Winning the World

Append i x 193

The Concept of the Locale Church, continued

3. Acknowledge the historical benefit of having congregational oversight (i.e., bishop or council) in the life of vulnerable, fledgling congregations and their leaders.

a. Regional relationships are key to connecting pastors and churches .

b. Regional relationships ensure the sharing of provision among churches which cannot meet their full need alone. c. Regional relationships establish some level of self-chosen oversight for pastors who are accustomed to functioning as Lone Rangers. d. Regional relationships open up the possibility of new outreach and mission by connecting believers of good will around issues and projects which require our attention as believers in our locale .