Outreach Initiatives
Journey Spiritual Growth Programs
One of Outreach's most active projects is offering 'Journey' Spiritual Growth Programs to church congregations all over world. Journey Programs are spiritual development programs that are designed specifically to help congregations reach and serve people in their local communities with New Church spiritual practice. The programs are designed provide an environment friendly to newcomers by offering weekly small group meetings of participants who work through the program curriculum together on their spiritual journey. By coordinating the programs and timing them with so many congregations and groups running them at the same time, both leaders and participants can mutually support each other as they tackle each step. A weekly phone-in meeting allows pastors to compare notes and share ideas. There has been overwhelming support for 'Journey' programs as participants discover the power of applying the Lord's teachings in their lives. In addition, church attendance has been enhanced by people's enthusiasm for being part of an active spiritual growth program. It's also possible to participate in 'Journey' programs online, allowing participants to share insights with each other and receive daily emails providing spiritual direction. Sign up for the next campaign.
The Joseph Project
The Joseph Project is a mentorship initiative designed to assist congregations in becoming strong, self sufficient, and dynamic components of their local communities. Key areas of focus are worship, outreach to newcomers, strategic planning, financial planning, and service. In supporting Churches with expertise and appropriate materials, they will be able to reach more people in a lasting way. The long-term goal is to fully support all New Church congregations in developing countries and 40% of congregations in America by 2012.
Church Planting
The goal of a 'Church Plant' is to identify geographical areas which would benefit from, and be receptive to, a New Church community. Outreach then sends ministers to Plant new congregations in these areas. Previous churches started by Church Plant are the New Church of Boulder Valley, the Philadelphia New Church (a Korean speaking church), and the New Church in Seattle. All are thriving under the leadership of energetic pastors who welcome newcomers each Sunday.