Interview with Shannon O’Dell, author of Transforming Church in Rural America

Thanks Shannon for taking time to answer my questions… You write in the book of a primarily evangelistic ministry which is ultimately important. I have found in my small town/rural setting that the church is also vital to the community in some other ways as well. What is BNC doing as far as contributing to the life and care of the communities that you serve? In other words, what are the “social ministries” of BNC? O’Dell: Last year alone [we] gave over $75K in mission dollars locally for after school food programs, Thanksgiving baskets, Clean Water, and are beginning a “Mercy Mall” this month locally to distribute food, clothing, bicycles, prom dresses, medical needs and more. Two of the main words that I hear used in discussions these days about the church are “attractional“ and “missional.” I think that you have used an attractional model of ministry which is based on ‘attracting’ people to BNC by offering programs and services (and relationships as well). Missional, as I can best define it, is a model of ministry in which the emphasis is placed on helping the congregation become involved in their fields of home, work, school, etc with the church serving, if you will, as a training place for ministry that takes place “out there.” Is there a missional component to BNC and if so, what is it? O’Dell: BNC is primarily missional.  We have no programs, just non negotiable in service, next gen, community and the weekend experience.  Missional is attentional…transformation is missional and attractional.  A transformed church is both as well. What is the next step in the development of BNC? Where is the Lord directing you to go? O’Dell: Seed sowing in communities with a “BNC Remote” strategy.  We go into a community that God leads us to and see if our ministry is a fit for that community.  We then set up a satellite receiver, key strategic leaders and community mission projects.  It is working.  We are examining everything, from our worship style, to preaching approach, and volunteers. What are you hearing from the rural communities in this country and perhaps around the world in response to your book so far? O’Dell: A brand new belief in God’s mission to grow His church! From Washington to Pennsylvania and even in Australia.  God is going to change churches everywhere! You get the last word! What do you want to say? O’Dell Find out more about what we do and join us next week right here in Bergman Arkansas for our Transforming Rural Church One Day Event!  I would love to meet your readers…sign [in] at  brandnewchurch.com Thanks Shannon! For my review of Shannon’s book go here http://jimkane.wordpress.com/2010/05/19/review-of-shan…-rural-america/