Hi Everyone,
Our library has been on a rocky road for a while. However, with our new pastor, things have certainly improved.
That being said, recently I was told that since library books don't save souls, and that's what church is really about, there is no need for inclusion in our budget. that our church's money needs to be spent on other programs.
Hmmm... I know that Lee Strobel's book CASE FOR CHRIST certainly makes a powerful statement about why an atheist became a Christian.
My question is, can anyone out there recommend other titles that can be used to bring a skeptic to salvation?
I'd like to have a list of titles before our next board meeting in two weeks.
Thanks so much,
Linda
Replies
Wooohooo! Wow!
I'm so thrilled for you and your church. Wonderful things are in store.
Thanks for letting us share in your journey, Linda
Not at all, Kay. In fact, I copied the whole thing. will use it in small segments. I'm getting soooo excited!
Just checking in . . .
I'd love to hear an update as to the meeting results and also as to how you're doing, Linda.
Sending a prayer for you as I post this.
Thanks so much for this thread, Linda. I too have been greatly encouraged in this ministry and it's purpose. I am fairly new to this site even though my predecessor, Deanna King was a regular participant. I'm so thankful to find others with the same issues. I agree with all the statements read here including the resources and value of Fiction, and someday I hope to start my own post regarding our "Almost Closing" last year when our leadership decided the library space would be more useful for another purpose. The drama that unfolded over several months, if not the Lord's doing, was certainly used for His purposes to bring Him glory and I'd love to share those insights to hopefully help others struggling in the church library ministry. In the meantime: Thanks to you all and this lovely treasure of a resource I have newly rediscovered!
How encouraging, Wendy. This is why I love this site.
I've poured and poured over this site and gathered so much encouragement and wisdom. I still come back and re-read posts. I hope you post soon & start your own thread. I'd love to hear your story and how God worked through you and others.
Countdown until an important date for you, Linda --- 1/28.
Still praying . . .
I just re-read Kay's reply. I love it.
Linda,
Wow! You have received quite a response from your question. I didn't read every reply so I may be repeating what has already been said but I wanted to add my 2 cents worth...
The mission of our church library is "To provide high quality materials that bring people of all ages closer to God". Every single item that is added to our library must meet that requirement. Every person is on a different path in their journey. So sometimes people need the Bible and other times a devotional book, Christian fiction book, DVD, musical CD, commentary and so many other possible materials to help them develop their faith.
Like most congregations, there were some skeptics before our library started. But I think everyone would agree it is a vital part of our ministry now. We have even had some unexpected blessings... the library feels like a safe place for everyone. Many people who are hurting or struggling feel open to sharing with the librarian. It is our policy to close the library during class and worship but many times the librarian stays to minister to a hurting soul. Also, we always keep a puzzle out. It has been unbelievable how unlikely relationships have blossomed over those puzzles. It thrills my heart to walk into the library and find an elderly widow working on a puzzle with a teen boy. They laugh and have fun and become friends.
Also, it doesn't take a lot of money to have a great library. Our library started and went for several years before being a real part of the church budget. I got incredible items at yard sales/thrift stores. Now I have church members who regularly donate specifically for the library because the appreciate it so much.
Many blessings,
Everlie Bolton
Dothan, Alabama
Truly, I am excited! At the moment, my pastor is training me to be his administrative secretary. That includes setting up a newsletter (which our church has never had). And guess what? As the one who organizes, sets up, and prints the thing, you can bet there will be a section on the Church Library Ministry. All the wonderful comments you folks have contributed will be included at every opportunity (in small snippets, of course).
God is good! He truly does want a Church Library Ministry here in Dubois, Wyoming.
Bless you all!
I think it is great that you are pressing ahead with your convictions to provide quality reading materials for your congregation. It is a frustrating task, yet the rewards are life long. I like you suggestion of Case for Christ; I also recommend any of the Case for.......books by Lee Strobel include Christ for Creator. Even the student editions are great to have a simpler reading style. I also suggest "Purpose Driven Life" by Rick Warren. My daughter was raised in the church, but needed the words spoken to her that God knew her name before she was born. It verified all that she knew and hoped for. Good luck and prayers to you. I believe that a library does save souls and then brings them to discipleship.
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