The congregation with a missionary minister
What do you mean “missionary?” We don’t have time for that…
The role of the minister is a big one, in particular if he is in a missionary congregation – that is a place where there is renewal, where new members are joining, where a missionary movement has started. Such places will often have a minister who has a pioneering role. His or her role is important but not self-evident. What can he or she do, even if there is not a lot of spare time?
For many ministers and most certainly for those with several congregations it is difficult to take the initiative in being a missionary congregation. There are members who object to missionary work. There are others who run ahead of the troops and are seen as naggers. There are members who for a variety of reasons have a fear of everything that is missionary. The minister holds these groups together suspecting that if he were to make a choice it could lead to problems.
Some ministers have a missionary background having worked in the missionary field. They may at some time have been active in Youth for Christ and have never left those perspectives behind. They have a ‘missionary drive’ and enjoy conversations with people outside the church.
Other ministers have found themselves in a situation where they have no option but to concentrate mainly on the internal problems of the congregation. There is already so much going on: merger problems, buildings that have to be got rid of, a greying congregation getting greyer, closure is threatening… Ministers are eaten alive by meetings that demand all their energy. What do you mean “missionary”? No time, no opportunities either. Ministers are busy, often very busy. Then suddenly there is this appeal from the denomination or district to start being missionary. That can lead to all sorts of reactions - resistance to changes, tiredness and discouragement.
“We have tried it for years, but nothing ever came of it.”
“So what have I done wrong up to now?”
“I just don’t see it, this missionary appeal. The churches are getting emptier all the time, which is a development that cannot be stopped. It is possible that new forms will develop in a number of places, but making the church missionary, forget it.”
“I shall just hang on in this small, ageing congregation. It is quite something that the congregation itself is also hanging on. That is all that can be expected.”
Maybe there is a degree of discouragement or pain at the decline of the church. But the role of the minister is of vital importance, including in a missionary congregation. They do not have to do everything on their own, of course, but without the support from the minister and the church council it remains the hobby of a few individuals, often those at the periphery. What are the steps you as minister can take, even if you do not have a lot of spare time?
A number of suggestions
- It appears that the sermon is very important to many newcomers. Many guests do not understand much of the service, but if the sermon is accessible in everyday language and with good examples, then that accounts for much.
- Support and attention for mission beyond the congregation can be significant. Are the mission activities that are carried out remembered in prayers during the service? Ask people involved in these activities how things are going and what support they need?
- If it looks as if nothing is possible, are there ministerial colleagues or others with whom your minister can share your experiences and pain? When and where are prayers said for the minister?
- The minister needs to be a leader. Not everyone is a charismatic leader, but they can take steps and take a lead. Show others what can be done, without being forceful.
- Is the communication in the church newsletter accessible? Here too the minister ought to play an important role.
- Which contacts does the minister have with people outside the church? Do they allow themselves to be strengthened by conversations with adherents and non-members? Are you as minister at home in their world?
- Have a look at others who are involved in mission activities? Congregations in the vicinity? Pay them a visit and hear what they are doing.
Possible approach for the church
If the congregation wants to become a missionary congregation then what is needed is thorough reflection and a change in your ways of thinking. The church feels that and you know it. But how? Many ministers struggle with that question.
Consider following a course offered by the CWM Europe member churches for example, in the Congregational Federation “Growing Disciples,” or registering in the United Reformed Church as a church participating in “Vision4Life.”
There are opportunities for Experience Enlargement and Leadership Development grants for CWM Member Churches. Why not consider visiting another member church to see what others do in mission in other settings?
