What’s going on with the new mission church? I haven’t heard much about it.

Mostly what’s going on is a lot of behind-the-scenes type preparation. But you’ll be hearing more as the summer goes on as we start promotions and outreach activities that will lead toward a first worship service. If it is God’s timing, we hope to start worship late-August or early September.

Here’s a taste of some of the prep work that’s been happening lately:

A "new life" logo has been designed.

The members of the circuit Lutheran Women’s Missionary League designed and quilted a banner with the mission’s name and logo.

Core group members visited each of the congregations in our circuit, informing members of the new mission in our circuit and asking for volunteers to be prayer partners who will pray for the mission and the unchurched people it can reach. (Just like Pastor Rich Hamlow did at Shepherd of the Hills, May 20.)

A constitution was recently presented to the district for their approval.

We’ve had discussions with the School of Outreach at Concordia University, St. Paul, about applying for a Director of Outreach intern who can also serve as youth minister. This would be an excellent opportunity for Shepherd of the Hills to share the intern.

A web site has recently been developed. Check it out at www.newlifelutheran.com

We are in the process of putting together a 3-year plan for ministry.

Currently a location is being sought to lease for worship services.

We’ll be discussing possible ministries that Shepherd of the Hills and New Life can share at the next elders meeting.