Fall is an important time for most churches. The transition from summer programing to the school year brings a number of changes with it. The transition is also a good time to think through what missions looks like at our churches.  Here are some areas to consider:

Vision Casting

The Church has been given the vital task of taking the message of salvation through Jesus to the world. We are commanded to preach the gospel to the nations, but how will they preach unless they are sent (Romans 10:15)? Churches can cast vision through preaching on missions, teaching about it in Sunday schools and small groups, and through other means such as a book discussions. If we do not talk about it, we will forget about it. Cast the vison!

Short-term Planning

Is your church sending out a short-term team next year? If so, this is the time to start planning. A lot must come together to make a trip like this happen. The team must be recruited. Funds must be raised. Training must begin. Tickets must be bought. Now is the time to get on that!

Missions Budget Priorities

Many churches set their budgets in the winter, often in January. Yet even if your church operates on a different cycle, the fall is a great time for the missions team to consider and evaluate who they are funding. Are some missionaries retiring? Are new missionaries going out? How much should be allocated to local ministry, international ministry, church planting, support, evangelism, Bible teaching, etc? These are good questions, and we should take the time to think them through.

Mission Mobilizer Visit

Perhaps as you read the list above, you do not know where to start. If that is the case, you are not alone! And fortunately, the North Central District has staff to help. Contact Dave Bliss or Steve Austvold.  We love to meet with missions teams and pastors to talk through how your church can do its part in obeying the great commission!