God is on the move across our churches, but joining in with what He is doing requires workers who are ready for the harvest. As General Secretary Lynn Green highlights on p6, and Lee Johnson, Team Leader of the Ministries Team on p9, our Baptist movement is facing a crucial moment. Increased spiritual openness leading to more baptisms, growing opportunities for renewed discipleship, and a wave of upcoming ministerial retirements mean we need more women and men to respond to God’s call to lead. 

This edition of Together magazine highlights that reality. We explore what it means not only to step into accredited Baptist ministry, but to sustain a healthy, flourishing calling over the long haul: from navigating the practical pathways towards accreditation, to understanding the holistic nature of ministerial formation. 

A recurring theme is how raising up leaders is a shared responsibility. Several pieces remind us that discerning calling is not an isolated task; it belongs to us all. What might happen if we each took personal responsibility to actively spot, name, and nurture the nascent gifts we see in those sitting in our pews and serving in our local communities? 

Recognising potential is only the first step. It’s important to back this up by creating intentional opportunities for people to serve – giving emerging leaders space to practise, hone their skills, and receive gracious coaching along the way. For the full potential of God’s church to be realised, every single member needs to play their part. 

So whether you are quietly sensing a call to accredited ministry, reflecting on your own ongoing spiritual growth, or being challenged to encourage the gifts in someone else, may this edition enrich your discernment.  

In response to God asking, “Whom shall I send?”, the prophet Isaiah declared, “Here am I, send me!” What path lies before you today? How and where are you sensing God’s call – and are you ready to follow it?  

As Lynn reminds us, stepping out in faith and saying ‘yes’ to God is the adventure of a lifetime.


The key articles in the magazine are featured below:
 

A printed copy of the magazine is being sent to each minister, church secretary and church treasurer and additional copies are available to purchase from our online shop.