Small and Rural Church
Annie Dillard says, “This seeing business is risky.” What do you see happening in the world? What do you see happening in small churches (or rural churches)? Many of us see the trends. When we measure by the matrices of the secular world (nickels and noses), we are concerned or even anxious. As we gather at Summit, we will remember together the transcendence of God. Do we believe that God will do what God has promised to do? Is God at work in our own churches? What are we seeing? How can we put our congregations in the pathway of God to experience joy, hope, and encouragement? Can we learn to wait upon the Lord, to live patiently, confidently, and joyfully, even in the hardest spaces? This seeing business is risky! What are you seeing? Would you come share in this conversation with us?
COMMUNITY DETAILS
Dr. Michael Harbour and Dr. Tiffany Dahlman are guiding the small/rural church community at Summit this fall. We are excited to have their dedication to and passion for smaller churches leading this ministry area. Check back for more information on how this conversation will unfold.
Facilitators
Michael Harbour
MICHAEL HARBOUR
Dr. Michael Harbour has served in various churches as preaching minister. For the last eight years, he has worked with the 4th and Elm Church in Sweetwater, Texas. He has served as faculty and staff at Abilene Christian University and Grand Canyon University. He is also a professional photographer. He has studied at the University of Oklahoma, Stephen F. Austin State University, and ACU. He completed his D.Min. at ACU in 2006. His project was titled Blessing and Sending the Church into the World for the Sake of the World, Using Congregational Blessings as a Missional Enterprise. Michael and Sandra were married in Abilene, Texas in 1982. Their two children, Jake and Jacquie, make them proud.
Tiffany Dahlman
TIFFANY DAHLMAN
Dr. Tiffany Dahlman is the lead minister at Courtyard Church of Christ. She is also the Assistant Dean for Vocational Formation at ACU Dallas, and Program Director for their online Bible and ministry coursework and Church Leadership Certificates. She holds an M.Div. with concentrations in Old Testament and Spiritual Formation from Asbury Theological Seminary and a doctorate in Preaching for Community Transformation from ACU. She lives with her family perfectly situated between the mountains and the sea in North Carolina.