Filling up empty space

Several years ago I read about a church that used an innovative stewardship and mission technique with its members. The church conducted its usual, annual stewardship campaign and the church leadership but simultaneously gave money away – to church members!

A once in a career event…prayerfully and hopefully

Yesterday I participated in one of the most difficult events of my ministry career – the closing of a church. It was a solemn occasion not just in the departure of a congregation from a building but in the acknowledgement that even congregations, like individuals, will die.

Earlier today, Andrew Kukla posted his thoughts on this event and I include a link here:
http://akukla.wordpress.com/2014/09/08/when-a-church-dies/

Andrew’s words are important to remember in the midst of our solemnity, “The Church isn’t dying…the Church is finding a new form. Its purposes will still be lived out, its function is as much in demand as it always has been and always will be.”

The work of God’s kingdom will go on. I take comfort by the beginning of the faith statement, “In life and in death we belong to God.” Right now however, I grieve the loss of a congregation but know that in the healing gift of time that today’s sadness will be lessened by God’s gift of the new form and function of the Church.

Still, in all honesty, I pray and I hope that this is the only time.