This update is from Pastor Mary Bacheller, who reports on the progress of Hands for Christ Community Church in Staten Island, New York. This new church is being formed principally by and for people who are deaf. Mary reports on two recent events that are important steps in preparing to launch the new church.
Launch team retreat
Mary gathered the 14 ministry leaders who are helping her start the new church (see picture below). They held a weekend retreat where the leaders introduced themselves and the group prayed for one another. Much laughter and some tears were shared. Of the 14 in attendance, three are GCI members. Seven of the others are either unchurched or have not been to a church in over 15 years. Mary shared with the group the vision, mission, budget and discipleship pathway that will shape the life of the new church. She then asked each leader for a one-year commitment to serve on the launch team. She also asked each of the leaders to complete a self-assessment survey called SHAPE: S=spiritual gifts, H=heart, A=abilities, P=personality, E=education/experience. The retreat ended with communion.
First formal Bible study
Fifteen people attended this event, the first in a series of Bible studies. It was held in the library of the church building where the new church will be meeting. It turned out that the library was too small to accommodate the group – next time they will meet in the church fellowship hall. For these studies, Mary is using the Alpha Course. The first study addressed personal friendships and a relationship with Jesus. The next study will address the identity of Jesus and God’s plan for humanity as revealed in Scripture.
Congratulations Mary, to you and the rest of your start up group. Appreciated the description of this upcoming plant that you gave all of us at the conference in Memphis last spring.
Way to go, Mary!
Dear Mary!
God bless you and your staff, and each and every member of your church!
Let the Light of the Lord be present at your church, let His Love flow in every heart, and the Joy of the Lord will give you strength
All blessings to every step of your beautiful life
My love and from now on prayers,
Elly
Outstanding Mary! Our prayers are with you.
Your leadership is inspiring!
All the best Mary! May the Lord continue to bless your efforts as you continue to trust in his direction.
Larry
Congratulations on a very successful beginning for the church plant that you are leading. Adrienne and I are thrilled that you have embraced this opportunity to serve in the community that you know so well. May God richly bless you and keep you. Love, Tom and Adrienne
Wonderful beginning. Looking forward to hearing more of what the Lord will do through you all.
Hallelujah! This is the answer to so many prayers. God bless you all.