Evangelistic Mission in our Diocese

Greetings in the name of our risen Lord, Jesus Christ!

This edition of the Communiqué is once again focused on Evangelistic Mission, one of the Six Marks of Flourishing Churches. Let me share with you one way I have seen a church exemplify this important aspect of flourishing.

Just a few weeks ago, Jody and I traveled to Montgomery for our annual episcopal visit with Christchurch. Because we were arriving on a Friday, were invited to attend Celebrate Recovery. What a joy! Jody and I left in agreement that we had seen the glory of God in this meeting. 

We met several people who were also attending for the first time. People with stories of brokenness and hurt, but, importantly, seeking a change in their lives. Deacon Dolly McLemore gave the talk that evening which was focused on Confess. Dolly clearly communicated the gospel of Jesus Christ to men and women hungry for truth and the power to change their lives. Being removed from the relational ministry connections (especially with pre-believers) that come with local parish ministry has been one of the hardest things for me in my ministry as a bishop. It was encouraging, and truly humbling, to watch the work of evangelistic mission happen before my eyes. 

What impressed me the most was the practical approach CR takes. This ministry brings the Gospel to people through helpful next steps in applying God’s truth to everyday life. We all have hurts, hangups, and habits; Jesus calls us to come to him for forgiveness and freedom, lived out in a loving community with others. I am glad to hear that Celebrate Recovery is being offered in several of our congregations. Now, I am not suggesting that CR is the singular right way to engage in Evangelistic Mission, but I commend it as one effective way to engage with Jesus’ Great Commission.

That reminds me of the story I heard about one man who attempted to correct what was ‘wrong’ with another man’s approach to evangelism. His response was something like, “I will take my imperfect approach to evangelism over your theory of evangelism that is never put into practice.”  You and your parish do not have to do CR (or Alpha), but we must all be challenged by Jesus’ call: “As the Father has sent me, so am I sending you.” What is your strategy? Is it only theoretical, or are you attempting to put it into practice? What do you need in order to take the next step? Do you know where to get it? We have rich resources to share in our Diocese—and more are coming.

As Jody and I visit with you throughout the year, we are so encouraged by seeing congregations all over the Diocese who believe the Gospel and want to live it out in their lives together. What a privilege to see God’s Church in action!

God Bless you all,
+Alex