I know we are not entirely out of the woods as far as this pandemic is concerned, with new variants emerging and cautions about possible surges. But I just have to say how grateful I am to see our ministry begin to get back on track. Worship attendance is slowly returning to pre-Covid levels and we are seeing first time guests every week. After missing last year, we are going back to Soulfest next week with the largest group we have ever taken. For the first time ever, we completely sold out of tickets weeks prior to the start. Day Camp is also maxed out on its registration
I'm also excited to announce that the Men's Summit is back and better than ever. It will be held on October 8-10 at Camp Brookwoods. We have an amazing speaker coming that I can't wait to hear. Guys, if you haven't registered yet, you can get all the info at this link. We are also launching a brand new program this fall entitled Mastering Motherhood. I think this is going to be one of the most important and effective outreach ministries we have ever offered. Ladies, you will be hearing more about this in the near future.
Of course, there are some areas we still need significant help with. Right now I would say the area of ministry we most urgently need to redevelop is our children's and student ministries. Nextgen, our Sunday morning children's program, was hit particularly hard by the shutdown. While we were able to do a lot of adult ministry online, that's simply did not translate well to children's ministry. Unfortunately, the same is true of our youth ministry. So effective immediately, we are putting a significant emphasis on reimagining, redeveloping and re-staffing these essential areas.
To help us move forward in these important areas, I am announcing today a Family Ministry Campaign. Normally when we do a campaign, it is a financial drive around a special initiative. But this is not a financial drive. It is a recruitment drive. In order to offer well supported children's and youth ministry at all three Rock Church locations, we need at least 50 people who have a heart for children or teens who would be willing to serve in some capacity in this important area. If you think you might be interested in getting involved in some capacity in this essential, life-changing area of ministry, I would invite you to visit this link.
Of course, building the team is only a portion of what must be done. Once we get the team in place we will need everyone's help in getting out the invitation to families in our communities. We need your help in letting those around us know that children and youth ministry is back at The Rock, better than ever. I would also ask all of us to keep this in prayer. You might even consider joining us for Prayer For our Students on Thursday nights. This Thursday at 6:30 will be gathering at the Danville Elementary School to pray. We would love for you to join us.
While there is much to be done to get fully back on track, we know that God is with us. And with His help there's nothing we cannot do. I look forward to us all being together on Sunday for worship as we continue our series “Backstage.”
God bless,
Pastor Steve
Reminder: Don’t forget to take a moment and complete the annual pastoral survey for the Staff Parish Relations committee. You can do it right online at this link.
One last thing: Next Tuesday (Aug 3) we will be loading up the Uhaul for Soulfest. There is a LOT to pack and many hands make light work. If anyone is free and would like to help, please meet at the Rock Plaistow at 10:00 am. Look for the big Uhaul!