One exciting aspect of working as an intern with World Impact is learning about the many ways God is using World Impact in the cities and around the world. “Resource Urban Leaders” is one of World Impact’s Four Focus Areas for accomplishing our mission. As churches are planted, leaders receive training and encouragement. I see this in action at The Urban Ministry Institute (TUMI) and Morning Star Ranch.
What an opportunity to take a TUMI class recently! The title of the module was New Testament Witness to Christ and His Kingdom. We studied Jesus’ life, ministry, death, resurrection, and ascension in the historical context. I am grateful that John shared his purpose in writing a gospel in John 20:30-31, “Now Jesus did many other signs in the presence of the disciples, which are not written in this book; but these are written so that you may believe that Jesus is the Christ, the Son of God, and that by believing you may have life in his name.”
Not only was it a blessing to study the life of Jesus Christ, it was also blessing to get to meet my classmates. One of my tablemates appreciates TUMI because she can get an affordable Bible education while she helps with music, youth, and women’s ministry at her urban church. A few of the class members who have spent time in prison are growing in their walk with the Lord and getting equipped to disciple others coming out of prison. The class also includes lay pastors, missionaries, and suburban church leaders.
One of the urban leaders World Impact is resourcing is Tim, the lay pastor of a church plant in Wichita. He said the TUMI classes have equipped him to confidently share the gospel with the people he meets in his community and with the people who attend the church that meets in his home. Many times the lesson in class directly connects to his sermon text for the week.
In addition to TUMI, I see World Impact resourcing urban leaders through conferences. I look forward to serving the Urban Church Association as they hold a conference here at Morning Star Ranch on January 23-24. Six urban churches in Wichita will participate. The pastors, some elders, and their wives will have a chance to relax, encourage one another, pray together for their churches, and plan for the upcoming year. A key element is the training they receive from World Impact. Pastor Tim and his wife look forward to participating.
Amie Busenitz is an intern at Morning Star Ranch in Florence, KS, where she coordinates the kitchen, among other responsibilities for camps and retreats.