Leaders are people who . . .
● Focus on invitation and vision,
● Model and support servant leadership,
● Involve others in rethinking ministry, and
● Utilize the gifts of the Spirit to bring others to Christ.
     [complete list]

In March, 2000, Pastor Gary G. Heaton began serving Living Water Lutheran Church, a three-year-old restart congregation begun with members from two former Lutheran congregations in Mandan, North Dakota. Today in this town of 16,000 people located on Interstate Highway 94 near Bismarck, Living Water is growing with young families.

"When we think what might be possible and focus on the future, we have discovered a vision. As a mission developer I’ve discovered a sense of being a part of a growing ministry, carrying the Gospel into the world, making disciples for Jesus Christ. I am able to help people discover their gifts and think of themselves as the church called to be servant in the world, and to challenge them to rethink old attitudes and be more effective in their proclamation. I believe people respond to invitation and appreciate honesty. When a man claiming to be an atheist asked if I was trying to convert him, I told him that my job was to be faithful to Christ and let the Holy Spirit do the converting."
Gary Heaton

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