by Eddie Lyons
I recently read an article written by Ron Edmondson entitled “7 Intangible, Seemingly Unproductive Actions Valuable in Leadership.” In his article, he says, “In order for the team to thrive, there are things that may seem unproductive that the leader must spend time doing.” His list includes prayer, thinking, reading, planning, and more. He also includes networking as an important action.
The Baptist Bible Fellowship provides opportunities for networking. Edmondson says that networking, the quick interactions with other leaders, can make a difference and can open the greatest doors. He makes a strong point when he suggests that the success of a leader is often directly related to the strength and size of a leader’s network.
Just this week I got to spend time networking with a church planter from Alabama. I first met Dan Woodcock when a group of BBC students came over to do a little karaoke singing in my basement. Today Dan is a successful church planter whose sacrifice, faithfulness, and love for the unchurched has enabled him to achieve remarkable success. He told me he made the trip to reconnect to his BBFI network. As we talked he expressed how valuable networking was to him. As we shared our experiences in ministry I picked up some great ideas and was inspired by what God has done in his ministry. Networking makes me better at what I do.
Understanding the importance of networking, I’d like to announce the launch of BBFI Specialty Networks. I am grateful to those who have agreed to be the facilitators of this network. The vision for this network is to provide a place where leaders can find resources, ideas, and support. Your church’s leadership team will have people to talk to who are also serving in their areas. I would like to introduce you to the groups and their respective facilitators.
Associate Pastor’s Network
Lance Harrington, Abundant Life Baptist Church, Lee Summit, MO
Worship & Creative Arts Network
Worship: Jared Cate, Battlefield Baptist Church, Warrenton, VA
Media: Rob Lyons, High Street Baptist Church, Springfield, MO
Adults & Discipleship Ministry Network
Matt Adrian, Crosspointe Church, Yorba Linda, CA
Children’s Ministry Network
Tiffany Lyons, High Street Baptist Church, Springfield, MO
Student Ministry Network
Blake Housley, Park Crest Baptist Church, Springfield, MO
Missions & Outreach Ministry Network
Gary & Lisa Wilson, High Street Baptist Church, Springfield, MO
We invite staff and lay leaders to become a part of BBFI Specialty Networks by signing up today at www.bbfi.org. Growing leaders are networkers. A team of growing leaders will grow a church.