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Telling our stories

by Andy Gustafson, Associate Conference Minister

February/March 2007

In the book of Acts, Luke relates the stories of the early church, and the work the apostles performed. These stories have inspired generations to commit their own acts of evangelism, mission and justice. Like Luke, we need to tell stories of what we are doing today to spread the Good News in our churches, communities and the world. These stories of accomplishment will inspire increased commitment of time, talent and treasure to the work of the church.

The job of telling these stories belongs to everyone, though a church would be wise to have at least one person with the responsibility to coordinate this ministry. Here are some ideas of how you might do this in your church:

• During the offering those who have benefited from the ministries of the church (a parent with a child in Sunday school, a member of a Bible study group, etc.) could tell what a specific church ministry has meant to them.
  
• Committees and ministry teams can take turns writing newsletter articles about their accomplishments (concentrating on lives touched, not statistics).
  
• Bulletin boards messages, poetry and other works of art can be fun and creative ways to allow those with such talents to communicate the work of the church in new and engaging ways.
   
• Take advantage of “Mission Moments” and other bulletin inserts to communicate the work of the wider church.
  
• E-mail provides an easy way to keep all in the church informed about the important work going on in their name and made possible because of their support.

When you tell your church’s story you are being faithful in following Jesus’ instruction to “let your light shine before others, so that they may see your good works and give glory to your Father in heaven.” (Matt. 5:16 NRSV)