Who are You?
My name is Jim Thomas and I pastor a small rural congregation (Holly Springs Bible Fellowship) in Northwest Iowa. I have been the pastor of this fellowship since 1992 after serving as youth Pastor in a multi staff church. I spent most of my life in large cities and large churches. I was unprepared for the difference between large and small church ministries. If you are interested in my background, you can read my biography.
What is This all About?
Some of you may recognize this as the former Agros Ministries site. This is the new and improved version, with greater accessibility. This is the effort of Pastor Jim Thomas. I oversee this web site and its content. I involve myself with a number of pastors who minister in different areas. I gather resources from small church pastors and any web resources I find helpful to myself in ministry. I seek out Pastors who have congregations of less than 125 people and live in towns of less than 2,000 people. Many are located in the Midwest area of the country. I seek people who have very diverse backgrounds, but we are all either fundamental, or evangelical in our approach, depending on your definition of those terms. We pastor Bible churches, Baptist churches, and non denominational churches. It is my goal to make these resources available to you as time allows.
This ministry makes no money, and is not interested in selling things or promoting items that are for sale. This ministry is interested in ministering. I am always looking for articles of encouragement and helps in ministry.
Why a website for small churches?
The current trend in literature and seminars is toward the church growth movement. I do not oppose the church growth movement, since the literature and seminars tremendously challenge areas with a large population. However, the needs in rural ministries are much different. Growth is usually slow and consistent and is based on relationships rather than programs. Having been raised and involved in large ministries, I have found the challenges of rural ministry very different. I have also noticed the lack of information and resources available to small ministries. It is my desire for this internet ministry to fill that void. In 2004, Holly Springs Bible Fellowship started underwriting the cost of this website.
Please understand, I am not an expert. I do speak at seminars and conferences on small church issues. I view myself as a soldier in God’s great army who is trying to conquer a small corner of this world for Christ. I believe the denominations, schools, and many others have left and ignored this field and I believe it is one of the greatest mission fields America has in the 21st century. I am burdened, committed, and encouraged to be a small part of God’s wonderful work.
What do I believe?
You can take a look at my church website and view my doctrinal statement and any specific biographical information you may wish to know. If I can be of help or encouragement or if you have suggestions for this site please email me at JJThomas10@gmail.com
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