Lake City, Florida
2020
To engage the local community in theological reflection on worship that deepens worshiper’s experience of God by enacting the word of God in many contexts.
Provide a brief summary of the purpose and goal of your grant.
We seek to implement a project that reaches people, in new ways and places, by spreading the word of God and the good news of Jesus Christ beyond the walls of the church. We seek to plan a worship experience that moves people to enact the word of God. We seek to enhance the ability of people to experience God more profoundly leading to individual transformation thus creating a genuine witness in the world with the good news of the gospel thus transforming our communities and the world.
What are two questions that have generated reflection on worship and helped shape your project?
- What are some non-traditional ways for this worship community to proclaim the word of God?
- How can this format raise hope and keep people encouraged when faced with this tri-pandemic.
What impact has your project had on the worship life and habits of the congregation?
Through this project we have seen how to reach people in ways never before thought of. The people engaged in the project stepped up to the plate bringing forth gifts, graces and talents that they did not know they had. We were equipped by the CICW, educated by the workshop facilitators, and empowered by the Holy Spirit. It was through the synergy of these elements we were able to forward a grant project that touched people in unimaginable ways as evidenced by their comments in the chat box.
What have been your greatest challenges (or challenging opportunities)?
Executing this project during the tri-pandemic should have been our greatest challenge yet it became our golden opportunity. Instead of reaching the people in our local community through 2 Praise Festivals, we reached thousands of people via ZOOM and a radio broadcast through a local station. Even more so, we learned that many inmates listened to the program, so we are developing a ministry entitled 'Breakthrough" where in we will proclaim the word of God despite the barriers of prison walls.
What would you like to share with other Project Directors?
This is such an exciting opportunity to follow the leading of the Holy Spirit and watch God work in ways you never thought imaginable. If you come up against what seems to be an obstacle, pray, pray and pray again. I promise God will answer your prayers, people will be blessed. Your spiritual growth and faith formation will exponentially increase in sustainable and everlasting ways.
