means that we are not only committed to developing leadership for the local church, but for the greater church. Brighton First nurtures, encourages and equips those who are called into professional ministry. While this is not a stated goal of the Vital Church Initiative, we recognize the importance of this work and have included it in our Strategic Plan.

Brighton First to Connect with Residents of Local Apartment Complex

Brighton First is taking on an exciting new ministry in community outreach. We are preparing to partner in ministry with the residents of a local apartment complex. Suzanne Everett and Myrna Henderson are leading efforts to connect our congregation to the residents of Brighton in a meaningful way. They are in conversation with apartment management and are planning an upcoming event for apartment residents.

In the coming weeks, the Community Outreach Team will offer more information about this relationship-building effort. Our goal is to be in intentional relationship with residents of Brighton, to learn their stories and to share our stories. It is our hope that this program will allow members of the congregation to use their gifts and skills to enhance the lives of community members.

Possible ministry opportunities include hosting meals, birthday parties, game nights and craft events. We envision developing listening, education, and transportation ministries, as well. It is also our goal to effectively link neighbors for mutual assistance.

This project began with a small group conversation about choosing a population in Brighton that our congregation could effectively serve. In a meeting with a representative from Livingston County's United Way, the group learned about the needs of specific groups in the county. They determined that by partnering with the residents of a local apartment complex, we could connect with our community.

The first step is to host focus groups with the apartment complex residents. The first event is being planned for late August. If you are interested in serving on the Community Outreach Team or in serving in this brand new ministry, please contact Pastor Sherry or Suzanne Everett.

This effort has been inspired by our Vital Church Initiative Commitment (see the VCI Consultation Report at the link in the upper right of this blog page). We celebrate that our congregation has the willingness and skills to be connected in this community in meaningful ways. Our commitment through VCI is to host relational events in our community.

Brighton First to Connect with Residents of Local Apartment Complex

Brighton First is taking on an exciting new ministry in community outreach. We are preparing to partner in ministry with the residents of a local apartment complex. Suzanne Everett and Myrna Henderson are leading efforts to connect our congregation to the residents of Brighton in a meaningful way. They are in conversation with apartment management and are planning an upcoming event for apartment residents.

In the coming weeks, the Community Outreach Team will offer more information about this relationship-building effort. Our goal is to be in intentional relationship with residents of Brighton, to learn their stories and to share our stories. It is our hope that this program will allow members of the congregation to use their gifts and skills to enhance the lives of community members.

Possible ministry opportunities include hosting meals, birthday parties, game nights and craft events. We envision developing listening, education, and transportation ministries, as well. It is also our goal to effectively link neighbors for mutual assistance.

This project began with a small group conversation about choosing a population in Brighton that our congregation could effectively serve. In a meeting with a representative from Livingston County's United Way, the group learned about the needs of specific groups in the county. They determined that by partnering with the residents of a local apartment complex, we could connect with our community.

The first step is to host focus groups with the apartment complex residents. The first event is being planned for late August. If you are interested in serving on the Community Outreach Team or in serving in this brand new ministry, please contact Pastor Sherry or Suzanne Everett.

This effort has been inspired by our Vital Church Initiative Commitment (see the VCI Consultation Report at the link in the upper right of this blog page). We celebrate that our congregation has the willingness and skills to be connected in this community in meaningful ways. Our commitment through VCI is to host relational events in our community.

Brighton First Staff Job Descriptions in Review

The congregation of Brighton First chose to follow the recommendations of a Vital Church Initiative (VCI) Consultation Team in April 2015. Since that time, church leadership has been involved in implementing processes to revitalize and strengthen Brighton's ministry. The Staff-Parish Relations Committee (SPRC), the human resources team for our church, has worked to design and hire new 4 staff members since VCI implementation began. Beginning in May 2016, they began the task of rewriting job descriptions for all staff positions. Their goal, as directed by VCI, is to ensure that we are staffed to move the mission of the church forward.

Writing a job description for the senior pastor
at Brighton First begins with reviewing the
responsibilities of an ordained elder, found in
The Book of Discipline of The United
Methodist Church.

A three-person task force from the SPRC began the work by creating a basic framework for developing all job descriptions. They examined the mission and vision of the church and were informed by present job descriptions, as well as by staff members and immediate supervisors. The SPRC has now agreed to a process and a format. The first round of job descriptions (approximately 8) will be drafted by August. It is the hope of the SPRC to complete the work by the end of 2016 and to use the newly designed job descriptions for evaluation purposes and for future hiring.

Interestingly, there is no job description in place currently for the senior pastor. The Book of Discipline of The United Methodist Church does provide a detailed list of the responsibilities for an ordained elder who is appointed to lead a church. For years, this has been "good enough". There are certain things that we have come to expect of a pastor, including preaching, teaching, and visiting the sick. In the case of Brighton First, there is also an expectation that the pastor will manage the staff. However, that general job description does not highlight specific responsibilities for Brighton First's senior pastor, nor does it indicate what skills and tasks are necessary to lead Brighton First and its unique vision. Russ Ruhnow, the chairperson for the SPRC, will be heading the small group that will develop this senior pastor job description.

