Q6. How are we developing our members in Christian maturity?

Christian maturity begins with the understanding that Jesus loves us and wants to have a relationship with us. As we grow in our knowledge of Him, we learn to trust Him. When we trust, we open our hearts and minds to His leading and our behaviors, activities and values begin to change. This maturing of personal faith finds expression in transformed lives, changed relationships, and a commitment to God's service in our local and global communities.

Life-long learning programs are Bible based and Christ centered. Our theology is based on the Lutheran understanding of law, gospel, human nature, redemption and Christian purpose. (Calvary's Theological Values) Our educational programs emphasize spiritual growth, Christian discipleship, service and stewardship as an outgrowth of faith and commitment. Grace and the power of the Holy Spirit fuel our behaviors and activities.

All people are called to be in a growing relationship with Jesus Christ. Infants, children, youth and adults all have room to grow in their faith. We recognize that the primary place where faith is nurtured is in the home with the parents as the top influencers of faith development in their children. 80% of Christians make a personal commitment to Jesus Christ before the age of 18. For these reasons, Calvary places an emphasis on equipping and supporting parents and grandparents to pass on their faith by bringing "Christ-like" living into the home.

Childhood learning focuses on faith, celebration, music, service and missions. Our children need and want to know God and they want to have friends. From early childhood through confirmation our programs provide opportunities for learning and building relationships with other children and adults as role models.

Preschoolers begin their faith journey in our childcare programs. Programs are designed to get the children's attention and then to teach them creatively. Prayer and God's love are introduced and reinforced in the home.

Grace Place (Sunday school) provides our children with stimulating environments, worship and music. Mission projects and service involvements help them learn about God's love and the importance of sharing and serving. Faith Journey Events bring children, parents and grandparents together for learning and faith building experiences. During the summer months, Camp Wapo and Vacation Bible School bridge the school year with new relationships in an intentional Christian community.

Youth and families grow together in their faith. Confirmation focuses on learning more about their personal faith that was received in baptism. Retreats, Lenten faith mentoring, mission and service projects provide experiential learning and adult member support. Wednesday Night Live provides a venue for worship and small group sharing that continues through senior high school. Parents are included for support and sharing.

Our senior high youth ministry emphasizes the importance of a Christian commitment as teens encounter difficult choices in the world. Teens develop an understanding that their self-image is grounded in their relationship with Jesus Christ and His unconditional love is always there for them. Christian friends, parents and adults support youth and families who struggle with critical issues.

A summer mission trip, service projects, musicals and a multitude of other programs strengthen Christian relationships that last well into adulthood. The power and relevance of this ministry attracts not only our members but also other teens throughout our area.

Young adults connect with each other to grow in their faith. The twenty to thirty year olds frequently disconnect from church when they graduate, leave home and begin to attain independence. Through service opportunities and social activities these young adults develop close friendships and supportive Christian relationships. Small groups are open to all young adults, including non-believers and the unchurched.

Adult Bible studies, education and life application learning promote spiritual maturity. Adults of all ages and stages of Christian maturity participate in bible studies. Intergenerational sharing broadens our understanding of Jesus Christ and encourages a Christian approach to life’s issues, opportunities and purpose. Groups also gather by age and common interest for a biblical focus on lifestyle topics. Courses are also offered to all members by pastors and trained leaders on specific Bible topics. Daily readings are available throughout the church year.

We value the importance of a forum for Christian dialogue in a changing and challenging world. Pastors, experienced leaders and outside experts provide insight and understanding for critical social and religious issues. Mission trips and tours are coordinated to bring first hand experiences and education back to our church community. Visiting missionaries help us understand the nature of God's work around the world.

Life transitions are often a time for reflection and re-engagement. Educational formats provide a Christian perspective as we evaluate choices and make decisions. Classes and support are available for marriage, parenting, retirement, divorce, grief, health problems and other life change issues.

 

Strategic Imperative #6: Focus on continuous enhancement and increased participation in life long learning programs.

next, Strategic Assessment - Question 7 and Answer

Calvary Lutheran Church of Golden Valley
7520 Golden Valley Road, Golden Valley Minnesota 55427 [see map]
Telephone: 763.545.5659 | Fax: 763.545.6953

Sunday Worship: 8:00 a.m.; 8:45 a.m.; 10:00 a.m.; 11:15 a.m.;
Thursday Worship: 6:30 p.m.

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