Connect Newsletter

September 2022

Dear friend,  

Discipleship is core to a healthy, thriving church. Examples of vital mentor and mentee relationships abound throughout scripture: Naomi and Ruth, Elijah and Elisha, Moses and Joshua, Paul and Timothy, and there are many more. These kinds of relationships multiply and build upon each other, creating generations of dedicated Christ-followers.

This pattern continues to be important for the church today on an interpersonal and denominational level. Throughout this newsletter, you will find themes of discipleship and growth in the U.S. and around the world. We invite you to pause to examine your own sphere of influence and recognize the mentors and mentees God has placed in your life.

Impact Seminar: The Neighbor Next Door

Our congregations exist in unique communities, and understanding their religious, socioeconomic, generational, and racial makeup can help us discern how to serve them well. This fall, join us for our 2022 Impact Seminar: The Neighbor Next Door. This seminar will provide tools, resources, and real-world applications that participants can use to beneficially impact their unique ministry contexts. Learn more and register.

General Assembly 2022 Recap

General Assembly in Kansas this summer was a joyful time of connection and fellowship. Over 450 people from around the U.S. – and missionaries from around the world! – gathered to worship, pray, and conduct business together. Click the links below to see more from the event.

• Actions were taken on the recommendations brought by the General Conference Board. Read the Business Wrap-Up.
• "The love that God poured into their hearts was poured out in service, touching countless lives including many of ours here today,” said Lynda Gephart as she introduced a video in honor of those we lost in the past biennium. Watch the In Memorium video.
• Full recordings of General Assembly plenary sessions are now available. Watch recorded sessions.

Changes to General Conference Board (GCB)

This summer marked the end of Chair Cathy Musser’s time on GCB; we are exceedingly grateful for her years of exemplary service to our church. Tom Law, who has served on the board since 2018, will take the role as chair, and we look forward to his leadership. Additionally, GCB also added two new members: Jonah Langenderfer and Jacob Lougheed. Learn more about our GCB members.

Future Building Plan Survey

The BIC Foundation recently conducted a future building plan survey to better understand how Brethren in Christ U.S. congregations plan to update their facilities in the next five years. Responses show that renovations, tech updates, and other maintenance projects are close at hand for many congregations, and the Foundation is ready to partner with these congregations to make these dreams a reality. Read more.