Q4: Is God a living presence in our church?

We believe that God must always be at the center of everything we do. If God is present in our activities and decisions, we can have assurance we are following His plan for our church.

Our members sense God's presence in worship experiences. Our members enjoy reaching up to God in worship and adoration. They appreciate the Lutheran traditions and inspirational sermons that communicate the unchanging message of the gospel in a changing world. The sacraments are revered and celebrated. God's presence extends into a culture of fellowship following worship events, which are faith building as well as social.

Mixes of traditional and contemporary services in variable settings provide meaningful expression for diverse backgrounds and age groups. Relevant worship experiences are also designed for children, teens, young adults and families so they may encounter God's presence within their lifestyle group.

Our members sense God's presence in music. Calvary is blessed with talented musicians and directors that guide us in worship and special events.

All ages and interests can be accommodated in vocal and instrumental groups. Included in music training is a focus on prayer and Christian behaviors that reflect God’s presence when using his gift of musical talent. Youth and teens praise God and learn spiritual concepts through participation in choirs, musicals, and concerts.

Our members sense God's presence in prayer. Our members believe that prayer is key to an intimate relationship with Jesus Christ. Prayer ministries flourish in an atmosphere of trust, acceptance, love and mutual forbearance. We seek God's presence in all of our gatherings and ask him to reveal his will when we make decisions.

Our members sense God's presence when we minister to one another. A holistic approach to health, emotional pain and spiritual issues is grounded in relational ministry. We minister to one another with faith and expectation that the Holy Spirit will work through us to bring healing, encouragement, and support for our lives. Pastoral care, prayer and healing services reveal God's presence to those in need as they adapt to changing life experiences.

Our members sense God's presence in small groups. Small groups provide belonging and intimacy within our large church. There is strong evidence of changed lives and transformed relationships as these communities of people care, share, learn, serve and pray for each other. While most of these groups have organized for the purpose of creating community, the power of God's presence has created an opportunity to weave elements of this group formation into task and service groups.

Our members sense God's presence when we study His word. We are nurtured on our journey through study and discussion of the bible. Our members gather to learn, share and grow in understanding of His love and promises. All ages and stages of Christian maturity have a path for discovery of God's everyday presence in their lives.

Our members sense God's presence in our homes. We value the presence of God in our families and recognize that our witness passes on the faith from one generation to the next. Our ministries are called to equip children, youth, and adults to bring the message of Christ into the world where they live, work and play.

Our members sense God's presence as we serve. Our talents are recognized as gifts from God to be used in service of others. We are energized and sustained by God's presence when we are using them for His purpose. We help our members discover their individual talents and passions and encourage them to apply them to service opportunities in our church, local and global communities.

Our members sense God's presence when we witness. As we grow in our relationship with Jesus Christ we become more aware of His presence in our everyday lives. We can walk in grace and share our reliance on Him with others. We can claim His love and our faith in His promises when encountering difficulties. We can go into the world equipped to carry the good news of what He has done for us.

Strategic Imperative #4: Maintain a focus on God’s presence during a time of rapid growth.

next, Strategic Assessment - Question 5 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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