Lighthouse congregations are local churches in The North Carolina Conference that are equipped and willing to be a caring and hospitable place that welcomes anyone whose church has closed or disaffiliated.
Lighthouse Congregations are committed to
- Worship: Providing worship opportunities, whether online or in person. These services should be intentional about engaging and welcoming new people into the fold.
- Discipleship: Creating space to learn and grow, through small group gatherings, Bible studies, and prayer opportunities.
- Mission: Inviting fellow United Methodists into opportunities to serve through hands-on ministries. This can include things like backpack ministries, community gardens, literacy and C4C programs, or anything that involves making a difference and sharing the love of God with others.
- Sacrament: Communion will be offered at least one Sunday a month, but also may include invitations to communion outside of traditional worship, such as mid-week gatherings and in small groups.
- Pastoral Care: Offering care such as hospital visits, gatherings at coffee shops, and finding ways to be available to those who are in need of pastoral care. This is not just the responsibility of the pastor but includes ways in which the congregation may engage in visitation ministries, meal trains, and communications ministries.
