In 2013, after much prayer and deliberation, we decided that the Gaylord United Church of Christ should become a "4-x, permission-giving, community-focused" church. First, we are focused on connecting the resources of our church with the needs of our community. We have asked our members to trust in our leadership and to pray for guidance. We have hosted various church events to welcome and connect
with the Hispanic community in Gaylord. Second, we have given everyone permission to experiment with new ministries, mission outreach programs, and community events...explicitly stating that we have permission to spend up to $2,000 on a new idea, even if it is not successful. We have given members permission to fail, to fail frequently, to fail quickly...and to fail forward! Third, we have encouraged everyone to identify new ministry opportunities. If at least 3 people want to lead the effort, we'll give it a try. Fourth and finally, we are centering on our core strengths, while recognizing we have limited resources. Hence, the "4-x" statement. Our goal is to become a great church each and every year by having at least: 4 great worship services, 4 great musical concerts or events, 4 great community programs, and 4 great mission outreach projects.
