As we step into a new year filled with opportunities, it's a great time to reflect on areas where we can grow—spiritually, relationally, and within our community. Here are some practical ways to grow in 2025:
1. Ways to Grow in Your Faith
- Commit to a Bible Reading Plan: Start the year by diving deeper into God’s word. Choose a plan that fits your schedule and stick with it. Pete uses the Murray McCheyne Bible reading plan which Don Carson has go-to devotionals based on the love of God. The Bible reading plan reads through the Old Testament in a year and the new Testament and psalms twice in a year.
- Spend Time Daily with God in Prayer: Make prayer a daily priority to strengthen your relationship with God.
- Regularly Attend Your Community Group: Engage in meaningful conversations and build deeper connections with fellow believers. Find a group near you.
- Save the Date for Our Next Habit Workshop (March 2): Join us after each service to learn practical ways to form lasting spiritual habits. This month’s topic will be on missional prayer and fasting. No need to register, simply come downstairs after each service.
2. Ways to Grow at Church
- Attend an Upcoming Membership Class to discover how you can become more involved and aligned with the church’s mission. 2025 Upcoming vows and baptism dates are: January 19, March 30, June 15. Register here.
- Sit in a New Section, Meet New People: A simple shift in seating can open doors to new friendships. There are no assigned seats at church, be intentional about shaking new hands during the passing of the peace.
- Volunteer with Us: Even small commitments can have a significant impact. Find a role that fits your gifts and availability. We have several openings this year, select one here.
3. Ways to Grow in Parenting
- Pray for Your Kids: Cover your children in prayer daily, seeking wisdom and protection for them.
- Attend Parent Together with Redeemer Counseling Services: Starting January 22, this series offers invaluable guidance and community.
- Connect with Other Parents: Build friendships with other Redeemer Downtown parents for mutual support and encouragement—for you and your kids.
- Look Forward to @rdtkidsandyouth Events: Stay engaged with upcoming opportunities for your children to grow in their faith.
4. Ways to Grow at Work
- Pray for Your Coworkers, Customers, and Clients: Invite God’s presence into your workplace relationships.
- Join the Center of Faith and Work’s Vocation Lab Course: Starting January 15, this course helps you integrate your faith into your professional life.
- Recognize God’s Purpose for You at Work: Use your unique gifts, time, and ideas to bring glory to Him in your vocation.
5. Ways to Grow in Your Friendships
- Attend a Single Together Night: Explore meaningful topics about navigating relationships in the city.
- Invite Someone for Coffee: Step out of your comfort zone to deepen connections with someone new.
- Extend Your Sunday with a Meal: Share a meal with friends after the service, relax, and discuss what resonated with you during worship.
6. Ways to Grow in Your Neighborhood
- Volunteer with Hope for New York: Make an impact by serving in your local community.
- Host a Local Gathering: Bring people together in your building or neighborhood for a time of connection and fellowship.
- Build Relationships with Neighbors: Take intentional steps to get to know those who live nearby.
7. Ways to Grow in Your Marriage
- Pray for Your Spouse: Regularly lift your partner in prayer, asking for blessings and growth in your relationship.
- Attend a Married Together Session: Strengthen your marriage with practical tools from Redeemer Downtown’s marriage ministry.
- Seek Mentorship from an Older Couple: Gain wisdom and guidance by connecting with a couple further along in their journey.
Ready to Grow?
Whether it’s through deepening your faith, fostering stronger relationships, or serving your community, 2025 offers countless opportunities for growth. Choose one or two areas to focus on and watch how God works in your life and through you this year!
