The Five Practices of Fruitful Congregations

The Five Practices of Fruitful Congregations
by Bishop Robert Schnase of the Missouri Conference of the United Methodist Church.
• Radical Hospitality
• Passionate Worship
• Intentional Faith Development
• Risk-Taking Mission and Service
• Extravagant Generosity
Bishop Schnase has written an incredible book to help the church in this modern era as we strive to define who and what we are in the 21st century.

“Each of the practices, Schnase said, is designed to stretch everyone’s imagination and focus them on ministry in Jesus’ mode.”

“These words capture the core process by which God uses congregations to make disciples - congregations offer the gracious invitation, welcome, and hospitality of Christ so that people experience a sense of belonging; God shapes souls and changes minds through worship, creating a desire to grow closer to Christ; God's Spirit nurtures people and matures faith through learning in community; with increased spiritual maturity, people discern God's call to help others through mission and service; and God inspires people to give generously of themselves so that others can receive the grace they have known. (p.7)”

Over the next few weeks we will look at each practice in greater depth. I believe that as we make these practices more a part of our lives our faith will deepen and the church will be blessed.