Re: We are not the competition

I personally think this new campus will help other churches work harder at bringing people to Christ, since they know CC is pretty successful at it. Unfortunately, smaller churches don't have the necessary resources to bring "seekers" in. I believe that CC will inevitably help the other local church congregations. All churches main goal should be to bring people to Christ and I believe that some churches have lost sight of that, bringing that item to the forefront is vital. Perhaps an "open house" to local churches - even in the shell of the new Toledo campus might be an idea. I'd be more than willing to help.

Re: We are not the competition

I have heard it said around the creek that we aren't out for other churches attenders. We exist for the spiritually restless and unchurched. Just my two cents...

Re: We are not the competition

I agree, Ann. Unfortunately, for us to help other churches they need to realize we are not their enemies but partners in Christ's calling. As opening day gets closer we hope to meet with area pastors. Maybe that will help.

Mark

Re: We are not the competition

How about doing some community service/outreach events at their locations.

Re: We are not the competition

I like Ann's idea about the open house, but *ahem* 'prouder' preachers probably wouldn't come and I think they're the ones we need to reach the most.
When my husband and I moved to KY and then back to Toledo each time we received a welcome packet from the city. Since that doesn't seem to be forthcomming from these other churches, perhaps CC could send out mailers to them. The mailer could be used to address directly the exact concerns of these churches and hopfully put them at ease. I can sympathise with the ones who honestly don't know what to do and are in fear of losing their flock. CC could help with that to, I've heard Lee say he sometimes councels other pastors on that very thing. However, some people will still choose to be hard-hearted and the church will simply have to thicken its skin and take the hits.

Re: We are not the competition

Maybe a letter in conjunction with the meeting. A really great letter! Paul wrote some pretty good letters. Something uplifting for pastors, focused on Christ and who He is, the great commandment, etc. Something inspriational that communicates humility on our part.

Maybe ijnclude some stats.

Something to directly address their fears.

"We aren't into sheep stealing."

Re: We are not the competition

"we are not the competition" is colored with resentment and pride.
--cedar creek attendee