Extraordinary accomplishments happen when a vision of what is possible is guided by the Holy Spirit. Applying technology is a key vehicle of our Christian Education Ministry and its role in strengthening the mission of First Church: “to welcome and nurture our community, help people grow as disciples of Christ, and present a positive witness in today’s world.”
Sharing the Gospel has gone through several technological changes beginning “in the beginning” with millennia of limited verbal communication, to stone tablets, to papyrus, to the Gutenberg press, to mass publication and distribution, the worldwide web and Wycliffe Associates—all for the glory of God.
Fifteen years ago, when Pastor Doug initiated studies based on Christian books, we began displaying the books for purchase in McClure Hall. Through their vision and inspiration, Ed and Ann Schick, former co-chairs of the Adult Christian Education Committee, together with Pastor Doug Pratt built the foundation for what was to become the First Church BookCenter. Ultimately the BookCenter represents our church’s commitment to offer congregants the opportunity to become “literary Christians,” not only spiritually fed but biblically competent, prepared for apologetic encounters.
The Christian Education Ministry continues to identify sources for new programming based on classical and contemporary books, devotionals and Bibles that are offered in the BookCenter in hardback, paperback, CD and DVD formats. The technology we use—from web search engines to virtual video conferencing and communications to internet distribution—all support the church’s mission of nurture, disciple and witness. Our First Flix program would not be possible without the video/audio technology of CenterPoint.
Remember, technology was not invented by mankind, but rather continues to be divinely revealed, assuring that God’s glory will not fade away but be magnified.
by Elder Scott Flaig
