wfn.org | ABCUSA: Regions Launch Transformation and Renewal Network

[Worldwide Faith News <wfn@igc.org>]

American Baptist News Service (5/10/02)--Ten American Baptist regions in the
U.S. Northeast are launching the Nehemiah Leadership Network for pastors
gifted for and committed to leading their congregations in transformation
and renewal.

The ten regions are: the American Baptist Churches of Connecticut, Maine,
Massachusetts, New Jersey, New York State, Rhode Island, Rochester/Genesee,
Vermont/New Hampshire and the Philadelphia Baptist Association and
Pittsburgh Baptist Association.

This new partnership will provide a creative way to support and equip
pastors in the challenge of leading congregations that are plateaued or
declining.  Its goal is to create an experience for gifted pastors to learn
how to lead local churches in rethinking their identity and mission.  These
leaders will catalyze their local churches in becoming healthier communities
of faith that are effective in their God-given ministry and mission.  The
network is named after Nehemiah, who while facing opposition was able to
rally the people to work together with renewed commitment to do God's work
in rebuilding the wall of Jerusalem.

The Board of Directors for the Nehemiah Leadership Network announced that
Dr. Jean Kim has been appointed the network's first coordinator.  Most
recently as executive director of Educational Ministries she provided
leadership for the denomination's goal of transforming congregations for the
new century.  "Dr. Kim's expertise as an administrator, her knowledge of the
denomination and its people, and her commitment to congregational renewal
made her an ideal person for the position," said the Rev. Dr. Linda C.
Spoolstra, executive minister of The American Baptist Churches of
Massachusetts and a chair of the Board of Directors.  She added: "The goals
of NEW LIFE 2010 will be met as congregations become revitalized and
committed to the joy of reaching new believers, sponsoring new churches and
ministering to their communities."

The Nehemiah Leadership Network received the first grant ever made by the
American Baptist Foundation.  The cooperating regions, the Eastern
Ministerial Leadership Commission, Educational Ministries and the Ministers
and Missionaries Benefit Board also are providing financial support.

Participation in the network will be for three years and will include a goal
setting process, a self-directed learning experience, mentoring in a peer
setting and in individualized mentoring experiences, and an annual
conference.  The Center for Career Development and Ministry also is a
partner in this new ministry.  Participants will develop their learning
plans based on insights received through a special program at the center.

The network will begin with 15 participants and increase the numbers
annually.  It is not intended for all clergy but for persons identified as
having high potential for leading congregations to become transformed or
renewed and who feel called by God to this form of ministry.

For more information contact Dr. Linda C. Spoolstra, American Baptist
Churches of Massachusetts, 20 Milton St., Dedham, MA 02026; (781)320-8100.

02ABN69

American Baptist News Service: Office of Communication, American Baptist
Churches USA, P.O. Box 851, Valley Forge, PA 19482-0851; (610)768-2077; fax:
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