The SIAFU Guidebook

62 The SIAFU Network Guidebook

Objection 1: We already have a fine young adult and adult ministry, and therefore have no need for a SIAFU Chapter.

The Argument: “Our pastor doesn’t believe we need one. He believes that the Lord has blessed our Women’s and Men’s Ministry, and feels we already have a group to meet the needs of those in our congregation. We don’t need no Chapters in our church!” The Answer: Praise God for your adult ministry efforts! SIAFU may not be right for you, or it may actually strengthen your current work even more. We wholeheartedly support and affirm the pastor’s and/or leadership team’s assessment of your adult ministry group. Continue to increase and abound in your great efforts, seeking the Holy Spirit’s direction in your work. SIAFU, however, ought not necessarily be seen as a replacement for your own fine ministry, but as an opportunity to both extend and enhance it. It extends the borders of your group, connecting it with others in your locale, state, region, and across the country. It enhances your group by integrating you with dozens of other churches who also host Chapters, giving you a platform for relationship, contact, and cooperation with others who share your vision and commitment to men and women, and to the transformation of the city in Christ’s name. The SIAFU Network is neither a competition nor an antagonism. We celebrate every strong association that is occurring between and among urban churches and urban Christian leaders, and pray that SIAFU will add to the number and quality of strong partnerships among Christian churches everywhere!