In many churches and organizations the question is asked “if I have an idea how do I go about putting it into action?” At Vista Del Mar Baptist Church we want to make it as easy as possible for those with vision and ideas to test them and pursue anything that is part of the purposes of God for the fellowship. The following steps are designed to be an easy and understandable procedure for doing just that.

“People today desperately need a church that functions as the church – A body of believers who accept liability for one another and make themselves accountable to one another”

- Ron Sider, Rich Christians in an Age of Hunger

Step 1

I have an idea!!!!!

                How does this fit with God’s call on your life?

                How does this fit with the gifts you believe God has given you?

If you can see that it is consistent with these then go to Step 2.

If not then write an explanation of the idea and give it to the pastor. This may be an idea that God has prepared for someone else.  Remember, just because there is a need does not mean you have to meet it. Just because there is a need does not mean VDM has to fulfill it.

Step 2

Seek out at least one other person who catches the vision with you and is willing to work with you on it.

Why?

Its Biblical!   Jesus sent out the disciples in pairs. We see very few occasions, if any, when the disciples ministered alone. It was when Peter was alone that he got into trouble and denied the Lord!

Its practical!  Teams are able to pray together and provide encouragement, support, and accountability for one another. It ensures that the ministry will continue if one person is sick or circumstances change.

 When you have your partner or team …move to Step 3.

Step 3

Prepare a brief statement of Goals and Objectives to present to the board.

Remember to use the church’s mission statement and values as a reference point. It is part of the board's task to ensure that the church does not use resources on projects, however worthwhile, that do not relate to our agreed mission statement.

(Note: The Board meets once a month if you wish to come and explain your proposals. Please check with the moderator and we will be pleased to have you with us.)

Step 4

Prepare a plan! (A form, a sample of which follows, to assist on this is available from the pastor.)

As soon as the board gives the go ahead prepare a plan. Ensure that each of the following is covered:

·          1)    A Timeline.(as detailed as possible)

·          2)    Resources Required (Prayer, Facilities, Finance and people) and how you plan to go about getting them - even if this is just to ask the board to include the money in the budget!

·          3)    Evaluation - How will you decide if the ministry is achieving its objectives and how often will you make the assessment.

·         

The following is a sample ministry plan (imaginary!) and budget:

Ministry Plan and Budget                   Date: Today-

Ministry Name:   Welcome and Assimilation

Ministry Leaders (at least two)          Steven Jones &  Anne Smith

Ministry Objectives

Timeline

Budget Estimate       _____________________

Expenditure estimated for the period  ____________    to    _______________.        

Other Resources

Evaluation Procedure