Ministry Partnership

 

 

For the last century or more, whenever a person has indicated a commitment to follow Jesus and to worship and serve him in that local church, we’ve been calling them members. However, it is our belief that a better way to talk and think about the relationship between the individual and their local church is ministry partnership. Several other Free Methodist churches have been moving to a ministry partnership model, with great success and support from the denomination. Our church board and ministry staff have gone through the thinking and the materials and process behind this with great intention and attention to detail, and we’re now ready to present it to you.

From a biblical perspective, we read the Apostle Paul using the word “partner” in his communication with the Philippian church: In all my prayers for all of you, I always pray with joy because of your partnership in the gospel from the first day until now, being confident of this, that he who began a good work in you will carry it on to completion until the day of Christ Jesus (Philippians 1:4-6). We are partners together in spreading and living out the gospel of Jesus, and we’re glad for it. Paul’s words are our prayer and our hope for you!
 
Being a ministry partner is not required for participation in the gatherings, ministries and groups at Creekside, but it does indicate that you are ready to become more involved in furthering the mission of the church. Partners are able to oversee ministries, vote at our annual meeting, serve on committees, and are qualified to serve on our church board or staff, if called upon to do so. 
 

Not sure whether you’re ready to be a ministry partner or not? That’s ok! But these questions, which will be asked of every person looking to become a partner, might help you as you consider the invitation:

  • Are you confident that God has forgiven your sins through faith in Jesus Christ?
  • Are you determined, by God’s grace, to be Christlike in heart and life, opening yourself fully to the ministry of the Holy Spirit and the nurture and fellowship of the church?
  • Do you believe that the Bible is God’s written word, uniquely inspired by the Holy Spirit, and do you accept its authority and guidance in your life and in the life of the church?
  • Do you believe that you are ready to partner with the beliefs, goals and leadership of the Free Methodist Church and Creekside Chapel?
  • Will you do so by sacrificially and faithfully offering to God and others your time, talents and resources?

If you are ready to answer each of these with a “yes,” then you are ready to have a conversation with one of our pastors about partnership! If you are unsure or unable to answer yes to one or more of these questions, we would also encourage you to consider speaking with a pastor about your questions or concerns.