The intent of every ministry in the department is to be both progressive and relevant to meet the needs of a diverse community—progressive by teaching a timeless message in ways consistent with best practices for teaching and learning; and relevant by expecting content and instruction to respond specifically and practically to the various learning needs and life experiences of all learners.
By involvement in the department’s work, learners will be transformed by seeking to develop the likeness of Christ, and equipped for “every good work”—sharing their growth and expertise with others. Knowledge is taught and learned to develop understanding. Through developing understanding, combined with life experience, learners deepen their relationship with God and strengthen their commitment to others.
All learners should understand that...
spiritual growth is an intentional process that takes place over time with current and
eternal implications,
maturity is evinced by the consistent demonstration of Christ-like behavior, more so than the retention of facts, sharing of opinions, and recitation of beliefs,
maturity takes place in relation with others and builds upon our experiences with others, and an individual’s maturity brings with it an increasing expectation of nurturing the growth of others,
by considering the following questions:
What does spiritual growth look and sound like?
How does the knowledge and understanding I gain draw me closer to God?
How does what I learn impact how I live and what I do?
How does new knowledge and understanding change my relationships with, and my
responsibility to, other members of the community?
Every learning and growth experience should be structured to develop those understandings and every learner should be asked to consider the questions. Doing so creates a department-wide standard for all learning experiences overseen by the Maturity Department. On-going review and assessment coupled with a humble spirit of reflection asks leaders in the department to model the growth and learning expected of others.
In seeking to educate and equip members of the community and in partnership with the other departments in the church, the Maturity Department is dedicated to developing Christ-like servants purposed to be significant contributors to the New Salem Community of Caring and beyond. |
