Three Prong Approach

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Posted by Nonda Houston
in SoCal Women

During the first Gulf War, it was interesting to compare the different strategies of war between Iraq and the United States. Saddam Hussein would launch a missile in Israel’s direction then turn on CNN to see where it landed. Proudly, our American strategy and technology is significantly more advanced, and we countered with sophisticated intelligence and smart bombs, which have amazing precision and accuracy to hit the desired target. Both had the same goal, but the approach was as different as night and day.

What is our strategy as we minister to women in our church and communities? Statistically, women make up the greatest number of adherents in Assembly of God churches both nationally and in the Southern California District -locally 41% (32% men, 26% children) * Many times it’s the Momma-of-the-house who investigates first with her brood following in tow. This was true growing up in my home, as my mom took us to church even though my father never joined us.

Women are looking for places to connect and belong. A three-part approach to minister to the women inside and outside of your church might be worth considering:

Big Events- whether it’s a luncheon, tea, dinner or holiday gathering, it’s friendly, relevant and fun. This is where the marginal attendees get their feet wet, and where women feel safe to invite unchurched friends. Big events rally people together and can create momentum.
Small Groups- the bigger you get the smaller you must get. It might be a weekly/monthly bible study or an official small group ministry. This is the place where relationships are cultivated and discipleship happens.
One on One- it all depends on making friends. Women might like many things about a church, but if she doesn’t experience genuine care and friendship, she will fade away. We can’t force people to make friends, but we can help through mentor relationships and creating a culture of nurture and friendship.

Like Saddam, aimlessly throwing something up in the air with the hopes that it will do what we want is pretty silly. My prayer is that 2012 is filled with prayer sought strategies carried out by faith-filled women to bring help to the hurting and honor to God.

Serving God Together,
Nonda

* AG U.S. Vital Statistics by Section- June 2010

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