June 19, 2013

My blogs have decreased in frequency this month. I am not sure the reason, but imagine that it is mainly related to my schedule. As Springfield hosted the 4 days of Annual Conference, the gathering of all United Methodist pastors and an equal number of lay members from all the churches in Missouri, I was busy hosting meals and leading the Board of Ordained Ministry in several events. Today I am heading to Dallas for a conversation about leadership in the United Methodist Church, especially concerning how we attract and empower younger clergy leaders. Following is the article I wrote for the "Pastor's Pen" of this week's church newsletter:

In August we will launch a worship service in the downtown area as part of our college-age ministries. Pastor Matt Kerner will lead the service, Brian Mattson will lead the music. As we lean into our third year of intentional ministry among college students, we will bring a Wesley worship service as a second campus of our Republic Road main campus. I have noticed that members of Wesley have an affinity for the downtown area – shopping, dining, attending sporting events and concerts. After much prayerful discernment, the time is right to offer a worship service in the downtown area.

The service will launch on August 18 as the college students return to classes. We have made arrangements with the St. Paul UMC to use their sanctuary for this 11:30 am service. The music will incorporate the rich tradition of hymns and high quality modern worship music. The message will be delivered by Pastor Matt Kerner on most Sundays, and often will follow the themes used at our main campus. There will be nursery care and children’s worship for kids through 5^th grade.

This new worship experience is designed to reach new people. There are approximately 40,000 residents under the age of 30 within 2 miles of downtown. More than 50% of this population considers itself spiritual but does not participate in any faith community. Even as the goal is to reach more college students, people of all ages are encouraged to attend this service, as research indicates most college students prefer to worship in a multi-generational context.

I look forward to the ways God will use this endeavor to expand His Kingdom through Wesley United Methodist Church whose mission is to develop more disciples of Jesus Christ who worship, care and serve.