Westside Family Church began in 1976, but in 1994 a restructuring took place when the decision was made to begin doing things from a Purpose Driven perspective. It was at this time that the philosophy of ministry at Westside changed. They went from "staff doing all of the ministry to staff being the equippers and lay ministers doing the ministry." The ministry team has since begun to teach C.L.A.S.S. 301, focusing on finding one’s S.H.A.P.E. for ministry, as well as providing S.H.A.P.E. sessions allowing the members to meet with a guide who will help them discern the ministry for which they are specifically shaped.
As a church that is always attempting to learn, grow, and experiment, Merle says that Westside is currently trying to implement an abbreviated version of all of their classes (101, 201, 301), calling it "Drive," as in 1st drive, 2nd drive, all the way to Overdrive. In an hour and a half, the basics of each class will be taught and a more intensive, thorough class will be offered at another time, as well. It isn’t certain what the outcome will be as of yet, but Merle and the staff at Westside believe in the importance of constantly learning and trying new things. Merle also firmly believes that Westside Family Church has "the best volunteers anywhere," proving the huge heart that Merle and the whole church staff have for their volunteers. Merle takes very seriously a statement that pastor Andy Stanley once said regarding volunteers: "It’s not what we want from them; it’s what we want for them." And the staff at Westside truly wants to see their members who are serving, grow and recognize their eternal value.
Visit this unique ministry on the web at
http://www.purposedriven.com/en-US/SHAPE/MinistrySpotlight/WestsideFamilyChurch.htm
Article Copyright Michelle Blackmon
