OPPORTUNITIES AT EMMANUEL
Emmanuel is an active church, with many programs and opportunities for the entire family. It certainly is not possible to fully explain or describe this aspect of church life, because it is ever changing to better meet the needs of the church family. Generally, it might be said, however, that the church ministry centers around four needs that Christian people have.
- Adult & Youth Camp
- Sunday School Class Activities
- Church Picnics
- Adult Field Trips
- Banquets
- Sport Leagues
- Class Parties
- Cooperative Dinners
- Ladies Missionary Fellowship
- Retreats
- Etc.
- Food pantry: Our church provides a well stocked food pantry for those who are facing a financial need and require this kind of help. This pantry is available at no cost not only to our church family, but also as an outreach to the community.
- Care Groups: Our church family is divided into eight alphabetical care groups, each one headed by a member of the deacon board. Each group caring for the members of its own group. When there is a need, food is taken to the home, hospital calls are made, and general oversight is maintained so that every need is known.
- Financial benevolence: During time of crisis or emergency, we are often able to provided limited financial and/or human assistance. At times we are able to find someone to mow lawns, shovel snow, or fix pluming, or even clean house. Our care groups function best when each member upholds the others in prayer, and shares with the caring deacon any needs or human concerns.
l. SPIRITUAL
It should not be surprising to anyone that the most important aspect of our church is spiritual, and whatever else might be done, it all revolves around our basic spiritual objective. We wish to be known as a Bible-oriented church, with the Bible being the standard of all that we do, teach, believe and live. The family life of our church centers around the three main, weekly ministries on Sunday. In addition, we also have annual evangelistic services, home Bible study groups, retreats, service opportunities such as visitation, counseling opportunities, youth teaching ministries, etc. It is our desire to be available as a resource ministry for any spiritual questions, concerns or needs that you might have. Our well-stocked book and video library is always available for your use, with a staff person in attendance during all services.
In days when it is so easy to "lose" people in programs and BUREAUCRACY, we try very hard to maintain a ministry that is people oriented. Our staff is not only willing but also available, to help with any need or concern.
2. EMOTIONAL
It has often been stated that the most important need a growing Christian has is emotional encouragement. For this reason, we call our church a spiritual and emotional support group. We want you to feel that you can lean on and depend upon the people at Emmanuel, whenever you have a need; whether it be at a time of illness, death or family crisis. It is hoped that the local church not be just a place to go on Sunday morning, but a major part of your life. For it is here where you will receive the greatest amount of encouragement from Gods people. Our Sunday evening testimony service is a great opportunity to give and receive emotional strength and encouragement. Your prayer requests are readily shared with the congregation through our weekly bulletins upon your request.
3. SOCIAL
People who just attend the morning worship service do not receive the "personal touch" that the local church is designed to provide. Social functions and activities are designed to help establish and develop friendships. It really isn't fair to call a church unfriendly and uncaring, if the same people rush out after the morning service is over and never attend any outside activities.
People who take just a little initiative will find that there are always those who are willing to meet you more than half way. So we invite you to stick around after the services. Attend the monthly singspirations and class activities and church dinners, and you will find your efforts rewarded by many friends that will enhance the meaning of local church involvement.
4. PHYSICAL
Members of our church family often have physical needs as well as the others mentioned. While we are not equipped or able to provide for every human need, we at least try to help.
CONCLUSION
For one aspect of church life to be overemphasized will ultimately cause imbalance and ultimately a void in the lives of some people. Therefore, we are always trying to keep our ministry in proper perspective and balance. The Bible says that we are "Complete in Christ" (Col. 2:7), and certainly the local church should be busy ministering to the "total man."
This can only be a reality, though with total church involvement. We close this message by asking: "How can you help?"