NOVEMBER 2020
In February, I had a conversation with a pastor from rural Missouri in which he shared a revolutionary way that his church discipled young people. It was an idea that I desperately wanted to share with other churches in the Conference, but I realized there was no platform to do so. So, this fall after returning from paternity leave, myself and the office of NextGen launched the NextGen Conversations podcast, a podcast designed to help transform the way that you do ministry.
Over the past few months I have spoken to churches in St. Louis, Mid-Missouri, Kansas City and southeast Missouri as well as teachers and parents to learn about some of the core ideas and philosophies that have shaped their ministries and their lives. Even during a global pandemic, these people are working hard to impact the lives of children in their communities. I’m so proud of the individuals that lent their voices to this conversation. In the end, we were able to record some truly incredible, life-transforming conversations that continue to resonate with me today. When you hear teachers describing their struggles to maintain a safe and healthy teaching environment despite all the challenges, it sticks with you.
In this time of isolation and separation, it’s important to remember that we’re all in this together. The spark of an idea from a local ministry expert can be just what it takes to start a new program or a new chain of thinking at a church even 400 miles away. NextGen ministries hopes to continue to be a bridge built between churches. I encourage you to take some time this winter to check out Season 1 and the incredible stories featured in it.
- Josh Schaller, NextGen Mobile Camping Coordinator and NextGen Conversations Host
P.S. Know of a ministry or person we should feature on the podcast? Email Josh at [email protected].
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Recording Available of the Enneagram Training for NextGen Leaders
Our October NextGen Gathering focused on Enneagram and how to use it to help your ministry. We know several people wanted to attend but couldn't make the live event, so we posted a recording!
Watch to learn more about the Enneagram and how it can help you in both your faith walk and professional life.
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Learn More about LEAP 2021
LEAP 2021 is going to be an event to remember! Gather with us on February 27th, 2021, to dive deeper into the Fruit of the Spirit.
“ …the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, generosity, faithfulness, 23 gentleness, and self-control…” Galatians 5:22-23.
We will learn from seven speakers as they share about these gifts in their own experiences.Even though we may not be meeting in person, you can still count on lots of games and surprises throughout the day!
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Applications Open for 2021 Internships
Applications are now open for 2021 NextGen internships. College-age students will have the opportunity to make a difference and pursue their faith in a fun-filled summer. Learn more about these paid positions and apply today at the button below. Know a college-age person who would be a great fit for the job? Please pass this info along to them!
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Global Mission Fellows
Global Mission Fellows US-2 applications are now open. This two-year, missionary experience is open to anyone between the ages of 20-30. As many of you know, our own Maggie Lohmeyer served as a US-2 missionary in San Francisco from 2016-2018. She can tell you first hand that this is a life-changing experience for young adults! The fall application deadline is November 30, and the spring application deadline is February 24, 2021. Placement matches will be assigned throughout the selection process, so early application is encouraged. More information and the application can be found at www.umcmission.org. Those selected for the next Global Mission Fellow US-2 cohort will begin training and service in August and September 2021.
