How can we reshape ministry in evaporating small communities?

Abstract

I begin this thesis by giving the background of the study which is to understand ministry of the church in evaporating small communities. The United Church should consider reshaping ministry in small evaporating communities. The research’s focus is Burgeo which lies on the south coast of Newfoundland. The thesis question is: How can we reshape ministry in small evaporating communities? I argue that meaningful missional reflection starts by knowing the church in small communities. This calls for a paradigm shift in the way the church does mission. This thesis also deals with understanding ecclesia and ministry in small communities. The traditional understanding of ministry in small communities should shift toward understanding the context of these communities. Understanding the identity of the small community church will enlighten the members of the United Church of Canada to accept the Missio Dei as their vocation and challenge regardless of where they are.