For a number of years leaders of our denomination have been declaring the Global Methodist Church a “new expression” of Methodism. Our declaration is true; we are new and enjoy that freshness! Our declaration is true which also demands great effort to multiply ministry in truly new ways.
One obvious multiplication is creating a culture of the call to grow a new generation of called spiritual leaders to lead in mission, from the pulpit and pew.
Pastors Zach Kingery and Mike Morgan, adult workers and youth from 5 GMC congregations in Iowa who feel a spiritual nudge, a deep sense of calling from the Lord unmistakenly rooted deeply in their lives recently took a first step. Together, they created an event entitled “The Call” which was held at Anchor Bible Church in Center Point, IA March 5th and 6th.
Planned nearly entirely by students “The Call” weekend included worship, keynote speakers, panel discussions, seminars, prayer and discernment time aimed at helping students define the “what” to which they believe God is calling them. Twenty-two students (10th – 12th graders) representing nine churches in Iowa and one in Minnesota were encouraged to become, as God calls them; missionaries, lay persons and vocational ministers.
They are now connected in Wesleyan “bands” and will be mentored by willing pastors and laypersons eager to assist them in the discernment of their call.
While “The Call” was aimed at high school students in Iowa the leadership is happy to help other areas and age groups replicate or build events of this manner across the Upper Midwest Conference.
