New Ministry: A Journey in Time

We are reminded in Proverbs 29:18 that without a vision people perish. As ministry leaders we understand the importance of a vision. We have thought about, tweaked, and pictured the results of the vision. The challenges come when we start sharing the vision.

New visions for a ministry begin by spending time with God to seek His guidance and to unite with Him in ministry. This involves living Romans 12:1-2—to offer ourselves to God and to be transformed by focusing our minds on Him.

Kerrie Palmer in the Women’s Ministries Handbook for Leaders writes “Once you have committed all of yourself to God, your next step is to be transformed continually by the renewing of your mind. Through this act and process, you will be able to discern God’s will for you and your ministry (p.54).

A new vision often reflects the leaders’ dreams and passions, giving energy and strength to face the obstacles. Palmer also suggests that with the vision comes a contagious spirit that enables the ministry’s leadership to follow. During this stage, the leadership team spends time together praying for God’s direction as they develop new ministry strategies.

Conceptualizing the vision is the longest period of time. This gives leaders time to name potential problems, to recognize or find ministry opportunities, and to identify potential issues. This is also a time of intense praying for people who will “work” the ministry and for the lives that will be touched by it.

Moving a vision to reality may be the most challenging timeframe. The length of this stage varies from short to quite lengthy. While this stage anticipates new beginnings, it can also be a critical time. Some ministries appear to fall into place with little effort. Others struggle as they finalize details, gain support, find financial support, and overcome other obstacles.

It is easy to loose sight of the vision as this stage continues longer than anticipated. Ministry leaders need to monitor the reactions of others, offer encouragement through the process, and keep people focused on the vision.

Finally, the vision is implemented. There is excitement and joy over the new ministry and stories of transformed lives. With the ministry in place, wise leaders remember it is still a new one. It still requires time, nurture, encouragement, support, and prayer.

Visions are exciting as they bring renewed passion to the ministry. They also present many challenges as visions are shared. New visions are essential for a ministry to remain healthy and effective.

Keep dreaming!