North Area "Vision Quest"
Dear North Area Pastors and Churches
I'd like to you to promote and participate in our North Area "Vision Quest" meetings. I'd like to encourage you to come prepared and primed for an historic discussion.
The heart of this is revival (or burial) of our Association. Let's be honest -- what is the purpose of having an "Association" in this day of ministry? Is it just an old fashioned formality, kept just in case we need an ordination council? Why and how should local American Baptist congregations partner? What can we do together that we cannot do apart? Let's be sure to recognize our differences and even our conflicts, but let's identify those things about Christ and his work that we can stand together on.
To get at that I propose we break into small groups to discuss three basic questions. Prayerfully consider these ahead of time with folks in your church.
1. What are the biggest challenges to your ministry? Come with your thoughts and we'll find common ground.
2. How can your sister churches help meet those challenges? We'll brainstorm ideas and talk through the unique opportunities for the Association/Area.
3. What is your vision for our life and work together, and how can we make that happen? We want your input on whether we, your Association/Area, are on the right track.
We'll have two "Vision Quest" meetings: (Of course you can come to which one suits you best, or even both if so inclined.)
April 6 from 3-5 pm at Michigan Avenue Baptist of Saginaw
April 13 from 3-5 pm at the FBC of Grand Blanc
After a brief time of welcome and instruction, we'll engage in this process with break out groups from 3:15-4:30 pm, and then report our findings from 4:30-5:00 pm.
Bring as many folks from your congregation as you think helpful. While this is not a workshop or equipping event, my prayer is that it will rejuvenate our work and our witness together. The North Area Executive Committee will record our discussion and develop a plan for your approval by our Spring Meeting in early May.
Know that we stand with you. This is again sent with a heartfelt prayer that the God who gives endurance and encouragement would give us a spirit of unity as we follow Christ Jesus, so that with one heart and mouth we may glorify the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ. (Romans 15:5)
Thanks for being part of the North Area!
Rev. Todd Regester
North Area Chair
Hill Road Baptist Church
3500 W Hill Road
Flint MI 48507
Church: 810 238-5572
Home: 810 235-0236