FAMILY MINISTRIES

We emphasize family life: The institution of the family has undergone significant change in the past two decades. Single parents, stepfamilies, children raised by one or both grandparents, and a variety of other life situations have become common ways in which children are prepared to face life in our modern world. We value families of every kind and emphasize education in biblical principles for healthy family relationships.

We emphasize children's ministry: Eighty-five percent of Christians made the decision to give their lives to Christ before the age of 18. Healthy, growing churches are churches that invest in children through age-appropriate Christian education, a Christ-centered nursery program, children's church, and fun-filled, meaningful Christian activities and social opportunities for children. We value children and place high priority on an active children's ministry in each congregation.

We emphasize women's ministry: In a world that can often be painful, unfair and even hostile for women, God calls them to know the peace, comfort and assurance that is theirs in Jesus Christ. He wants women to know that he loves them, values them and calls them to a fulfilling and active life of Christian fellowship and ministry. Through women's ministry, we seek to support and encourage Christian women in their walk with the Lord and in their leadership and service to the church and community.

We emphasize young adults' ministry: Today's young adults face increasingly complicated life decisions about education, career and family for which they desperately need sound biblical teaching and guidance. We are committed to helping young adults develop a basis for Christ-centered decision-making that will keep them on the road to a life of faithful servant-leadership.

We emphasize men's ministry: A crisis of godly leadership in American men led to the Promise Keepers movement. Recognizing the vital need in our families for godly husbands and fathers who are sensitive to the Holy Spirit and courageous in Christ, we support the goals of Promise Keepers and men to be active in ministry.

We emphasize small group worship: Every Christian is called into active fellowship with the Body of Christ. Personal spiritual growth is fostered in the context of small group life. We encourage participation, in a non-threatening setting at one's own comfort level, in small group worship. Such small group worship settings provide opportunity to get to know other Christians, to worship and praise God, discuss questions, study the Bible, share concerns, pray and receive prayer in a nonjudgmental environment. Small groups are an ideal way for guests and visitors to become familiar with Christian faith and practice in a comfortable, supportive and pressure-free setting.