The background of LAMP
Various members of these and other area congregations met for a number of years, and put together this model partnership to strengthen the health and vitality of their congregations futures. A task force was formed and developed a ministry agreement in principle for how its congregations can share pastors, staff, and possibly other resources to enhance their worship and ministries, provide more stability, operate more effectively, and make better use of their finances – all to better serve Christ’s mission in the world.
Throughout their many months of discussions, the task force frequently discussed some common concerns.
•Pastoral burnout
•When Pastors move on, congregations are left without Pastoral leadership
•Changing times. There are less Pastors available
•Despite population growth, there is stagnant or even declining church membership in our congregations
•Financial stress keeps us focused on survival instead of mission
Many benefits and opportunities rose to the surface as the task force explored the possibilities of shared ministry.
•Good stewardship of the time and talents of our Pastors
•Combined lay leadership training and opportunities
•Spiritual enrichment - numerous available bible studies
•More options for special events such as; retreats, special speakers and community education
•Combined community outreach
•Intern opportunities. We could be a teaching model for future leaders in the church
•Expansion of children and youth ministries
•Church members would have access to more than one spiritual leader
•Reduce financial stress
Various members of these and other area congregations met for a number of years, and put together this model partnership to strengthen the health and vitality of their congregations futures. A task force was formed and developed a ministry agreement in principle for how its congregations can share pastors, staff, and possibly other resources to enhance their worship and ministries, provide more stability, operate more effectively, and make better use of their finances – all to better serve Christ’s mission in the world.
Throughout their many months of discussions, the task force frequently discussed some common concerns.
•Pastoral burnout
•When Pastors move on, congregations are left without Pastoral leadership
•Changing times. There are less Pastors available
•Despite population growth, there is stagnant or even declining church membership in our congregations
•Financial stress keeps us focused on survival instead of mission
Many benefits and opportunities rose to the surface as the task force explored the possibilities of shared ministry.
•Good stewardship of the time and talents of our Pastors
•Combined lay leadership training and opportunities
•Spiritual enrichment - numerous available bible studies
•More options for special events such as; retreats, special speakers and community education
•Combined community outreach
•Intern opportunities. We could be a teaching model for future leaders in the church
•Expansion of children and youth ministries
•Church members would have access to more than one spiritual leader
•Reduce financial stress