The Council of Bishops has identified seven potential pathways for transformation of the church (see side bar).  The pathways are intended to help all of us at every level of the church focus our attention at every level of the church from local congregations to general church on the important emphases on the way to make disciples of Jesus Christ.

            I believe every congregation can start a new faith community.  By “faith community” I am not necessarily talking about a church, although churches certainly are faith communities.  Faith communities have two parts to them:  a system for making disciples and opportunities for worship.  I believe churches can start groups within and outside that include people who are new to the church. 

These groups can have the focus of making disciples.  They may be Bible study groups, discussion groups, prayer groups, service groups.  Members can be invited to worship with the existing congregation. 

            There are many models to form new groups.  They have one thing in common; people who have the vision to see the formation of a new group and who have the energy to invite people to help them bring the vision into reality.  I’m looking for people around the district who have both the vision and energy to birth new faith communities.  I’m looking to the pastors of district churches, but not limiting my view to them.  Often the most effective leaders are Spirit-energized lay persons.  Further, I encourage each church in our district to raise the question in their planning for ministry of the next year:  Is Christ calling us to start a new a faith community?

Grace and Peace!