Letter to Congregation

Greetings Crosstown Congregation,
 
We are excited to share with you our ministry plans for Fall Kick-Off. The Council has been discerning and working together for more than six months on how to align our ministry activities with our church purpose and mission after the drastic adjustments needed through the initial phases of the COVID pandemic. After two years of disruption to our regular rhythm of fellowship, community, worship, it is our deep desire to reconnect our church in community to grow together in our love and life in Jesus Christ. On behalf of the Elders, Deacons and staff, we present to you our plans for ministry activity to begin on Sunday, September 25: 
 
Our ministry focus will be on fellowship, discipleship, and heartfelt worship, using the following model. 

• Sunday morning worship will continue at 10:00 a.m. We believe that this is the best time to have worship as we seek to grow forward in Jesus.  Worship will include the following components:
  • Live Streaming the service
  • Fresh focus on worship that is engaging, participatory and "family friendly.”
  • Fellowship time following the Sunday morning service with refreshments. 

 

• Wednesday night programming (Youth & Children)
  • Primary focus on discipleship of and for children and students beginning at 6:30 p.m. 

 

• Adult Discipleship
  • Flexible adult discipleship that encourages and focuses on small groups we are now calling Grow Groups. We desire to support and strengthen the groups that currently exist and create groups for individuals not yet connected and looking for a group to be part of. We will encourage flexibility for our Grow Groups and invite others to consider meeting on a day and time that works well for them. 

 
In December the Elder team will review the adjustment in pre and post worship ministry activity (ending Equip Hour) and will present an update to the Council to be presented at a future Congregational Meeting. Commissions are welcome to and encouraged to propose adjustments either back to original ministry activity or other ideas for continuing and growing ministry that moves us forward in our purpose and mission and aligning with our core values. 
 
We believe this simplified approach will accomplish our hope and desire for our congregation to grow in their worship and relationship with Jesus Christ, reconnect with each other, and serve alongside staff and lay leadership. 
 
If you would like to share your feedback regarding these changes, please contact Samantha Buchanan or Pastor John Jacobi via email, phone or in person at church.  On Sunday, September 4 and Sunday, September 11 members of the leadership team will be available following the service in the sanctuary or narthex to hear and share regarding any concerns congregation members may have regarding the changes outlined above. 
 
We hope you will join us in stepping into this next season of ministry here at Crosstown Covenant Church.  
 
Thank you,
Samantha Buchanan
Church Chair