An Invite from Pastor Jeff: Compelled By Love!
This is an invite from Pastor Jeff McLain.
In 2012, Baker Books released the first edition of a book called Art of Neighboring. This book was authored by Pastors Dave Runyon and Jay Pathak. Drawing on the success of their own church campaign, these two pastors help readers learn to value, respect, and care for the people who live in their neighborhoods. The tagline to this book was, “building genuine relationships right outside your door.”
I have been referring this book, Art of Neighboring, for many years. In addition to fueling my own interests, involvements, and initiatives; this book also led to a series at East Petersburg Mennonite Church and many other places in which I have been invited to share about my own neighborhood initiatives and involvements. Often, I use the “tic-tac-toe” life-shape tool from this book in my own neighborhood connections, for our church community’s neighborhood connections, and as a tool to share with those beginning to walk out what it means to love their neighbor in a way that moves them from strangers, to acquaintances and finally into relationship.
Water Street Mission is bringing Dave Runyon into Lancaster, to talk about neighboring, at an event called, “Compelled By Love 2018.” Not only do I plan to be at this event, but I want to invite you to be present for it as well. I think this is going to be a great resource for churches who are not only exploring their neighborhood as a mission, but those of us who are invested in difference-making in our neighborhoods.
Dave Runyon serves as the Executive Director of CityUnite, which helps government, business, and faith leaders unite around common causes. Previously, Dave was a pastor for nine years at Foothills Community Church and The Next Level Church. In 2010 he launched a joint church neighboring movement that has mobilized over 100 churches and 50,000 people in the Denver Metro area. That experience prompted him to co-author The Art of Neighboring, which was published by Baker Books in 2012. Dave lives in Colorado with his wife, Lauren, and their four kids.
Alongside Dave Runyon at Compelled By Love 2018, will be Chuck Holt and Dan Jurman. Chuck leads The Factory Ministries, and Dan Jurman is the CEO of the Community Action Program (CAP). This is an excellent resource for those who are leading church communities into the neighborhood on mission.
In a fast-paced, transactional society, it can be hard enough to motivate our people to invest their time in outreach projects. So, how do we get them to make loving our neighbors a way of life? Your team doesn’t have to be alone in dealing with this core issue. There’s strength in pooling our experience and working together to transform our Lancaster County community. You’ll enjoy and be encouraged by the wisdom and experiences from 3 seasoned thought leaders in this arena. But this is not a day to sit quietly and take notes only to walk away overwhelmed or unsure how to get started. Throughout the day, you’ll have the opportunity to work with your fellow ministry leaders – sharing what’s been effective, what hasn’t … and brainstorming new ways to approach “loving our neighbor.”
Breakfast and lunch are included for those attending Compelled By Love 2018.
I will be attending, and I am inviting you as well. Tickets are only $24. I look forward to seeing you there!
- Pastor Jeff
