Seventh-day Adventist Leaders Embrace Missionary Culture at 'Guest Follow-up Virtual Colloquy
In an unprecedented move, ministry leaders from churches within the territory of the North Caribbean Conference (NCC) of Seventh-day Adventists participated in the inaugural 'Guest Follow-up' Virtual Colloquy from October 6 - 8, 2023.
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In an unprecedented move, ministry leaders from churches within the territory of the North Caribbean Conference (NCC) of Seventh-day Adventists participated in the inaugural 'Guest Follow-up' Virtual Colloquy from October 6 - 8, 2023. The event, sponsored by the Personal Ministries Department, was transformational and marked a critical moment in the church's commitment to strengthening its missionary culture.
Pastor Hesketh Matthew, Personal Ministries Director for the NCC, posited that the three-day mission refocuses event is one of the priorities emerging from the Evangelism Strategic plan, which is pertinent to the changing times, He continued by saying that "Rather than reserving invitations to particular days or events. the opportunity that the church has to enjoy a weekly presence of guests in their worship spaces should never go unnoticed."
Churches serious about growth seek to maintain a minimum of 16% of their annual guests; it is critical to missions that our church be a safe and sanitary place. While the recent pandemic has taught us how to become socially distant, members must resist only huddling with those they know or would like to know; members must connect with guests before and after the services.
Pastor Matthew stressed the significance of helping guests connect with others within the church, noting that by fostering these interpersonal connections, the guests benefit, the church benefits and sets a powerful example for its members, demonstrating the value of relationship-building.
Mrs Linda Ambrose presenting the seminar encouraged those in attendance to plan non-threatening events that will move our churches from invisible to visible in our unbelieving community. The goal is making a connection with every family who participates.
"While most of us are busily choosing whom we want to know, we want the church to see possibility. One of the greatest gifts we can give a new friend is another new friend. Churches should not settle for meeting guests but help them meet someone else. When we connect people to people, we model to our members and guests what relationship building can look like”, said Matthew.
Adding to the conversation, Pastor Desmond, President of the Conference, emphasized the Adventist Church's commitment to promoting total membership involvement by facilitating opportunities for friends to learn more about God's love through church services and programs. He further said, "For us as a conference, it is imperative to have developed this project because we want to eventually model how the entire membership can use the church services and programs to help friends learn more about God's love."
The colloquy targeted various church leaders, including Sabbath School superintendents, deacons, elders, ushers, praise team leaders, interest coordinators, and children ministry leaders, who share the responsibility of shepherding the congregation each week. The event sought to expand their roles beyond traditional duties like greeting, assisting in services, and collecting tithes and offerings to recognize the need to embrace newcomers who often wonder why those around them hesitate to engage.
Official flyer advertising the virtual colloquy sponsored by the North Caribbean Conference.
The goal is for the Seventh-day Adventist churches to serve as Centers of Influence and spaces where the values of love and well-being are shared daily. Linda Ambrose, the Women's Ministry Director at NCC and an attendee at the seminar, expressed her commitment to enhancing the post-service experience. She noted that while she is not a fan of the "turn-and-greet your neighbor" moments that many churches have, she will build on the moments after services end.
Once fully embraced, the impact of this ministry extends far beyond the NCC, potentially serving as an inspirational beacon for the entire Caribbean Union. The discussion left attendees basking in introspection and inspiration, empowering them to use available opportunities to encourage guests to return to church. Many expressed gratitude for Pastor Matthew's call to action and commitment to creating a culture that genuinely embraces guests