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The History of the Red Flannel Challenge

It began merely as a gift of welcoming to the Michigan Area� a taste of the gifts and graces of what lie before me as a new resident to the beauties of the state. I must admit, however, that as I sat down and wrote the article that would be printed in the Michigan Christian Advocate on March 7, 2005, I never thought it would take on the shape and form that it now has. Feeling a bit playful, the challenge was intentionally typed in small print like a binding credit card agreement. It has now become a bold challenge for the greater good.

Originally the call of the challenge was to be for two years. Within those two years, the terms to be met were as follows:

�First, the net growth in membership is 10 percent in a year.

Second, the net growth in stewardship obligations to the annual

conference and general church apportionments is 5 percent

more than the previous year. Third, the congregation strengthens

its prayer life. My offer stands for two years, 2005-6.�

If the terms were met, I would preside in the red flannels that were so graciously gifted to me by the Grand Rapids District on February 6, 2005 all day long in the Detroit or West Michigan Annual Conference.

Since that time, the District Superintendents have gotten on board, pastors and lay leadership have gained passion and interest in making this a priority. So we have pressed onward and upward.

Though we have not reached our goals, we have made significant and positive improvement. As the Cabinet Dean of the West Michigan Cabinet, Rev. Benton Heisler asked, pleaded with me to extend the challenge for another two years. I have agreed. Not because I am dying to be seen presiding in those red flannels, but because there is a passion that is growing for the one who died for us. There is a passion growing that we need to reach others through prayer, service, mission and ministry. There is a passion for doing the very thing Christ called us to do and that is to make disciples. To God be the glory!

Watch this site for updates on how to be on board with us and SEE RED FOR CHRIST IN THE MICHIGAN AREA AND BEYOND!