Interview with: George Milliken, Elder, First Presbyterian Church of Frostproof
The key is: We want our members to be excited about the fellowship we have in Christ and one another and to have a desire to share that with others. This is being taught and studied in Sunday school, men’s group, women’s bible study groups, and most importantly, from the pulpit.
Good teaching is essential to discipleship and spiritual growth of the church. Nonetheless, people must be present for that to happen. Our church is actively seeking God’s guidance through prayer in a men’s group, women’s groups, and elders to recognize opportunities for outreach.
What is Frostproof doing to strengthen the congregation to reach the next generation?
Within the church, young people are included in events initiated by seniors such as women’s ministries Christmas dinner and cookie baking and decorating. We are also building and strengthening the youth group while involving senior members in Family Fun Days and other events where both groups interact in fellowship together. This is especially important for it provides an opportunity for seniors to mentor and disciple young people and their families.
Anything you’ve learned in the journey that would encourage other older congregations on this journey?
We encourage members to invite others to attend church functions. We are also serving our community through youth service projects, a shoe ministry with the local schools, and teacher appreciation breakfast. Since our area is routinely affected by hurricanes, the youth group is learning how to maintain and operate generators for when the need arises. The community will be better prepared to assist each other through Christian sharing.
As people become more confident in sharing their faith through “helping” activities, the membership will grow and develop as will people of the community. The fellowship will experience the excitement of discipling each other and spreading the excitement to the community.
All of these things are activities that demonstrate spiritual growth, but it is important to recognize that spiritual growth starts with the individual hearing the call of Christ and recognizing the indwelling of the Holy Spirit. The activities are a reflection of that in which the seekers in the community may be stirred.
Anything else you’d like to share?
Something that Pastor Garison began was praying for three families to join the church. That has happened by God’s will. Now, we are praying for more five more families to join our fellowship. Pray for First Pres of Frostproof to fulfill the Great Commission. Everyone in the church must be excited about spreading the Word of God and the significance of being in union with Christ.
