Regional Synod of Canada - Reformed Church in America

Pioneer Christian Monthly

Date - Mar/94

Contributor - Florence Konynenberg & Jim Moerman

Title - Ideas That Work

Topic - Ministries

Question: Our church has heard from various sources that it is very important congregation to start new ministries from time to time in order to grow (both qualitatively and quantitatively). How do we know which ministries to start?

New ministries usually arise out of an area of perceived need, either in the local church or in the community. Both are good places to start by asking your self, "What are the needs?" More to the point, What are the needs that are currently being overlooked?"

Jesus came and ministered to all sorts of people, but He majored in reaching out to people who were overlooked in His day: the children, prostitutes, tax collectors, lepers, the demonized.

Powell River Community Reformed Church, a thriving congregation on the sunshine coast of British Columbia, has found such a group of overlooked people with great needs: people with mental impairments. Florence tells her story:

"When the idea first came up to conduct a Bible study for the mentally handicapped, I was filled with apprehension. Every conceivable reason not to get involved came to mind. What in the world could I say or do with these individuals?

"But when I was approached by a member of our church to help with such a Bible study, I found myself curious and tentatively willing to get involved. An inter-church 'Friendship Bible Study' was started up at our church, meeting every week.

"That was over a year ago. Since then, we have studied God's creation, God's wonderful promises, the power of prayer and so on. One lesson in particular, taken from 11 Samuel 9, spoke powerfully to me and to everyone in the group. Mephibosheth was a relative of Saul's household who happened to be handicapped. The passage speaks of King David's generosity and concern with Mephibosheth. David cares and is kind because God cares and is kind!

"Friendship is very important to persons with impairments. Friendships have been made between leaders and students that none of us would trade for the world. The love and trust given by these people is tremendous. But what they have given to us has far exceeded what we have given to them. Have you ever heard the Christmas story as seen through the eyes of a mentally challenged person? Have you ever heard 'Jesus Loves Me' song from the heart like no 'normal' adult can?

"My fears about this new ministry have been completely erased. My new friends love to play instruments and sing to the Lord with all their hearts. They pray for one another without hesitation (do you?). They love fellowship. They are always ready to give of themselves.

"I am so grateful that the Lord has chosen me to be part of such a wonderful ministry as this. The Great Commission is to spread the Good News to everyone. Everyone! People with mental impairments are unlikely to find out about God's love on their own. They are depending on us - perhaps more than any other group in our society - to share the Gospel with them.

What are the overlooked people groups in your community? In your church? Working moms? The elderly? Latchkey kids? The answer could provide you with clear guidance as you launch that new ministry with a team of like-minded people.

Then watch the momentum in your congregation shift. Watch the pride swell. Watch the praise to God our Father increase. Pray about it. Ask the Lord to reveal that overlooked people group and equip you and your team to minister to them.

You can do it. Just as Florence Konynenberg.

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