Covenant Partnership at Metanoia Church [top]

Partnering with the Metanoia Church community is an exciting decision and not one to be taken without prayerful consideration. This process is designed in such a way that as you journey along the Pathway to Partnership you will be encouraged in your faith and inspired to serve our Lord Jesus Christ with the covenant community at Metanoia Church. A few things to keep in mind as you journey through the Pathway:

• All are invited. You may not be sure about partnering with Metanoia at this moment. That’s okay! The Pathway is intentionally designed to introduce you to the nuances of Metanoia’s beliefs and practices prior to extending you an opportunity to commit to the Metanoia Church community. Even if you are not ready to partner right now, you are encouraged to participate in the Pathway to have a greater understanding of Metanoia.
• Progress prayerfully and thoughtfully. Address your questions to appropriate persons at Metanoia, search the Scriptures for yourself and pray about your decision.
• Plan ahead and commit to applicable parts of the Pathway. Each element of the Pathway will be offered at various times throughout the calendar year, so plan ahead and fulfill your commitment to attend.
• Choose your pace. With the exception of the Christ Life group study and Focused Living Retreat, each element of the Pathway is “stand alone,” meaning that you can walk through the Pathway at your own pace.

The Metanoia Church Pathway to Partnership: [top]

• I have made a focused life commitment to Jesus Christ as Lord and Savior and subsequently been water baptized by immersion as a believer.
• I am actively involved in a Community Group and/or Life Transformation Group.
• I have completed the 8-week Christ Life group study.
• I have participated in a Focused Living Workshop. Note: Christ Life group study and signed Partnership Covenant are prerequisite.
• I have had a Partnership interview with a pastor or elder.
• I have signed the Metanoia Church Partnership Covenant.

Why “Partnership?” [top]

Covenant Partnership is essentially an invitation to service and leadership at Metanoia Church. In our culture “partnership” instills images of commitment, collaboration and cooperation. This word and the commitment it represents best reflect the sort of covenant communities found throughout the Bible, which we will discuss in Week 8 of the Christ Life group study.

Why should I consider becoming a Covenant Partner of Metanoia Church? [top]

There are several reasons why you should consider becoming a Covenant Partner of Metanoia Church. Among them:

• God may be calling you to be a critical part of his work in and through Metanoia Church. Becoming a Partner signals to other Partners that you are committed to joining them in serving God and joining him at work in our church.
• Commitment is avoided and even feared in our culture in part because of the responsibility involved. Becoming a Partner reflects a heart willing to take a risk by making an important commitment and taking on more responsibility.
• Christians in North America tend to approach church with a consumer mindset, often asking, “What can I get/learn/experience from this church?” Partnership reflects an embracing of committed contribution to the church Body rather than this type of consumer mindset.
• Covenant community is found throughout the Old and New Testaments. It reflects a common commitment to God and to each other.
• Our best teaching opportunities and instruction resources are reserved for those committed to Metanoia Church in Covenant Partnership. Additionally, only Covenant Partners are allowed to serve in the following areas of leadership and instruction at Metanoia Church:
  
  
• Leading Community Groups and ministry teams
• Teaching/Preaching ministries
• Serving as an Elder, Pastor or Deacon

What can Covenant Partners expect from Metanoia Church? [top]

Partnership is a two-way street with equal commitments and responsibilities from both parties. Covenant Partners can expect the following from Metanoia Church:

• To commune with God…
  
  • inspiring worship environments
  • engaging with other believers
  • serving others
  • the nurturing of creative activity
  
  
• To experience community…
• cultivating deep friendship in Life Transformation Groups (LTGs)
• engaging in meaningful service and connection in Community Groups
  
• actively pursuing involvement in Main Street Ellicott City and local communities


• To be equipped for Kingdom impact through…
• Biblical preaching and Christ-centered worship gatherings
• exploring and walking in your life purpose
• equipping for local and global mission and service
• opportunities to engage in transformational culture both locally and globally