Authentic Faith Makes a Difference in Minnesota
Slow going. That’s how FEC pastors describe ministry in Minnesota, where Lutheran and Catholic backgrounds prevail. “So many people have this idea that certain things are expected of them in church, and that can hold them back,” says Scott Wildenberg, pastor at True North Church in Cannon Falls. “Our goal is to show them that church people aren’t perfect. They tend to connect with that in a big way.” Fourth of July parades, summer outdoor services, and VBS are all part of True North’s outreach strategies to reach their neighbors.
Shon McIntyre, pastor at The Real Tree Church in Farmington, agrees with Scott’s assessment. And while growth is slower than he expected when The Real Tree Church launched in 2012, Shon is pleased with the spiritual maturity that’s developing in his congregation. “People want to see that you’re authentic,” says Shon. “We’re beginning to see how the Word is changing people’s lives. We always pray for spiritual growth, which then turns into numerical growth.” Please be in prayer for continued outreach in Minnesota, as well as for a new building project at The Real Tree Church. To learn more, visit their websites at truenorthcf.org and therealtreechurch.org.
