Every month, we’re profiling a church leader just like you. This month, we’re featuring Dave Safstrom.
Dave has been on a Groups Team Leader at LCBC in Lancaster, PA, for the last five years.
What’s your favorite part of the job?
I love seeing the ‘lightbulb’ go on. When individuals/couples grab hold of the inspiration of Jesus’ love and wisdom and see how it applies in their lives and relationship, you know it’s going to make a difference for years to come.
What are some challenges you face at your church?
We need more premarital mentors. Not for lack of interest, but for how many couples want good premarital mentoring. Says a lot about young couples wanting the best possible start to their marriage!
How has MarriedPeople changed how your church works with marriages?
MP is how we started our Young & Married ministry three years ago, and is providing the content to get another campus up and running in seasonal marriage ministry. The MP model itself challenges us to not settle for a one-and-done event approach. We’re just scratching the surface of what’s possible.
What’s one helpful tip you’d like to share with other church leaders?
Start! Don’t wait for critical mass for a big event. Gather a few invested couples, invite them to pray and cast vision for challenging and equipping marriages in your community, then engage effectively with the MP model. One more thing.. increase their love-literacy one step at a time (don’t throw a theological encyclopedia at them).
Are there any other helpful resources you’d recommend people check out?
- Orienting any couple: SYMBIS book by Les and Leslie Parrott
- Re-orienting Christian/curious couple: Staying in Love by Andy Stanley
- Healing and nourishing any couple: marital counseling. So healthy and helpful!
Want to be featured on the blog?
If you’re a MarriedPeople partner and want to be featured on the blog, just fill out the form here and we’ll be in touch.
Married People exists to help your church help marriages. We provide resources, training, and community to church leaders who work with marriages and families.