Often in the church, job descriptions are formed by the people who are hired to do the ministry. The SPRC has been challenged to step back and ask, "What skills and tasks are essential to carry out the vision for our church?" and to include them in our expectations for staff.

Please keep the SPRC in prayer as they take on this project. 

Brighton First Staff Job Descriptions in Review

The congregation of Brighton First chose to follow the recommendations of a Vital Church Initiative (VCI) Consultation Team in April 2015. Since that time, church leadership has been involved in implementing processes to revitalize and strengthen Brighton's ministry. The Staff-Parish Relations Committee (SPRC), the human resources team for our church, has worked to design and hire new 4 staff members since VCI implementation began. Beginning in May 2016, they began the task of rewriting job descriptions for all staff positions. Their goal, as directed by VCI, is to ensure that we are staffed to move the mission of the church forward.

Writing a job description for the senior pastor
at Brighton First begins with reviewing the
responsibilities of an ordained elder, found in
The Book of Discipline of The United
Methodist Church.

A three-person task force from the SPRC began the work by creating a basic framework for developing all job descriptions. They examined the mission and vision of the church and were informed by present job descriptions, as well as by staff members and immediate supervisors. The SPRC has now agreed to a process and a format. The first round of job descriptions (approximately 8) will be drafted by August. It is the hope of the SPRC to complete the work by the end of 2016 and to use the newly designed job descriptions for evaluation purposes and for future hiring.

Interestingly, there is no job description in place currently for the senior pastor. The Book of Discipline of The United Methodist Church does provide a detailed list of the responsibilities for an ordained elder who is appointed to lead a church. For years, this has been "good enough". There are certain things that we have come to expect of a pastor, including preaching, teaching, and visiting the sick. In the case of Brighton First, there is also an expectation that the pastor will manage the staff. However, that general job description does not highlight specific responsibilities for Brighton First's senior pastor, nor does it indicate what skills and tasks are necessary to lead Brighton First and its unique vision. Russ Ruhnow, the chairperson for the SPRC, will be heading the small group that will develop this senior pastor job description.

Often in the church, job descriptions are formed by the people who are hired to do the ministry. The SPRC has been challenged to step back and ask, "What skills and tasks are essential to carry out the vision for our church?" and to include them in our expectations for staff.

Please keep the SPRC in prayer as they take on this project. 

Sunday Breakfast for New Launch Congregation

On Sunday, June 19, Brighton First will host a breakfast for the Launching Congregation of our upcoming band-led worship. The breakfast will begin at 10:30 am, directly after the 9:30 worship service. All those interested in hearing more about our new 11:00 worship service are welcome to attend.

The Vital Church Initiative Consultation Report (find a PDF of the consultation report in the "documents" link at the top of the right column of this blog page) directed Brighton First to act in specific ways to improve worship. By adopting the consultation report, we agreed to take these actions.

In the fall of 2015 we hired worship consultant, Rev. Cathy Townley. With her direction we have been working to improve all of our worship services. Brighton First also agreed to re-invent our third worship service. On May 22, the 11:00 worship service was closed. Over the summer we have begun to develop a new worship format with the help of newly hired worship leader Mike Tooman.

The breakfast on June 19 is an opportunity for those who will be attending the new worship service to get to know each other. In addition Mike Tooman, Director of Discipleship Bob Fuchs and myself will cast a vision for the new worshiping congregation of the band-led worship service.

The agenda for Sunday includes: "get-acquainted" conversations around the tables as we share a meal, singing led by Mike Tooman and presentations from church leaders. The breakfast meeting will end with a challenge to attendees to commit to different ministries that will support the new congregation.

This is an exciting time in the life of Brighton First and I look forward to what God has in store for this new venture in ministry. If you plan to attend the breakfast on Sunday, June 19 at 10:30 please RSVP HERE.

Sunday Breakfast for New Launch Congregation

On Sunday, June 19, Brighton First will host a breakfast for the Launching Congregation of our upcoming band-led worship. The breakfast will begin at 10:30 am, directly after the 9:30 worship service. All those interested in hearing more about our new 11:00 worship service are welcome to attend.

The Vital Church Initiative Consultation Report (find a PDF of the consultation report in the "documents" link at the top of the right column of this blog page) directed Brighton First to act in specific ways to improve worship. By adopting the consultation report, we agreed to take these actions.

In the fall of 2015 we hired worship consultant, Rev. Cathy Townley. With her direction we have been working to improve all of our worship services. Brighton First also agreed to re-invent our third worship service. On May 22, the 11:00 worship service was closed. Over the summer we have begun to develop a new worship format with the help of newly hired worship leader Mike Tooman.

The breakfast on June 19 is an opportunity for those who will be attending the new worship service to get to know each other. In addition Mike Tooman, Director of Discipleship Bob Fuchs and myself will cast a vision for the new worshiping congregation of the band-led worship service.

The agenda for Sunday includes: "get-acquainted" conversations around the tables as we share a meal, singing led by Mike Tooman and presentations from church leaders. The breakfast meeting will end with a challenge to attendees to commit to different ministries that will support the new congregation.

This is an exciting time in the life of Brighton First and I look forward to what God has in store for this new venture in ministry. If you plan to attend the breakfast on Sunday, June 19 at 10:30 please RSVP HERE.