What is a Missional Church?

“Missional Church is an authentic faith community whose primary ministry focus is outward, on mission with God bringing Christ’s love alive in their neighborhood and beyond.”

In 2010, several First Baptist members expressed an interest in becoming a more missional church in our local community. They participated in Missional Church Learning Experience training with the mid-American Baptist Churches. Based on input from the Church Row Historic Neighborhood Association, First Baptist created a proposal to clean up the church property and spread that pride throughout the local block surrounding the church. Members participated in several activities to reach out and get acquainted with our neighbors, from Christmas caroling and passing out cookies, cupcakes and loaves of bread door-to-door to invitations to a Chili Cook-off and an ice cream social. More of the neighbors are beginning to recognize persons from the church and are attending some of church events and activities.

Other Local Out-Reaches:

Monthly Community Meal
Last Wednesday of the month (except December), from 4:30-6:00 p.m. We serve a meal to anyone in the community who needs a meal or social interaction. There is no cost. Come and be welcome and bring others!

Narcotics Anonymous
Meets every Monday at 7:30 p.m. and every Thursday at 6:00 p.m.

Friends in Fun & Fellowship
During our four-week summer program for kids, we are also a site for the Waterloo Community Schools free lunch program.

Partners in Education with Irving Elementary School
Some of our members volunteer to listen to kids read. During the year, we help with certain needs: in the Fall with school supplies, at Christmas in adopting families to give gifts ad during Iowa Tests of Basic Skills in the Spring, we pack up brain food snacks to help the students.

Family & Children’s Council and the Salvation Army
We give offerings at special times during the year.

Prayer Chain
We have a dedicated group of prayer warriors who pray for needs as they arise for anyone. Requests may be submitted by writing or calling the church office.

I will answer them before they even call to me. While they are still talking to me about their needs, I will go ahead and answer their prayers. – Isaiah 65:24

I love the Lord because he hears my prayer and answers them. Because he bends down and listens, I will pray as long as I breathe! – Psalm 116:12