2004 Synod Assembly: "Called Into
God's Marvelous Light"
Live update added 3:15 p.m., Friday, April 23, 2004
Carmala Aderman Speaks on Evangelism
The Rev. Carmala Aderman told
those gathered at the 17th annual Southeastern Minnesota Synod Assembly that
churches are being challenged to grow in the new century.
Aderman, the assembly's
keynote speaker, said churches in the 21st century will more closely
resemble their 1st century predecessors than their 20th century
counterparts. The reason for this, she said, is because churches must
embrace diversity.
While businesses, schools and
governments previously coordinated their activities with churches, Aderman
said that is no longer the case. An estimated 25 percent of Americans now
work Sundays and a full 75 percent of the population is unchurched.
"We get to find new means to
open up ways for people to be grasped by this amazing faith that the Holy
Spirit has blessed us with," she said. "If you like adventures, this is a
fascinating time to be a part of the church of Jesus Christ."
Aderman is a pastor in the
Evangelical Lutheran Church in America and currently is called to serve as
an assistant to the bishop in the Northwest Synod of Wisconsin. In that
role, she focuses primarily on evangelistic work.
Aderman said during her
keynote address that worship should be inspiring. But beyond that, churches
should be known for their hospitality and accessibility. She said
congregations should not be deterred if some amenities, like printed worship
guides, cost money.
"Good, old-fashioned
Midwestern hospitality costs something," she said. "But you put out your
best when company's coming."
Aderman also emphasized how
churches must remain in contact with members through mailings or Internet
sites. She said members should be encouraged to contribute to their
congregation through administrative assistance, volunteerism or independent
prayer.
By reaching out and gathering
new members, Aderman said congregations will be richly rewarded.
"Things are very different
form the church I grew up in years ago," she said. "But we now have the
opportunity to grow more deeply in our faith."
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