I shared with the congregation this week a summary of the year, in particular, all that the church has done to make our strategy come alive. You can view the 9-minute translated video on YouTube.
The strategy has 3 pillars; spiritual development across all age groups, unity and development of servant hearts, and evangelism to the West Footscray community.
Spiritual development across all age groups
We've uplifted our online capability. After starting the year with a phone on a tripod at the front, we now have a fantastic camera and can stream our services seamlessly online.
We've invested in our two youth leaders, including their attendance in the Baptist Union of Victoria EMERGE program for young leaders. We've also continued to develop as a leadership team.
Our youth group has been meeting throughout the year, with regular engagement with the core group.
Our Sunday morning service worship team has grown from 1 and 3 regular singers.
Group Esperanza (our seniors) have continued to meet and enjoyed a memorable Chilean and El Salvadorian independence celebration.
Sunday School, arguably our key strength, experienced a number of children giving their life to Christ, and
We celebrated a baptism
Unity and development of servant's hearts
Completed some of the urgent work needed on our facilities, including the roof leak and the new carpet in the multipurpose space
We continued to support our missionaries through your generous giving, including relinking with the Diaz family.
Continued to serve each other at events and care for one another throughout the year
Evangelism to the West Footscray community
Moved to presenting the message in English (while being translated on Zoom)
Maintained a warm and welcoming environment and culture
Updated our fellowship area
Invited friends and family to events and our Sunday morning service