Bethlen Almanac 1999 (Ligonier)

Nyugati Egyházmegye - Western Classis

pastor. Of course it’s a major challenge since they are in a survival mode, a fact characterizing a number of small churches in America. The nature of their vision does not consist of mere wishes but, as all biblical vision, is nourished by a commitment to the Lord and trust in His never failing love and power. Just think of Abraham’s steadfast vision of the promised land, of Peter’s vision to extend God’s kingdom beyond the Jewish community of Jerusalem, of Paul’s vision to expand the church’s missionary effort to little Asia, Macedonia and way off to Rome. Congregational vitality depends on understanding the heritage of our Hungarian Reformed Church too. The difference between healthy, growing congregations and other churches is not some secret formula, but that they do the common, mundane, boring tasks of ministry uncommonly well. They do so regardless of size, socio-economic makeup, location, or neighborhood diversity, never succumbing to the “good enough” syndrome. We believe that excellent leadership of which Paul speaks in II. Cor. 8:7, is creating an environment where each person does what they do best, feels free to volunteer in the capacity at which they are able, and accepts the challenge to make us an excellent congregation from top to bottom.

One of the important trends of the churches in the 90’s is a shift from mass evangelism to relational evangelism. Simply put, the biggest and best opportunity for churches these days has been for members to reach out to people who are already their friends. It springs from the idea that people have to know you are genuine and really care about them in some way before you can speak to them about their souls. It involves making someone who is already our friend, Christ’s friend. It’s sharing God with someone you care for and with whom you’ve already demonstrated God’s saving love. The visionary church is more than a fellowship of compatible people who enjoy one another’s weekend company. It differs from service clubs, social agencies and entertaining bazaars as important as they are. As a mission-driven church, change becomes an opportunity to grow personally as well as to have the satisfaction of helping others come to Christ, mature in faith, discover their gifts and go out to serve.

Rev. William D. Bonis, Adm., Pastor

119