Blue Ridge United Methodist Church

We are committed to being in communication with one another and the community as we strive to be the hands and feet of Jesus and make disciples for Christ everyday.

From the Pastor

Rev. Doug Burrell, Pastor

“Making Disciples Of Jesus Christ for the Transformation of the World”

The phrase above encapsulates the Mission Statement of the United Methodist Church. It is also descriptive of what we here at the Blue Ridge branch of the Church are doing.

First, we are “Evangelizing.” That, simply stated, is spreading the message and influence of Jesus Christ to bring persons to a “saving” (spiritually transforming) faith in Jesus Christ, God’s Son. Our evangelism includes personal conversations with family, friends and acquaintances, where we give witness to the transformation Christ has brought about in our lives. It includes this congregation’s ongoing presence and reputation in our community. It also includes our public worship, where any person is welcome to experience firsthand, this community of faith worshiping and proclaiming the Lordship of Christ.

Second, we are continuing to “make (construct, build, finish, complete) disciples” of Jesus Christ through the “Nurturing” of persons who have come to Christ. We nurture through ministries of caring, fellowship and encouragement of our members (be they “Baptized Members,” “Constituent Members,” “Affiliate Members,” “Associate Members,” or “Professing Members”).

Third, we “make disciples” through ministries of “Christian Formation” including: Corporate and Private Worship and Devotions, Sunday School, Disciple Bible Study and other small groups and ministries, where one may both learn and practice ministry in the context of a group or mentor accountability or supervision.

Finally, we “make disciples” through “Christian Service” for Christ to others. This is the sending out part of the Church where we serve others in the Name of Christ. This includes ministries of personal evangelism, teaching, mentoring, serving on administrative or other committees, helping the impoverished, “Stephen’s Ministry,” Mission service within or beyond the local community, lay speaking, and many more.

Yours for Service Together,

Doug

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