BradHoffmann.com

You’ve probably heard a few talking points over the past months. Leadership is involved in a “what’s next” conversation, a topic for quite some time.

There are both givens and variables in the discussion. The givens are the intentional “things” we must do in supporting the mission to reach and develop all people into fully committed followers of Jesus. Life Groups (missional communities) and adding a contemporary venue at third hour (11:00 a.m.) are examples of givens.

This January, an all new emphasis prioritizing Life Groups (missional communities) as our primary adult discipleship vehicle will launch. I’m convinced we must be in the neighborhoods, homes and public spaces being intentionally relational and missional.

Real discipleship (spiritual formation) happens individually with God as we learn from Him, in community with others as we learn from and hold one another accountable and through serving where we learn through giving of ourselves.

I’m passionate about Life Groups; the shift is foundational. Come January, I’m asking everyone who is not currently engaged in a Life Group or Sunday morning Bible Study to join a newly formed or existing Life Group. Everyone needs to be involved in a group; it is where we form through learning, relating and serving. So get ready!  Additionally, I’m going to ask current and willing Sunday morning Bible Study classes to move off the Sunday morning schedule (adopting a more missional community focus) and by doing so creates additional needed space for Children’s Ministry, Student Ministry and Bridge Builders on Sundays. Now, I fully expect some Sunday morning Bible Study classes will not be able to accommodate a move and that’s okay, I just want to give everyone the opportunity.

You will hear much about maximization in the upcoming conversations. Leadership is intentionally pursuing a plan that does not include building an additional building at Atlee Station in the near future. I do anticipate the need to purchase additional property and create more parking, but that’s another story for later. The goal is not to overbuild facility, but to strategically maximize the use of our current campus making appropriate upgrades and updates along the way. We can be better stewards of our space as we move toward a long term multi-site solution. By not building, we’re choosing not to spend millions on a new facility. Personally, if I had to choose between spending eight million dollars on new construction or to spend millions through missions, I’d choose the mission hands down. The mission is clear, people matter. By adjusting our current schedule and venues, we can create space for many more people at Cool Spring without a burdensome financial commitment.

Later in 2017, most likely in the fall, we’ll add a more contemporary service at the third hour (11:00 am) in the Worship Center. Originally, I hoped for an earlier start date but, due to logistical concerns specifically related to technology and personnel, it became apparent we needed more time to do this well. Anything worth doing is worth doing right. Excellence in this case demands more time.

In the months ahead, stay close to the conversation. Ask good questions and provide honest feedback. All in all, let’s keep the mission as our focus.