What is this "team ministry" stuff and why are we doing it?

In 1996, our church developed a mission statement that stated that our mission is to "make disciples of all nations." At the same time, we listed five "core values" or main purposes to help us fulfill this mission. The team ministry concept is aimed toward fulfilling these five purposes by forming a team that is focused on each core value.

What are those core values again and why are they important?

The core values revolve around five purposes of a church: evangelism, serving people's needs, fellowship, worship and discipleship. These five purposes can also be stated as: Evangelize, Equip, Encourage, Exalt God and Edify. These core values are important because they represent each aspect that makes a healthy church that is fulfilling it's mission.

What exactly will these teams do?

Initially, the teams get together and do just two things: (1) Evaluate by asking "How we as a church are doing in fulfilling this particular purpose?"; (2) Answer the question: "How can we do a better job in fulfilling this purpose?" That's basically all the teams do. Later on, the teams might decide to take on other functions, but it will be up to the particular team.

Can you give some examples of activities that would fall under each of the five purposes?

These are just some examples of what a team could focus on. A team may focus on something entirely different than these.

Evangelize: Seeker's Group, door-to-door invitations

Equip: Sunday school teacher training, volunteer at O.C. Mission, literacy tutoring, small group leader training, support groups, Habitat 4 Humanity

Encourage: visitation, church outings, Banqueting Table, cards & letters

Exalt: Sunday worship services, special services for youth

Edify: small group Bible Study, youth group, Sunday school

After our team answers the two questions listed above, what do we do with the ideas we come up with?

Write down your ideas and e-mail or give them to Pastor Daryl or a Board Member. Sometimes, the ideas can be implemented immediately. In other cases, more prayer and evaluation may be needed.

Does our team have to actually implement the ideas we come up with?

No. It's entirely up to you and your teammates what you want to do with your ideas. We can pray about the ideas, and seek God's guidance about whether or not He wants a particular idea implemented.

How do I know which team I should join?

There are various ways you can determine which team to join. What area interests you most? What specific gifts, talents and abilities do you have that might contribute to one of the teams? Even if you don't feel particularly gifted in a certain area, which team are you willing to help out with? Where is God calling you? If you are still having difficulty deciding, ask Pastor Daryl or someone else for some suggestions.

How long do I stay on a team?

If at all possible, we are asking that you stay on a team for at least six months to establish some continuity in the evaluation and planning process.