STRENGTHENING THE LOCAL CHURCH
The local church is Zion’s greatest asset. It is the catalyst by which lives are transformed for the Kingdom of God. A healthy local church will give evidence of numerical growth, financial stability, and spiritual transformation, all of which lend themselves to strong District, Conference, and Episcopal Areas; and not vice versa. I contend we can make our churches stronger by equipping its leadership with skill-based teaching and training, multi-cultural ministries, and facilitating newfound ministries in coffee shops, laundry facilities, recreation centers, etc. that are unique to the communities they serve. We can support our laity, youth, and young adults in assisting leadership with evaluating, assessing, and implementing strategies for growth. Rather than Zion speaking for the local church, Zion must position itself to listen and collaborate with our churches.