The Partnership Project
Thinking about, planning, or implementing a congregational partnership? On this page, you’ll find a variety of resources, including Bible studies, checklists, models, assessment tools, and sample documents, designed to help you work through the process. If you have ideas for future additions, please let us know!
Downloading The Partnership Planning Process is a good place to start.
Partnership Project Core Library
Bible Studies
Gathered Wisdom
Ministry Agreements
Partnership Project Assessment Tools
re:Vitality
The Synod’s re:Vitality program, which focuses on strengthening a congregation’s ability to invite, welcome, and receive people, begins with a no-cost guided self-assessment that helps a congregation determine its “stage of vitality.” Churches can then implement training modules (a combination of videos and practical exercises) that best suit their needs. “Connect to Disciple,” the first module, focuses on effective outreach.
Demographics
Lutheran Church Extension Fund (LCEF) makes demographic reports and studies available to congregations within the Nebraska District. Demographic information provides an overview of a community based on population trends, economic factors, attitudes of residents, and more. Congregations can request demographic information by contacting Nate Meier, LCEF Nebraska District Vice President, at nate.meier@lcef.org. If you represent an LCMS congregation outside of the Nebraska District, you may contact your own district office for assistance.
Religion-Specific Information
The ARDA: Association of Religious Data Archives
http://thearda.com/
Provides a wealth of religious data from 2010. Click on the “US Congregational Membership” tab, and you’ll find options for accessing reports by zip code, county, metro area, and state.
FaithView from Barna
https://www.barna.com/barna-introduces-faithview/
A subscription-based tool providing data on demographics, beliefs, and practices
General Demographic Information
City-Data.com
http://www.city-data.com/
Statistical Atlas
https://statisticalatlas.com/
Vision and Ministry Planning
Christians in Nebraska have a tremendous God-given opportunity right now to share the Good News of Jesus with those who don’t know Him. God has brought the mission field to Nebraska and given us the privilege of being light and salt to the people in our communities.
Each person in your congregation receives the tools he or she needs to enter the mission field through worship, God’s Word and Sacraments, Bible studies, Sunday school, youth activities, and other ministries your congregation offers.
However, a clear and unified vision is necessary as the church ventures out into the community. A clear and agreed upon picture of a preferred future comes by seeking God’s will and seeing where He is already at work in the community.
Nebraska District staff is available to walk alongside congregations as they learn more about their community and work together to develop a ministry plan that will help guide them to be witnesses, to show mercy, and to welcome their neighbors into their life together in Christ.
Contact Kim Hofer to learn more about how you and your congregation can engage in the mission opportunities right outside your door.