Nurturing Faith

[karen freeinchristman]

I am researching the different ways churches help newcomers to find their way in the church, and also how churches maintain discipleship and spiritual growth in church members.

Can you guys share any of your experiences with me? Things that have worked well, and things that haven't worked well? Does your church place a high priority on this kind of thing, or does it let people find their own way, generally?

thanks!

[Naomi4Christ]

We use Alpha and after-Alpha as ways for newcomers to get up to speed in Christian basics.

We also encourage newcomers to get involved in our existing small groups.

We recognise that we are all on a journey, just at different places. Our experiences on this journey are very dependent on having nurturing from more mature Christians, and what we have received, we have a duty to give.

[Andy Broadley]

OK, I'll try.

Can only really speak for the Salvation Army here of course.

Anyone wishing to become either a soldier or an adherent in the SA, goes through a series of 'classes' in preparation, which cover doctrine, belief, scripture etc.

Post enrollment, there is not a great deal of official stuff. however, a great emphasis is placed on the alter call as part of worship.

However, unofficially, one should never underestimate the value of 'coffee time' after the worship has ended.

[Naomi4Christ]

We don't do classes for newcomers, until they are ready to do confirmation classes.