The Rural Missouri Connection encourages and equips churches to engage with local resources in the development of outward ministries that reflect and address holistic opportunities in the community. We invite churches to consider what opportunities and assets are available to engage in ministry in each unique context.
Festival of Sharing: Beyond Sharefests
While the work occurring at the Sharefests is integral in making this cooperative ministry happen, equally important are the hours spent preparing and gathering resources throughout the year. This year alone, 65% of participating churches represented communities of 5,000 or less and their donations accounted for 3/4 of Festival of Sharing's non-cash gifts (packs and kits). That is amazing work and a testament to the impact of smaller or more rural congregations working in unity for something bigger. Read the full story here →
Featured Resource
Fear often gets in the way of worshiping with conversation: What if I don’t know how to respond? What if worshipers say too much? Or too little? Or interrupt with something wildly inappropriate? Read more of the Excerpt from The Small Church Advantage: Seven Powerful Worship Practices that Work Best in Small Settings
Other Resources
NextGen Leaders Academy
NextGen Ministries seeks to support and equip Missouri’s NextGen ministry leaders. One way we do that is through a new program called NextGen Leaders Academy. This six-month program teaches the basics of NextGen ministry, empowers leaders to do big, exciting things, and creates a network of support for leaders all across the state. Learn more and apply for the 2024 cohort by Dec. 1→
Curriculum Discounts
Missouri Conference NextGen Ministries is offering a reduced rate on curriculum produced by top kids and youth ministry providers. This resource is available for any ministry leader working with kids and youth. Currently the discount covers Celebrate Wonder by Cokesbury, Grow, Orange XP3 Middle and High School, and Sparkhouse curriculums. Learn more and request your discount→
Events and Opportunities
The Good Neighbor Experiment Cohorts
January-June and July-November 2024
The Good Neighbor Experiment is offering two cohorts in 2024. The Good Neighbor Experiment helps participants build relationships with their actual, literal neighbors. Grounded in asset-based community development (ABCD), participants learn the giftedness of their neighbors and neighborhoods through conversation and connection. Watch the promo video and Learn more→
Save-the-Date
January 16 - Jump Start: Worship (Columbia)
January 16 - Jump Start: Mission, Service and Justice (Columbia)
Grants
GBGM Multiethnic Ministries Grants
Grants from different sources make possible the support and growth of ministries that communities might not otherwise have an opportunity to develop. Available grants, deadlines and applications are listed here. For more information about any of these grants, please email Dana Lyles at [email protected].
Cooperative Response Grant: Rolling Basis
Festival of Sharing has funding available to partner with churches and organizations in their efforts to cooperatively respond to community needs around poverty. Festival of Sharing recognizes that poverty is multidimensional and experienced in different ways. Responses may work to address concerns beyond economic resources, to include such things as physical, social, cultural or spiritual resources. Grants will be awarded up to $1,000. Applications accepted on a rolling basis. Find out more and apply→
