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‘Transformational gifts’–encourage passion, don’t fill committee slots
Belchertown’s ‘action’ screensaver

June, 2004

“We resolve to be a church that seeks to identify, equip, encourage and evaluate Christian Discipleship, anytime, anywhere, by anyone, for the purpose of nurturing an individual’s gifts and visions...” says the mission statement of the Congregational Church in Belchertown, UCC.

Cheering on those gifts and visions is pastor Todd Farnsworth. “When folks express an interest in our church, we inform them about our Intentional Ministry program. On our Web site (www.belchertowncongo.org) and as a printed copy, we have a ‘screensaver’ that shows how you can put your faith into action, whether you are a member of our church or not,” he said.

“Out of this process we have brought into being a food shelf ministry, a runners’ ministry, an Obsessive Compulsive Disorder Support Group, and an emergency meal delivery program.”

Shared on the Web site is “A Very Personal Ministry Story” by member June Henneman. She tells of feeling inadequate to help out after the Sept. 11, 2001 attack. She said:
“Several months ago Rev. Todd gathered a group of our church people to tell us about the possibilities of Intentional Ministry. He suggested we use our personal resources to pursue ways to become stronger in our faith and incorporate others in our plans.

“Summer came and went and I had not decided what to do. When the tragedy of September 11 happened, I wished I could ‘do something’! ... I could give money and I could mourn the loss of life, but I still felt so inadequate.”

She described how in January 2002 she found out that a friend was called back as a Reservist, and that the friend worked nights while her husband worked the day shift. When the friend asked if Henneman knew anyone who could be with their three children in the mornings, she pondered the request during a Sunday church service and later offered to be with the children one morning a week before they got on the bus.

“The offer was taken up with great relief and for the past three months I have enjoyed my ‘job.’ I now feel that I contributed something ... as my friend is doing important work in the defense of our country and I brought relief to her knowing that her children are cared for.”

The Intentional Ministry, then, is helping others in any way that fits your abilities and resources.