One dozen young adults from eight Madison area churches have joined the Madison Masters Commission (MMC), now in its second year at Bethesda Church, 3245 E. Washington Avenue. For four students its their second year, eight are enrolled new this year.
“It’s a school of discipleship and the idea is transformation,” says Brian Bougher, a pastor on Bethesda’s staff and the director of MMC. “The program aims to teach the students to live as Jesus did by combining Biblical study with practical ministry opportunities.”
The Importance of Transformation
Referencing statistics which seem to indicate only one in five youth raised in the church remain involved in the faith as adults, Brian says,
“We’ve gotten good at getting people into the seats (in our churches) but transformation is much more rare.” MMC is a program designed to help the local church create disciples who are strong in their faith.
In addition to staff from Bethesda Church, teaching is provided by other local pastors, as well as local staff members of Youth With a Mission (YWAM) and CareNet Pregnancy Center of Dane County, as well as several other individuals.
“We desire that our young people become passionate followers of Christ, influencers for the better, and leaders in their respective communities, all in which they would be loving God with great impact,” Brian said.
Taking Advantage of Available Opportunities
MMC is a residential program that lasts for nine months, with two weeks off for Christmas. Each days schedule includes prayer and worship, hands-on ministry, and a variety of other opportunities for learning through ministry.
Brian added that MMC is available to do ministry in area churches. “It’s a great joy of ours to come and do services on Sundays, Wednesdays, adults, youth, etc., with theatre, music, dance, etc, but also if their church needs some extra hands for a big outreach they are doing or a project they’re undertaking (a food bank or construction or even sometimes clean up), we would love to help if we’re able.”
For more information on the Madison Masters Commission, check their website at www.madisonmasters.com/.
Brian Bougher talks about MMC and ministry in a chapel service for InterVarsity Christian Fellowship: https://www.intervarsity.org/sites/default/files/podcast/10/09/2010-9-8BrianBougher.mp3