new church life: march/april 2016
Way Church of Austin, and some were introduced to the New Church. This
experiment demonstrates that we are willing to try things that might make a
difference.
“The decision to close the New Way Church also indicates we can make a
tough decision, even though it did benefit some people. And we are learning
from it to help us in the future. We should congratulate Mac for his dedicated
efforts.”
general church board
At their February 5-6 winter meeting in Bryn Athyn the General Church Board
of Directors gave extensive consideration to a draft of the proposed strategic
plan. There was strong endorsement of the plan and a determination to move
forward with it.
The mission of the plan is “to help people live a heavenly life through the
teachings of the Lord God Jesus Christ in His Second Coming.”
The overarching theme of the plan is greater engagement with that mission
throughout the Church. There are six primary strands to the plan:
• Education: The goal is to equip children and young people for
regeneration and eternal life.
• Outreach: The goal is to reach out with the truths of the New Church
and welcome new people into the life of the Church.
• Participation: The goal is to provide avenues for greater participation in
the life of the Church.
• Communication: The goal is to develop a plan to promote the purposes
and values of the General Church and to seek interactive counsel in
bringing them to life.
• Professional Development: The goal is to develop, engage and retain
highly qualified talent with the capacity to advance the Church’s mission.
• International: The goal is to support the development of the Church
internationally.
Many suggestions were made for improvements to the plan as the strategic
planning committee continues its work.
In his report Bishop Brian Keith noted that a non-ordination Master of
Divinity track in the Theological School is looking less likely due to finances
and the potential level of interest.
The General Church is advertising for two positions in the Office of
Advancement – for annual fund solicitation and donor relations. Meanwhile,
several board members volunteered to make phone calls – to thank donors for
their support and to encourage giving toward their passions in the Church.
It was noted that communication is lacking and sorely needed throughout
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