Regain, Renew, Reflect…
This year has been a year of integrating lessons and embracing transformation through the Missional Movement. I have been exploring principles of transformation and using applicable assessments to determine needs, interests, and the health of the local church. It has also been a year for me to regain focus and seek God for a renewed covenant with His will through prayer, conversation and revelation of the Holy Spirit.
I have taken the journey of defining transformation with my colleagues, churches, co-labors and sisters and brothers throughout the denomination. We have explored strategies on how to discern the voice of God through prayer and by sharing knowledge and experiences. These experiences have afforded me and others the opportunity to reflect on the mission of the church and its past, present and future viability.
While I have had many conversations, pondered the Word of God vehemently, and learned from some of the finest theologians, I am able to authentically report to you that God is still in control of His mission. We are a part of God’s mission and it is an honor to be called and chosen to serve with you as we yield to the power of the Holy Spirit and discern the Will of God as a family.
It is with a humble spirit that I walk alongside several churches to experience the love and joy of God through mission endeavors. The Missional Church Learning Experience has become a movement that demonstrates life, energy and excitement that is reflected through the tagline “Missional Movement.” Jesus modeled the ultimate methodology for having a presence with people. As recorded in John 1:14: “And the Word was made flesh, and dwelt among us, (and we beheld his glory, the glory as of the only begotten of the Father,) full of grace and truth.”
I experienced a spiritual metamorphosis on a pilgrimage to Thailand. I hope to someday be able to eloquently articulate my experience in words. The divine revelation of God’s presence was life changing during my visit.
It has been a rigorous and rewarding year. The opportunity to preach in some of the local churches; work with pastoral search committees; find places for congregations to worship, lead a Missional Church Learning Community in the Rocky Mountain Region, and partner with American Baptist Home Mission Society (ABHMS) to lead a Missional Church Learning Community in Detroit; participate in Mediation training; present on a panel at the American Baptist Women’s conference; present to the National Facilitators of the Missional Church Learning Community in Green Lake, Wisconsin; organize and lead cluster meetings; attend a Minister’s Council retreat; and work with my fellow colleagues is the epitome of Romans 12:11: “ Never be lacking in zeal, but keep your spiritual fervor, serving the Lord.”
Mary Tellis
Ministry and Mission Coach
Denver and Northern Front Range Clusters
