New Summit News

Click to view this email in a browser

Read more of February 5 Newsletter here. Weekly Newsletter - February 5, 2015                                From Pastor Dave Dear Friends,  One of our Strategic Initiatives for New Summit involves a commitment to foster spiritual formation through coaching relationships. As I've been prayerfully considering the use of my own gifts and talents in pursuit of this objective, I wanted to let you know of some opportunities that I'd like to pursue with those who may be interested. Here's a grocery list of some things I'm thinking about. I'll share these in other forums as well, and I'm hopeful that some of you will respond expressing your interest.  1. A group meeting together around the topic of Spiritual Formation. There are so many good resources. Here are three that I would love to explore with a group. The Good and Beautiful God, by James Bryan Smith. Crafting a Rule of Life, by Steve Macchia. Life Together in Christ: Experiencing Transformation in Community, by Ruth Haley Barton. Each book would offer a framework for a group meeting between 6-12 times.  2. A group meeting together around the basic beliefs of Christianity. The Alpha program is an outstanding program, covering the basics of faith in a community building and non-threatening way. The group shares a meal together, watches a video presentation, and then shares conversation.  3. New Summit 101. We offer this group about once or twice a year, for those interested in learning more about New Summit. The group serves as a membership class, but you may participate without feeling obligated to join the church. The group offers an opportunity to learn about the basics of Christianity and the mission and vision of New Summit. You'll also get acquainted with some others.  4. Individual coaching. Do you have a goal you're pursuing? It might be in any area of life, including your spiritual life in Christ. Have you ever considered working with a coach to help you focus on the goals you've identified? I'd be happy to work with you. Normally, we would set up a plan to meet together 6 times over 3 months. Meetings can be in person or by phone. My goal is to come alongside, listen to your hopes and dreams, and ask the kind of questions to help you move towards the goals you've identified.  Let me know if something on this list would be meaningful for you. We'll see if others are interested, and work together to build a group or to set up the individual meetings if you go with the coaching option.  Remember that the call to spiritual formation isn't just a program or emphasis of our congregation. The call of Jesus for us to follow is at the very center of our understanding of faith. There are many ways to be answering the call. Even if there isn't something on the list I've offered, don't miss the opportunity to take new steps of faith and formation during this new year.   In Christ's Love,  Pastor Dave