Facilitating Growth of the Body of Christ through Mission and Outreach
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Author
Unsicker, Janelle
Date
2011
Degree
Master of Arts in Earth Literacy
Abstract
First United Church of Christ in Bremen, Indiana has been in a transitional period for at
least 2 years. Two interim pastors and many guests have sustained the services and
congregational needs until a pastor was found this fall. Around the same time, our new narthex
addition was completed. One of the favorite interim pastors came back to deliver a sermon for
the dedication of the new addition. Donald R. Buckthal presented a sermon based on Luke 2:52:
“And Jesus increased in wisdom and stature, in favor with God and man.” Dr. Buckthal wanted
to show that the new addition “can be used to assist us in our personal development of a wellrounded or even a successful life.”
With the help of my faculty advisor, Pastor Thomas Dean, and the congregation of First
United Church of Christ, I would like to outline ways in which we can use the building for
growth and development in the ways Dr. Buckthal recommended as well as incorporating the
overall themes of the Earth Literacy Program. I would like to develop a program, initiative, or
event in each one of the four categories of wisdom, physical, spiritual, and social growth. Some
of these programs may already be in place, but can be reorganized with a specific intention. I
think my biggest opportunity will be in the mission committee. My focus will fall primarily in
this area as well as with outreach.