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We have a simple strategy. We go where they are! Teams are assigned to the high density marginalized areas of
the city (namely, the subsidized apartment complexes). These teams are
comprised of mature believers from stable homes and believers from the
subsidized communities. This provides a continual on campus presence
and a weekly “full team” presence. Proximity demands responsibility.
The task of the team is to be and teach the gospel to the whole person.
- We do this primarily by having loving, caring relationships with the families in the communities.
- We have weekly Bible studies that address the “Seven Areas of Life”.
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We
are ‘resource experts’ for our communities. This means that we
specialize in finding practical care for their needs. Whether it be
medical, help with bills, GED’s, jobs, emergency provision of food,
clothing or shelter, or sometimes just having fun together, we try to
ensure our neighbors begin to experience the life that we believe is a
whole life.
Our
entry strategy begins with a block party where we introduce ourselves
with a big bang. We follow that up with a series of town hall
meetings...asking new friends how best to serve them and asking
permission to ‘intrude’ into their lives. From this we develop a
ministry team and begin to serve the community. Our life from then on
is simple, be there! Be Jesus to the people. Stay put.
Our
strategy is derived from the verbs in Luke 10 where the disciples
prepare the cities where “Jesus was about to go”. Pray (for help), Go
(get out), Bless (welcome party), Stay (make relationship), Heal (meet
practical needs), then Say (tell them God’s plan for their lives).
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