Today saw an early start to mission for the Panania team to reach the morning peak for leafleting at train stations. the team spread out across Panania, Revesby and East Hills stations. It was at times discouraging by being rejected so frequently but at other times felt worthwhile as a person takes the leaflet and the exciting prospect of just a few people reading it and God using it to change their lives. There was even one lady who asked to be prayed with who just happened to be there and having a tough day.
Polly Butterworth and Hope Miles also joined in with two ladies from the congregation to read Amos and pray. It was encouraging to see the speed which our team had partnered with the folks Panania.
After lunch we had a chance to learn from the wisdom of the ministry team at Panania. Dave, James and Michael shared their wisdom.
Dave looked at some of the things that had worked with the various churches he’d been involved with. he emphasised the need for simplicity in the overall ministry plan, the need to equip the congregation in evangelism (giving their testimonies and explaining 2 ways to live), the importance in making connections in the community to reach people, the success they have had in reaching the community through the children’s play groups, the positive engagement with the community through hosting relevant and topical speaking evenings (eg raising teens), and the important of continuing pastoral care.
James explained the engage, evangelise, establish, and equip model which they are introducing to help direct ministry efforts. He also stressed the necessity of breaking down the very general ministry goals into more specific objectives, goals and tasks.
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