An aspect of missional ministry that is of great importance is the willingness of the local church to find partners in the community that open bridges into that community over which the gospel of Christ will travel. While building networks with other churches is also important, the community is impacted in a different way when governments, schools and businesses find that churches are interested in helping these entities become successful in their own mission.
In 2007, our then Pastor of Worship, Dan Brothers, had a vision to take our annual Christmas production outside in partnership with a local resort area. It was a pretty big step for us as it required a pretty large number of volunteers, but went very well with a good attendance. In Christmas of 2008 we again partnered with this resort and, based on our first partnership, they gave us a better location and offered to help with assorted expenses. We also agreed to allow our stage and sound equipment to be used by other groups at times when we were not utilizing it.
Last week two of our pastors, Ronnie Cansler and Joey Jernigan, and another leader from our church met with the marketing and management groups from the resort in order to get a jump on Christmas for this year. Because of weather concerns in December our goal had been to utilize a tent to help in the event of rain and give us the option to provide heat to those who attend. When the resort learned of that possibility, they agreed to foot the cost for all of the weeks of use with the exception of the two weeks that we actually use the tent. In return, our stage (which we build on site, tear down and remove) can be used by various school groups who come to sing carols, etc. We provide audio and lighting volunteers.
We would have been content to have that agreement as it allows for tremendous influence in our community but there was more. This particular resort has campgrounds and a 1,500 seat amphitheater. The management has agreed to allow us to do VBS, Bible clubs, mission VBS, etc, pretty much anything that might be on interest to those who are camping. We can also utilize the amphitheater for a concert series or other special musical event. They’ve given us the option of giving any message as long as the participants have the option to leave at any time.
Why would they do this? First, because our partnership has been done with an eye toward excellence. Each year that our stage and decorating is taking place, it amazes the employees of the resort than so many people will do this as volunteers. Second, because it generates income for the resort. At Christmas we are included in their marketing plans. Campground ministry opps will be another promotion that they can utilize if they desire. Any concerts that we perform or host generate gate revenue that otherwise would not exist for them. Third, because they have become convinced that we really have their interest at heart and are not simply looking out for our own. In community partnerships this is a key.
In many communities churches are seen as self absorbed, self focused and disinterested in anyone not already interested in them. Any meaningful partnership will require that churches demonstrate extended, not passing, interest in the benefit of businesses and organizations already in the community. It is this extending of ministry outside the campus parameters that catches the attention of non-believers. Each and every time they ask the question, “Why?” is another opportunity to give a reason of the hope that is in us.
