SERVICE TO OTHERS

This window in the south wall of our sanctuary depicts the basin and towel which symbolize Jesus serving the disciples by washing their feet. Jesus stressed the importance of helping the poor, sick, imprisoned, and other disadvantaged people. We are called to serve one another with humility and love.

Using God's Gifts for Mission and Evangelism

"All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me. Go therefore and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, and teaching them to obey everything that I have commanded you. And remember, I am with you always, to the end of the age."

(Matthew 28:19-20)

The passage above is known as the Great Commission. It is Jesus' personal mission statement for all who believe in him as Lord and Savior. As his disciples, we share the good news of the Gospel through word and deed, with as many people as possible. As we do so others are moved to live by Jesus' teachings of service to the poor, sick, imprisoned, and disadvantaged.

We live up to Jesus' Great Commission when we make good use of our time, talents, and tithe.

Time

We make decisions about how to structure our time in ways that honor God and each other. We do not accept the idea that being busy is "just the way life is." We recognize that the time we spend in worship, study, prayer, service, Sabbath rest, and fellowship with other Christians makes our life worth living. Making time for God and God's people is our priority.

People around us are drawn to follow Jesus when they notice how we use our time to follow him.

Talent

Each of us is given special talents by God for use in service to God. A good writer sends encouraging letters to the sick. A "fix-it" person volunteers to make repairs on the home of an elderly person living alone. Some have abilities to lead others and are called to serve on committees of the church.

People around us are drawn to be disciples when they witness our talents at work in service to God's people.

Tithe

Jesus challenges us to share the Gospel with the world. We challenge ourselves to use our personal financial resources to achieve that goal. We encourage all members and friends to tithe (10% of their income) to the church's overall mission.

With these resources we provide and maintain our house of worship; share it in fellowship with community organizations (AA and ToughLove, for example); hire trained staff for specialized ministries to members and friends; and purchase educational supplies for teaching children how to love and respect each other with God's guidance.

Missions

At Southminster we place great importance on the sharing of the financial, physical and spiritual gifts of our congregation. Support efforts range from monetary donations to "hands on" assistance for many traditional, as well as non-traditional, programs. Volunteers range from the youngest of our members to the most senior, with programs that allow for broad participation.

Guiding Principles

Missions should be supported through congregational involvement with "hands on" as well as financial contributions.

Missions should support people at risk (economic, emotional, social or spiritual). The mission committee will be guided by the Beatitudes and remember what Jesus taught us about helping others in need.

Missions should be meaningful and/or have a significant impact on the people served.

Tenets:

· Evangelism

· Education

· Exploration of new mission opportunities

The web site section reachable by clicking on “Outreach” highlights most of the agencies supported by Southminster. Joyfully, this list is ever changing as Southminster continues to spread its wings and reach out to the greater community around us.