The mission of Growing Healthy
Churches has not changed since 1997. Our mission is our name and the region
works at this mission through transformation and reproduction. Therefore it is
always nice to receive an unsolicited letter that affirms that we as a region
and now a network of congregations are doing our mission well. As you read this
letter I want you to hear again from me that we are open to working with any
pastor, group of lay leaders, or congregation that takes seriously Jesus’
command to the Church to “make disciples”. Producing healthy, growing, and
reproducing congregations is hard work, and our commitment is to come alongside
those leaders that are willing to take on the challenge of having their
congregations join God in God’s mission for the Church.
“It’s Great to Be Back”
A colleague recently asked me why I moved back to California. That’s a
good question, considering that in 1991, after an eight year ministry in the
Bay Area, we moved to the Philadelphia area and pastored a church for 15 years.
In 2006 we moved back to California to pastor the Fowler Baptist Church. What
brought me back, in part, was a desire to do ministry within GHC. I could see
God working here and I wanted to join Him.
Since coming back to the region I’ve heard a few pastors yearn for the
good old days, while complaining that now the region only cares about the large
churches. In the eighteen months I’ve been at Fowler, I and my church have
received from the region more help and support than I experienced in my previous
22 years of ministry combined.
Consider in just 18 months:
- Dr. Borden came and preached at
Fowler. By the way, after his message, I gave an invitation and 14 people came
forward.
- David Bennett preached the final
sermon for a stewardship series for us. Afterwards, he gave a free seminar on
giving.
- One of my cluster co-leaders has
filled our pulpit twice.
- GHC (As part of the Growth Track
Strategy) gave our church an interest free loan of $15,000 to help bring me
from the East Coast.
- I attend two clusters, during
which I experience great fellowship, prayer support, and receive excellent
leadership training.
- I’ve also been blessed by the
Super Clusters and other excellent regional training events.
- The GHC support staff has been quick
to answer questions and provide resources whenever needed.
Oh, did I mention that at Fowler Baptist we have gone from 60 to 85 in
average worship attendance? That’s not exactly 'Saddleback' type of numbers, but
we are moving in the right direction.
Is GHC biased towards some churches? I’d say yes, but it’s not a bias
towards the big churches. I perceive GHC has intentionally chosen a bias
towards churches that are pursuing health.
I have two suggestions for those who are feeling neglected by the
region. First, get with the program! Let the GHC staff know you and your church
want to become healthy.
Secondly, ask! If you want Dr. Borden to preach at your church, ask!
If you want a church assessment done, ask! If you need help, prayer, or
resources – ask!
One does not leave a healthy, long-term ministry, move across the
country, and take a church that has been small for 100 years without expecting
exceptional support from the region. I thank the Lord I have not been
disappointed with my decision to become a part of the GHC family.
Pastor Jim Kennon
Fowler Baptist Church - Fowler, CA
