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Methodist Way

Pre-Conference Training Events

The Methodist Way:
Five essential practices involved in
making disciples for Jesus Christ

"The Methodist Way" refers to the five aspects of the core disciple-making process to which every congregation is called. They have their roots both in our Wesleyan heritage and in the example of our Lord Jesus Christ. Each of these five pieces is essential in making disciples of Jesus Christ; just doing one, two, or three is not enough.

In the next several months, churches throughout the Florida Conference and the entire United Methodist denomination will have the opportunity to learn more about The Methodist Way, and how they can grow in their practice of each of the five aspects. Stay tuned to this Web site for more information.

The five essential practices are:

Cultivating a congregation of
passionate worshipers

Engaging our community and
the next generation in
radical hospitality

Forming mature apprentices
of Jesus through deep and
intentional discipling

Picking up our crosses in
salty service in our
community and the world 

 
Pouring ourselves out in
extravagant generosity

To learn more about The Methodist Way, click here for an 8-page .pdf document that explains in more detail the five pieces.

It has become axiomatic in organizational change literature that, "You can't hit a target you can't see." As our connection of congregations increasingly seeks to improve the eroding effectiveness of our ministries among the people of Florida, it is important that we are crystal clear what "good ministry" means. Some say we have too long defined "success" institutionally – even bureaucratically: paying apportionments, showing up at district meetings and getting our completed forms in on time. Others have said that Christ's mission is for us to "make disciples," which is certainly better, but leaves most of us wondering what that really means. "The Methodist Way" with its five core practices is one practical way to describe what "making disciples" really looks like in action. It provides us with a much needed common language by which we can encourage and hold one another accountable for fulfilling our Kingdom potential, in hopes that one day Christ can greet each of us saying, "Well done, good and faithful servant."

Fundamental Practices, 2008 Congregational Goals & Strategies video featuring Bishop Timothy Whitaker and Rev. Jeff Stiggins is now available for online viewing. 
to view video.

Information on how to order a Methodist Way T-Shirt.