Bill and I returned from the FXUM National Gathering a week ago, and we’ve returned with renewed energy and inspiration for Fresh Expressions ministry and our work. I have even already connected with a faith-based nonprofit in Anacostia to launch a Fresh Expression that’s been on my heart. I will teach women how to make their own organic sandwich bread while leading a Bible study and sharing time for a “Mom’s Night Out” program. I’m very excited to begin this ministry as helping mothers and single parents is very close to my heart. You could say it’s one of my passions.
Oftentimes, when God is calling us to launch a Fresh Expression, the mission field is connected to what we are passionate about. During our time at the FXUM National Gathering, I spent my breakout session time with the “Nerd Pastor,” the Rev. Nathan (Nate) Webb, pastor of Checkpoint Church, a completely online worship community. Checkpoint Church started because of Pastor Nate’s passion for video games. He developed an online community through playing video games, which he transformed into an online worship community through care and intention. We also met people who started “Yoga Church,” ministry opportunities through board games, and evangelistic ministries through coffee. One of the reasons why I love Fresh Expressions is because this concept of ministry takes the Holy Spirit out of the box. We don’t have to have traditional church and all that it includes in order to preach and spread the Gospel of Jesus Christ. You can talk about Jesus and disciple people on a digital platform, while making bread in a kitchen, or even in a tattoo shop. The sky is the limit. In the scriptures, Jesus met people and transformed their lives in unconventional places and spaces people didn’t expect him to frequent. We can do the same through innovative and creative ministry.
If you’re wrestling with how and where to launch a Fresh Expression, start with your passions. What are you passionate about? What or who in the community constantly has your attention? Are you constantly concerned about families living in motels? Do you want to provide a ministry for children and youth? Are you passionate about people in recovery? Is it your gym family? Your mission field just might be where you are already present and building relationships.
If you’re willing, share examples of how God transformed your passion into ministry opportunities to inspire others to launch out into the deep.