In the last entry, we talked about better utilizing our facilities and structures for growth. I think that we should also think about the utilization of resources in terms of people.Bluntly put, if we rely only on preachers for evangelism and revival, the job will never be done- there just aren't enough to go around.
In Iowa, there are more counties than the total number of licensed Apostolic preachers (including retirees and those just starting out). This means that we have to look across the board at who we have in our churches, and put everyone to work at some level.At Calvary, we not only have the daughter work in Perry, but we have also tried to utilize the time and talents of 'laity' in a variety of ministries.
On Tuesdays we have worship at Stonecrest apartments, and utilize a variety of people there. We also use a variety of people in our Spanish service, Scouts, Small groups and the other ministries of the church.We have to put people to work beyond the Sunday and Wednesday service (including the pastor). I believe that it is even possible to open extension services, preaching points and daughter works utilizing the talents of laity, with the oversight of the ministry. This gives and opportunity for singers, musicians, speakers, and others who may not be used in the primary services and opportunity to be involved in the work of God.
Important Links to Visit
Pastor Deckard
About Me
.jpg)
- R. Deckard
- Des Moines, Iowa, United States
- Pastor Rex Deckard was born in Bloomington, Indiana. He received his BS degree from Indiana University, his Masters degree from Trevecca College, and did post graduate work at the University of Tennessee. He is a licensed K-12 School Administrator and a certified teacher. Pastor Deckard has been involved in a variety of ministry roles: planting churches, home missionary work, curriculum development for Word Aflame publications, teaching overseas in Papua New Guinea, and leadership development. His writing has been featured in numerous magazines, both secular and Christian. He has pastored churches in Tennesee, Indiana and Iowa. He is the Coordinator of Apostolic Training Institute, a distance learning initiative of the Home Missions Division, and is a member of the Iowa District Board of the United Pentecostal Church. He is the pastor at Calvary Apostolic Church, 2611 Easton Boulevard in Des Moines, Iowa. Family and Interests The Deckard family consists of wife Brenda (both a musician, songwriter and nurse), daughter Emilile (student at Des Moines Area Community College) and son Rex Adam (student at Iowa Christian Academy).