However, what we do know is that another narrative is proliferating in U.S. churches: the idea that "everyone is a missionary." This redefinition of mission and what constitutes a missionary influences the need to recruit and send long-term workers. I wish it were not so, but it is a dominant theme that permeates most churches.
Thanks for sharing this. I have been guilty of sharing this narrative and it's helpful to hear from you that it is not an honest appraisal. I'll be more careful in how I frame the issue moving forward. I also plan to share this with our staff. Good stuff as always !!
However, what we do know is that another narrative is proliferating in U.S. churches: the idea that "everyone is a missionary." This redefinition of mission and what constitutes a missionary influences the need to recruit and send long-term workers. I wish it were not so, but it is a dominant theme that permeates most churches.
Yes, Laura, you are spot on with this idea. The use of the word "missional" is a part of this redefinition (that might be a good article to write!).
Thank you for the honest accounting. It's too easy to get excited about numbers.
Thanks for sharing this. I have been guilty of sharing this narrative and it's helpful to hear from you that it is not an honest appraisal. I'll be more careful in how I frame the issue moving forward. I also plan to share this with our staff. Good stuff as always !!
Thanks, Jim!