What happens when a community minister enters into a relationship with a congregation? How does this affect the dynamics of the ministry and the congregation? A panel will present several different arrangements between community ministers and congregations, leading into a discussion of ways our diverse ministries can come together to enhance and expand the presence of our congregations in our communities.
Now that the MFC is requiring all community ministers to be in relationship with congregations (or districts or associate organizations), there is an increase in community ministers seeking congregations with whom to be in relationship.
These relationships are being formalized in endorsement agreements with congregational leadership and covenants with entire congregations. Some congregations are installing their community ministers in rituals similar to those for parish ministers.
Parish-based ministers need to know what the options are when a community minister comes to them seeking a relationship. This workshop will explore several different options and allow time for questions, discussion, and creative exploration, to help us develop this new way of doing ministry together.