Pastors-
My name is Kumbe-wa. I pastor a congregation in the Sudanese shanties outside Khartoum. I am having quite a time in growing my congregation. No matter what we do, it seems to result in dwindling my congregation. Well, yes, my assistant pastor was crucified by the government last week. And yes, all my boy catechumens were taken for slave labor, and the girls were taken to service the military. Everyone else has been beaten and abused. The army has taken away our food ration cards. Our congregations are just falling apart.
While sitting imprisoned here awaiting my own trial and crucifiction, my fellow pastors and I are trying to advise our remaining congregants. We became quite taken with Luecke's book "Courageous Congregations" and Hunter's book "Confessions of Church Growth Enthusiast". So dear pastors, we have a few ideas. Should we replace our paraments with those fashioned after the Sudanese tri-color? Send a delegation to a large men's gathering in Mecca early next year? Perhaps suspend Christmas celebrations for Al-Eid? We're also thinking about bringing a local mullah and mufti to preach to us, too. Good idea? Should we include animist rites? That would broaden our appeal amongst the downtrodden. The only thing we're really confused about is this thing about influence. What's that? The last time we send folks to petition the government they came back in plastic bags. Are we perhaps just one of those congregations that just can't grow?
Please reply as soon as possible to Rev Sin-wase, as I will no doubt not be alive by then. He will be beheaded in about three months. Your reply is eagerly sought. Thank you.
Rev Kumbe-wa.