The purpose of this unit is to enable congregations to fulfill their mission of making and developing disciples so that more people will be brought to a saving faith in Jesus Christ, be incorporated into the church, and grow toward full maturity in Christ; and to unify congregations, presbyteries and the General Assembly Board of Missions as partners engaged in mission.

The staff seeks to fulfill the purpose through activities, events, services, and publications that will (1) increase awareness of the biblical theology and imperatives for evangelism, (2) assist churches and judicatories in developing growth/evangelism strategies, (3) keep denominational growth trends and accomplishments before the Church, (4) provide and/or support educational and fellowship opportunities for present and future growth/evangelism pastors and lay leaders, and (5) extend the gospel through new church development and church redevelopment in the United States. Unit staff are George Estes, Unite Leader (Memphis, TN), Lynn Thomas, Cross-Culture Mission Developer (Birmingham, AL), and Tom Sanders, Catalyst Church Planting Specialist (Parker, CO). Additional staff include Yoong Kim, Korean Ministry Coordinator and Andrea Johnson, Urban Ministry Coordinator.

Evangelism finds many expressions in the life of the church, including personal faith-sharing, planting new congregations, special worship services, concerts and events intended to present the gospel so that people may come to saving faith in Christ. The New Testament urges us to "do the work of an evangelist" [2 Timothy 4:5]. As you consider ways you personally attempt to respond to the Great Commission to "make disciples of all nations," it is my prayer that the materials you find on this web site will assist you in this high calling.

George Estes

Date Last Updated: November 2, 2005