CGMF Changes And New Quarterly Studies.

It’s August already? Well, the summer is ending soon, but so much has been accomplished. However, none of our efforts could have been undertaken without the voluntary efforts of so many people. I tell you we have found some hidden talent in a few really remarkable people. Thanks so much for revealing the gifts God has placed in many of you. Gifts of hospitality, music, teaching, art, etc.., it was awesome! Thanks CGMF members and friends for your stalwart efforts. For we had so many Shepherd Leaders and regular volunteers on vacation, and we needed all hands on deck. Great work guys and gals.

In September we will be rotating some folks in various Shepherd Groups where possible geographically where necessary. In addition to our regular discipleship changes, with advancement and growth of our family in Christ. This is always necessary, plus with the loss of many folks to three pioneering works. More experienced teachers and ministers are fewer to be had. Bear with us in this transitional period.

Here is the breakdown for the upcoming quarter of studies, vision and plan.

Our adults will be studying a new quarterly series from the Book of Mark, in addition to our Authentic Christian Man or Woman series. Pastor Vossen will also be teaching again a yearly Revised Lectionary of Studies from the Word in his group and a new Advanced Covenant Theological Training Curriculum which will begin for Bible Students and Ministers in October. Other churches have asked to be a part of that ministry, so be in prayer as it is developing quickly.

Teens will be embarking on a new series called God, Me And My Crazy World. It is designed to help teens in handling their preparation toward adulthood, and having a balanced set of values. It also will assist them in keeping steady in their relationship in Christ despite the confusion at times in this ever changing world.

12 and under will be starting a courses designed for their age group. Broken into three year age cycles of four. With Foundations of Faith And Other Religions, Living the Life of Christ, with an additional kids version of Covenant Worldview broken down for younger students, which is being adapted from Pastor Vossen’s study to Adults.

For new converts or young Christians there will be The Foundations Course, The Shepherd Series and Covenant Worldview, along with Living the Life of Christ broken into 4 quarters. We believe after much prayer and consideration these courses within our Discipleship program led by its Shepherd Leaders will have profound results.

Our vision is divesting a bit. With less Shepherd Neighborhood Groups planned and more home missions planting in the future. This is coming about as many of our ministers have been with CGMF for years, and now are ready to proceed toward their next level of development and calling in Christ. Also, leadership has found the geographical differences have been hard to organize between North Platte to Omaha. Change and flexibility is inevitable, so pray as we adapt to the hand God has given us to play for His Kingdom.

Pastor is teaching some and overseeing, but is not involved much in day to day operations. He has other ministry work, and has a vision for expansion of Focus Bible College, as well a possible new work of his own ( Lord, does the man realize he’s getting old. Oops, sorry pastor. We all love you. ). Skip and Mary are also finding they are not able to do what they have as coordinators, so it’s up to all of us to lift them up, and take up the mantle of the Lord. Let’s do so with joy in anticipation of God’s best in the year to come.

Just to let you know Plan One of new structural development of leadership and groups will be fully employed by January 1st of 2016. Each month we will advise you of its nature, God’s direction and Vision. Be in prayer as God works His will in our midst. We will do our best to make this transition simple as possible. Thanks again for the volunteers from our church family, as well those outside our walls. Your efforts have not gone unnoticed.

Blessings to all in your preparation toward a new school year.

In His Love and Grace,

David and Laurie McNeil, West Omaha Shepherd Leaders