we're getting close to something...

I am energized that we have some momentum in worship now.  We're seeing lots of visitors and and there is a good bit of excitement. We still have a number of people that wish we'd just all come back together. We still have a number of people that are upset that we are doing things that are so contemporary in the community service even though they are in the traditions worship. And we have some people that are upset that their sunday school class moved to a time that conflicted with their choice in a worship service. 

And so what do we learn from this?

I would say that we learn that we can't please everybody in ministry and there will always be pain in change. The success will rest in the ability of our church to be outward focused and passion to see the church become a spiritual solution for our region and not just our existing church family.

I sense that we will still experience the loss of people are looking for a comfortable spiritual nest as we continue to reform the mission of our church. Bluegrass the "homey, everybody-does-everything-together church" is not the same. And I understand the hurts of these people. I am asking God to help me celebrate the fact that He is blessing other churches with these dear families (which i love) and God is continuing to change the lives of people who have been disconnected and unchurched through the worship, small groups, and ministries of our church. I pray that my existing church family gets a passion to see spiritual awakening that is palpable and transforms everything (even their pastor.)

Comments

[Loren]

This is great Matt! I need to read your blog more often.