January 2025

The 2025 Parish Ministry Theme

“Do not forget to do good and to share with others, for with such sacrifices God is pleased.”  (Hebrews 13:16)

What is your resolution for 2025? As we step into a new year, it’s natural to look back at where we’ve been and forward to where we’re headed. It is also time to reflect on our church and parish ministry theme for 2025 as we make our New Year’s resolutions.

One of the questions I often ask our parishioners is, “What do you want our church to become?” I also frequently ask myself, “What kind of church do you dream of?” I dream of a church like the early Christian community, where believers shared their possessions with those in need, gathered frequently to worship and pray, and saw the number of the saved increase (Acts 2:43-47).

During the Central-Grantsburg Administrative Council meeting in December, we discussed the church’s vision and pastoral direction for the upcoming year. Then as I have done in the past, I asked the committee members, what would be a good vision for our church in 2025? Naturally, this led us to reflect on the 2024 pastoral theme, “Replant It.” Then, someone said, “As we replant this year, we may share the abundance next year.” What a wonderful idea is!

After that, I prayed holding it, and asking God what would be good for our ministerial vision. And a scripture verse came to mind, “Do not forget to do good and to share with others, for with such sacrifices God is pleased” (Hebrews 13:16). This verse is more than a simple reminder; it is an invitation to embody the love of Christ in practical, transformative ways. It challenges us to shape our lives and ministry around selflessness, generosity, and a commitment to the well-being of others.

Our pastoral theme for 2025 is “Do Good and Share with Others.” This theme draws inspiration from Hebrews 13:16, encouraging us to live out our faith through actionable love. As living sacrifices (Romans 12:1), we are called to continually align our lives with God’s will, making space for others in our time, resources, and hearts. Let me share with you my ideas for a vision for ministry in 2025.

A Vision for Ministry in 2025 

1. Fostering a Culture of Generosity

We envision a church where generosity is not merely a seasonal effort but a year-round culture. Hebrews 13:16 reminds us that doing good and sharing are sacrifices that please God. In 2025, we will:

• Encourage tithing not just as a financial act but as a spiritual discipline.
• Community outreach to serve local needs through monthly mission projects.
• Develop a “Generosity Stories” segment in our gatherings, where members share testimonies of giving and its impact.

2. Strengthening Community Bonds

The call to share with others emphasizes relationships. True sharing requires connection, empathy, and trust. This year, we aim to:

• Launch a task force team focused on mutual support, prayer, and acts of kindness.
• Partner with local organizations to serve underprivileged families, emphasizing on collaboration.
• Build intergenerational bridges through programs that bring together younger kids, youth, adults, and seniors for shared learning and fellowship

3. Empowering the Next Generation

To sustain this vision, we must equip the next generation to lead lives of sacrificial service. Our 2025 initiatives include:

• A “Faith in Action” program for youth, involving them in community service projects.
• Leadership workshops for young adults to develop skills for ministry and outreach.
• Opportunities for children to engage in giving through simple acts like preparing care packages or writing encouragement cards.

4. Deepening Spiritual Formation

Sharing and doing good stems from a heart transformed by Christ. This year, we commit to:

• A sermon series on biblical generosity and service.
• Offering spiritual retreats focused on discernment and aligning personal values with God’s calling.
• Creating prayer groups that intercede for the needs of our community and beyond.

5. The Fruit of Sharing and Sacrifice

Hebrews 13:16 reminds us that such sacrifices please God. This pleasure is not about earning favor but reflecting God’s heart. When we do good and share, we:

• Strengthen the bonds of community.
• Witness to the world the transformative power of Christ’s love.
• Experience the joy of aligning our lives with God’s purposes.

As we journey through 2025, let us hold tightly to the words of Hebrews 13:16. May our church be a beacon of God’s love, a place where doing good and sharing with others is not just a command, but a joyful lifestyle. Together, as living sacrifices, we will glorify God, transform lives, and build His kingdom.

Blessings,

Pastor Jenny