#DinnerChurch

Written by Ps Dev Menon

In October, the 5pm Shepherds and AG leaders met online to ask these questions: “What has God been teaching us over the last 6 months as a congregation? Where is God leading?”

In our corporate discernment, we noted: There has been significant spiritual regression. Issues and hidden sins have come to the surface. Mental and emotional health has declined. People have withdrawn and become insular. Livestream is showing negative effects. AGs are struggling to meet.

However, despite these struggles, we also noted: God has been forcing us to form closer, deeper, more intentional relationships. There is a greater conviction about meeting in-person at all levels. These were some of the comments made:

(1) The smaller congregation has pushed us to get to know one another. It prevents cliques and newcomers are noticed. The restrictions have made us more personal & intentional.

(2) The smaller AG groupings allow relationships to deepen. Though harder to organise, support for the individual is better. No one is missed out.

(3) Having to meet in homes is the greatest outcome of this season. Inviting people over for meals has been a blessing. There is unhurried time as there are no more activities after this final 5pm service. We really get to know and pray for one another.

Three persons went on to share their experiences of hosting others in their homes (what we have termed #DinnerChurch), and how it made everyone feel like part of the same ‘Jesus-family’.

My family too has had the privilege of hosting about 100 people from the congregation, including newcomers and lots of children! It has been an amazing experience getting to know each person over a 2-3 hour meal! Opening our lives to one another has allowed for a truly #getreal ministry. I hope to be able to have hosted the entire congregation by another 2-3 months’ time…

Over the year, a small, but growing number of us, have seen how God is working in this newly formed 5pm congregation, and we are convicted that it should continue, regardless of covid and its restrictions. Pray that the Lord will lead and guide us as we venture forth in ‘The Next Lap’.