Growth is natural to the church’s life. The church is called into being and exists to reach out to those who have not experienced God’s grace in Christ, and to nourish them with all the means of grace.

Confession of Faith for Cumberland Presbyterians, Section 5.29

 

 

What is Initiative 5.29?

Initiative 5.29 is the Cumberland Presbyterian Church fully embodying “The Church
in Mission:” especially the call to grow, reach outward, and nourish people with all
means of grace. Initiative 5.29 is for every Cumberland Presbyterian, giving us
compelling ways to share our faith in Jesus Christ with our family, friends,
acquaintances, and community.

 

How does Initiative 5.29 work?

Beginning in 2027, you and your congregation can join with all Cumberland
Presbyterians by:

  • Praying for and with your congregation in ways that emphasize the call to share
    the Gospel of Jesus Christ, encourage professions of faith, and strengthen our
    discipleship.
  • Cultivating worship that challenges us to share the gospel in responsible and
    compelling ways and invite others to make a profession of faith.
  • Encouraging presbyterial boards of missions to engage and challenge the
    congregations under its care to work together in our shared mission to witness
    to the Gospel of Jesus Christ.

 

How do I get started?

The purpose of Initiative 5.29 is to challenge and support Cumberland
Presbyterians to be outward-focused, to equip members as effective witnesses for
Christ, and to focus on the work of church revitalization.

We will live out our commitment to this Initiative in a variety of ways:

  • All participants will follow a prayer guide developed by the Ministry Council for
    individual and congregational use. Each week, we will all be praying with the
    same intent and focus.
  • Ministers will be encouraged to develop and lead worship services that include
    evangelistic sermons and invitations focused on professions of faith.
  • Congregations will utilize Ministry Council resources throughout the year to
    assist us in how to share the Gospel of Jesus Christ in our homes, schools,
    workplace, and community.
  • Participating churches will send leaders (ministers and lay persons) to the
    Initiative 5.29 Conference in Huntsville, Alabama May 5-7, 2027.

 

Where do I go for more information?

  • T. J. Malinoski
    Director of Evangelism, New Church
    Development & Intercultural Ministries
    901.276.4572 ext.232
    TMalinoski@cumbelrand.org
  • Chris Fleming
    ENGAGE, Director of
    Congregational Ministries
    615-424-8561
    Cfleming@cumberland.org
  • Jen Newell
    Louisa Woosely Preaching Initiative
    Program Director
    901.276.4572 ext.265
    Jnewell@cumberland.org