Why Church: Neighborhood Edition

Rooted in the vision and mission of the Rocky Mountain Synod (RMS), the Congregational Ministries Committee offers Why Church: Neighborhood Edition — a resource designed to help congregations listen for the Holy Spirit and discover creative, context-sensitive ways to live out Christ’s call in their neighborhoods. As our constitution commits, this Committee seeks continually to equip congregations to participate in God’s mission in their diverse local contexts: relating to the Synod Council, collaborating with other ministries, and responding faithfully to changing needs.

Now available for download, this guide invites your congregation into a prayerful, structured process of community engagement and ministry development. Over three months, your team will:

• Study scripture and foundational “Why Church?” materials,

• Explore your neighborhood’s demographics and needs,

• Listen to congregation members and local stakeholders,

• Discern God’s leading through prayer and reflection,

• And from that foundation design one concrete, sustainable ministry initiative.

Whether your congregation seeks deeper clarity about its identity and gifts, greater awareness of local needs, stronger relationships with neighbors, or a Spirit-led ministry shaped for today’s realities, “Why Church: Neighborhood Edition” offers a thoughtful, practical path forward — one that invites faithful experimentation, contextual listening, and responsive love.