A Critical Role

Pa. Butch Novitsky, Pastor of Discipleship Ministries shared in the recent church newsletter, "Village View," that Village EFC of Maple Plain, MN has an intentional vision for their Leadership Community which includes a monthly gathering to equip their small group "pastors" (leaders of Growth Groups and Ministry Teams). Focused on providing support and training to those who take on the critical role of small group disciplemakers, the group of 20 leaders and their spouses are intentionally encouraged, challenged by the Word and informed to share vital information important to the body with their small groups. As Pa. Butch said, "We believe this role of small group 'pastor' to be the critical role for the success of our congregation. All small groups are intended to be places where lives out what it means to know and delight in Jesus Christ."

What does your church do to grow disciplemakers?

Coming Up: Planes, Dugout Canoes and Bumpy Truck Rides

Flying from the U.S. to Bangui, Congo, an EFCA team of 15 leaves April 20. Ahead of them, a river crossing in dugout canoes and a 10-12 hour truck trip to arrive in Gemena. Traveling together will be six from Elim EFC in Puyallup, WA, two from Wasatch EFC in Roy, UT, and two from Village Church of Lincolnshire, IL.

Projects planned for this trip:
o Training
-For hundreds of church Youth ministry leaders (by Youth Pastors on the trip)
-Outreach English classes
-Sunday School training
-Carpentry training (at Elikya)
-A pediatrician and a physical therapist teaching at the hospital
o A master planning session for Tandala Hospital
o Visitors from an NGO in the USA will explore joining the CECU (Evangelical Free Church Congo) in a child focused AIDS treatment program

Pray for this team!