Exploring Central Church

By Dave & Barbara Darbutt

Most of you are aware that Central recently welcomed 18 committed Christians to our church family. I am sure you are also aware that we have not had a Senior Pastor in quite some time. Now most people shy away from joining a church with no minister. But as Steve Simms says, "We are not without a minister, we have more than 700!" I sense that the people who recently became part of Central, not only understood this, but embrace it. God is truly working in our midst!

Beginning January 12th, Central will welcome newcomers into our church family at the 10:00 am Sunday school hour with a class and time for fellowship called "The Open Door." We would encourage anyone looking for an entrance point into the life of Central to take advantage of this exciting opportunity. You will find this class in Trinity on the Concourse. The format will be: welcoming/fellowship, a short time of teaching, and small group discussion.

In early March, we will begin our next New Member Exploration Class. The time will be 9:45am - 11:00am. Barb and I have completed new member classes in several churches in the last 30 years and we can promise you that the material covered and the format of the classes at Central is nothing short of amazing!

Below is a list of material that will be covered:

• Session 1 - "Your Personal Relationship with Christ"
• Session 2 - "All about Central: Past, Present, and Future"
• Session 3 - "All about Central: What Makes Us Distinctive - Belief and Practice"
• Session 4 - "Growing as Disciples of Jesus Christ: Prayer, Bible Study, and Small Groups"
• Session 5 - "The Nature and Expression of Worship"
• Session 6 - "Stewardship of All of Life"
• Session 7 - "Meeting the Staff" "Ministry and Ministering at Central"
• Session 8 - "What It Means to Join Central: The Next Steps"

What makes these classes so amazing is not just the wealth of information. (Although we have great teachers!) And it's not just the food. (Although we have some wonderful cooks in our midst!) I believe most people would agree it is the relationships that are formed during discussion and small group time.

If you are interested in finding out more about Central, even if you are not sure you are ready for membership, I encourage you to attend an "Open Door" class. Also, check the church membership box on the welcome card in the pew and turn it in during the offering. You may also call Barb and me or Gayle and Bob Shank.

God's Blessing to each of you in 2003