L.E.A.D.-Lead-Equip-Adapt-Deepen: Garfield’s leadership formation project provides the leadership tools and training that Garfield leaders have self-selected. L.E.A.D. began with interested persons doing their StrengthsFinder survey which assists individuals and the church to understand where our various strengths lie. L.E.A.D. has offered workshops in study the Bible, spiritual discernment process, as well as honoring and utilizing volunteers. The goal is to help persons discover leadership potentials already within them and to guide persons in experiencing ways to lead that come deep from their faith system; that are adaptable to the ever changing face of our church; and that call them to continue to discern God’s call on their lives.
Benefits of ABCGI staff: Garfield Park has been blessed by Congregational Life Facilitator, Jay Kennedy’s, wisdom and leadership. Jay has assisted with board development. In April 2016 he will lead the while church in a re-visioning discernment process. we deeply appreciate Jay’s presence with us!
For the second year in a row Garfield Park Baptist Church has won “Best Float” in the Southside’s Miracle Mile Parade. The historic parade experience rebirth in recent years. Garfield Park Baptist has participated every year since the parade was reformed. We shine the light of Christ by having fun with our community!
In the Fall of 2015 Garfield Park Baptist welcomed new church plant, Iglesia Cristiana into the Garfield family. other churches share the Sunday School hour with Garfield worshiping prior to Sunday School and Iglesia worshiping afterward. Christmas Even was a shared service! Nearly every portion of the service was offered both in Spanish and English. “Silent Night” was sung bi-lingually! Following that traditional singing with lighted candles, persons were sent out with the words “Merry Christmas! Felizs Navidad!” Immediately Iglesia Cristiana’s musician began to play that lively traditional Mexican carol. People swayed their candles to the beat of the music. Some even danced in the aisles! We are blessed to experience the gift of being church together! We welcome Iglesia Cristiana!
Garfield Park has formed numerous community partnerships. The purpose is to find ways to work with others for the improvement of lives in our community. Some partnerships have moved forward quickly while others launch at their own pace. We’ve learned to community and adapt expectations as we negotiate share opportunities. As of February 2016, the senior art class at nearby Christel House Academy has begun to create a mural in the church’s children’s area. The mural will be painted by the students and church folks will have opportunity to add to the mural with “prayer leaves” and sun rays that lead t the love of Christ among us all.