As winter settles in, you're probably starting to think about the return of summer. Now is the perfect time to consider how you can partner for a transformational summer ministry that reaches lost people, gives lift and builds partnership relations.
1. Go North
Consider partnering with one of our four self-governing churches in the NWT, or one of our four active Pentecostal Sub Arctic Mission stations in small, isolated communities in the NWT. The summer months offer great opportunities for engaging children and youth in camps, activities and serving the community in ways that offer Gospel witness and opportunities to respond.
2. Partner with a Rural Church
Smaller churches in a smaller town can have a great impact on reaching the whole community. Think about taking a ministry team from your local church to partner with a smaller church that has the potential to reach their community through a community carnival, day camp, summer concert or BBQ event. Help bring a lift to a church that might be small in numbers but has a big heart to reach its community and lead people to Jesus.
3. Contribute to a Community Event
Find out what's happening in your city or town during summer. Determine where the biggest needs are. Consider one way that you can contribute and serve your community. Whether it's Canada Day celebrations, heritage days, a large event or a concert, find a tangible and practical way to be present in the life of your community, serving them, engaging them and being a positive Christian witness that bridges them to faith.
Whatever you do, be thoughtful, intentional, and generous and serve with excellence. Be a positive reflection of Jesus and a Christ follower. Find fruitful partnerships that can be cultivated and deepened. Be realistic about your time, capacity and commitment. Be open and honest about expectations in partnership.
Hailey is the President of the Sub Arctic Leadership Training College and the Director of Northern Initiatives and Church Partnerships for the ABNWT District Resource Center