Community Ministry Interest Survey

Only 3 Questions!

The Community Engagement Mission Action Team is considering offering a program called "Growing Your Church's Local Ministry" which would prepare parishes to take next steps toward a new or revised community ministry program in your church, focusing on local issues such as food insecurity, community health, poverty, or children and youth.

Led by authors and ministry consultants Joy Skjegstad and Heidi Unruh, this program would last approximately four months and feature 6-8 engaging 90-minute sessions, with the possibility of meeting in person for the first and last sessions and on Zoom in between. Participants would complete guided assignments, receive feedback from consultants, engage in group discussions, and participate in mini-trainings. Together, participants would clarify their ministry focus through community listening and asset discovery, learn from a variety of ministry models and examples, strengthen relationships with community members and partners, and develop a practical plan for next steps toward new or expanded ministry.

Joy Skjegstad and Heidi Unruh are consultants, trainers, and authors with a deep appreciation for the vital role of the local church. They bring decades of experience helping congregations build effective community ministries, particularly those rooted in authentic relationships.

Their passion is supporting congregations as they make God's love and justice visible in creative and meaningful ways. Whether your church's dream is to create affordable housing, partner with a local public school, start a community garden, host family fun nights, launch a Bible study for young entrepreneurs, or develop a mental health coalition, they can help you turn that vision into life-giving ministry.