In our work at CRCC, we often interact with faith leaders who have wonderful plans for publicly engaged ministries and outreach programs. Indeed, our definition of a thriving congregation includes the twin ideas that they provide both a context for the development of the personal and spiritual lives of their members and that they are outward-facing, seeking to serve the needs of their communities.
Is working in the community as simple as coming up with an idea and enlisting a few volunteers? What must churches consider when developing an outward-facing ministry or program? What are the opportunities and potential pitfalls? How can you build on your good intentions in a way that makes both your church and your community stronger?
As part of the USC Center for Religion and Civic Culture’s Reimagining Church Initiative series, Program Manager of the Cecil Murray Center for Civic Engagement, Rev Dr. Najuma Smith Pollard moderated a conversation with Hyepin Im from Faith and Community Empowerment (FACE), Professor Tabatha Jones-Jolivet from Azusa Pacific University, and Becky Teter from Fountain of Life Covenant Church.
