A Witnessing Community: A Basic Guide to Congregational Missionary Ministry

A Witnessing Community: A Basic Guide to Congregational Missionary Ministry, Council of Twelve Apostles and Missionary Ministries Office, Herald Publishing House, Independence MO, 2003. ISBN 9780830911042. This is a beginning approach to missionary ministry that promotes the emergence of a Christ-centered and person-oriented congregation. It is built on the principle that people rather than programs or structures win people to the gospel. The emphasis throughout this guide is on the creation of inviting and caring congregational ministries. It outlines the four stages a congregation goes through in becoming a witnessing community, and is filled with ideas and suggestions for creating missionary opportunities.

Resource Categories

• Discipleship development
  • Getting to know Jesus
  • Getting to know Christianity
  • Discipleship instruction
  • Spiritual Formation
• Evangelism
  • Articulating our faith
  • Sharing our witness
  • Community of Christ missionary resources
• Starting new groups/congregations
• Congregational leadership
• Worship
• Christian education
• Children and Youth Ministry
• Bridging ministry (outreach to people who have become separated from the church)
• Hospitality Ministry
• Community/Neighborhood Involvement
• Internet ministry
• Skills acquisition
• Natural Church Development
• International Christianity