Circuit Ministry Ideas

Ministry plan template as a guide for circuit development
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Book Review

Trebilcock, Robin F., The Small Church At Large: Thinking Local in a Global Context, The Convergence eBook Series, Abingdon Press, Nashville, 2003.

Robin Trebilcock's The Small Church at Large may well be a primer for the development of circuit ministry in Wisconsin. One of his chapter titles is "At Large in the World and at Home With Other Christians." At large is the reaching out in local mission. This concept has been a part of United Methodist understanding of global also being local. It gives new boundaries for every local church that moves us from turf protection to sharing a local/global outreach focused upon others rather than ourselves.

Bill Easum and Tom Bandy, in the forward, offer four enticements for reading Trebliclock's book.

First, you be will introduced to a whole new idea of shepherding that moves from guiding in a confined approach to letting them roam where they will. This lends itself to acknowledging spiritual gifts connecting people to the ministry outside the walls.

Second, you will be introduced to a different kind of leadership described by what the Australians call a "walk around." Instead of being confined to a few overly needy parishioners, the leader keeps on the move among non-church members to learn and to build trust. One of the primary burnout factors for leaders is the constant and never ending demands of a few parishioners that seem to ask for 80% of a leader's time.

Third, you will read about proof that says even small churches with limited resources can provide multiple-option ministries to the diverse public. One size no longer fits all. Five little churches can design five totally distinctive missions aimed at very different cultures and still share the same spiritual identity, mission purpose, and pastoral leadership. This one definition is an excellent working understanding of circuit ministry. It helps us say yes to partnership, and yes to affirming and honoring the local congregation's unique identity.

Finally, you will gain an understanding of the power of micro-macro connections. "Mere ministry to the region or the neighborhood will never capture the imagination of the postmodern, highly mobile, internet connected public. Their respect is given only to those organizations that can connect local experience with global relationships." Yes, people are seeking community in which they feel safe and personally affirmed. However, there is a clear yearning for people to relate to the larger world, its needs, and its ministry challenges.

There is also a section that provides an excellent metaphor about open gates. There is a gate that opens onto Spirit companionship, a gate that opens onto worship, a gate that opens onto Jesus, a gate that opens onto discipleship, and a gate that opens onto leadership.

The question that presented itself to me as I read the book was; "Will circuit ministry help us discover a way to open up new gateways for all who are seeking God's presence in their life, and lead them into true discipleship?

Reviewer: Don Mendenhall

Ministry Innovation Ideas

Some of the "what if" questions listed above may have little relevance to the local or ministry situation of your congregation. However, you may find that one or more of the questions have been active in the hearts and minds of your leadership core. These questions may assist you in discovering new questions. Let the Congregation and Parish Development office know what other "what if's" may be just the right question and just the right time.

Leadership Support Ideas

Leaders of local churches are genuine when they ask themselves and each other how a new vision can be discerned with a sense of passion, bringing new strength and aliveness to their congregation's ministry and mission. Readiness to move forward involves several questions. The questions listed below may provide a beginning point for leaders to consider before and during proceeding with the task. When the best intentions go awry, I have found that the cause usually stems back to one of the following:

Climate: Is there a positive climate for renewing the life and vitality of the congregation?

Spiritual Basis for Revisioning: What is the spiritual calling for the congregation today?

Comprehensive Plan:Are there both short- and long-term ministry plans for the future of the congregation?

Leadership Development: How can leaders be trained and supported during this time of transition?

Funding Support: Is there a way to provide adequate short- and long-range funding support?

Networking: Is there a supportive network within and outside the congregation that will encourage and support the revisioning process?

Passion: Is there a sense of passion and energy emanating from key leadership fully committed to this revisioning task?

Approach: Is there an overall directive approach to renew the life and vitality of this congregation?

Decision Making: Is there a clear, consistent, and trusted decision-making process?

Communication: Is there a consistent two-way communication?

Research: Is there access to research data that will provide an objective look at the ministry situation?

Ministry Context: Why is there need for a United Methodist church in this particular area?

Regeneration: How are regenerating groups to be formed?

Facility Development: Is there a short-range as well as a long-range building and facility plan?

Invitation to Ministry and Faith: Is the invitation to ministry and a life of faith one that meets the current spiritual calling, while being relevant to the lives of people?