Members’ Welcome Guide RESTORATION FELLOWSHIP MINISTRIES - MEMBERS’ WELCOME GUIDE
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CONTENTS 1.
Welcome
2.
History of RFM
3.
Mission Statement
4.
Statement of Faith & Beliefs
5.
Tithing
6.
Becoming a worker
7.
Ministry Guide
8.
List of Ministries
Ministry Outline
Church Structure
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Welcome Welcome to Restoration Fellowship Ministries. We trust you will find this pack insightful and useful in understanding the church family you have now joined. Our commitment to you:
We are committed to supporting, teaching, encouraging and admonishing you.
We are committed to providing you with bible based counselling.
We are committed to your confidentiality.
We are committed to developing and equipping you for success in your everyday life.
We are committed to your spiritual growth.
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“We proclaim Him, admonishing and teaching everyone with all wisdom, so that we may present everyone perfect in Christ.” Colossians 1:28
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History Restoration Fellowship Ministries (RFM) began on Sunday 30th September 2007 with Dr Carol Tomlin and Sister Tamika PuseySquire. Following many years of a successful home bible study, the church began in the home of Sister Tamika. Dr Tomlin received a prophetic word from the Lord about the ministry, from Pastor Idy Samuel, a pastor who she had never met before and who had no foreknowledge of her calling. He called her out from a church she was visiting and said she was a ‘minister of God, the stage was set and the resources would be manifested’.
The church later moved to St Mary’s Church Hall on Hamstead Road, in Handsworth, Birmingham where it began its first Sunday service on October 21 2007 Subsequently, from Sunday, June 16 2008 the Church hired and moved to the Epiphany Church, a branch of St Mary’s, on Cherry Orchard Road, Handsworth Wood in Birmingham,.
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Our Leaders Rev. Dr Carol Tomlin is Senior Pastor of Restoration Fellowship Ministries (RFM) and a Specialist Faith Chaplain registered with the UK Board of Healthcare Chaplaincy. She is a licensed and ordained minister with an M.Phil in Theology from the University of Birmingham, Ph.D in Education and Sociolinguistics from the University of Reading together with qualifications from other universities. Dr. Tomlin is a Senior Lecturer in Education Studies at the University of Wolverhampton and an educational consultant. She is an author and international speaker. She is often invited as a keynote/guest speaker at community and church She is often invited as a keynote/guest speaker at community and church events. For example, she presented a keynote speech at the BME (Black & Minority Ethnic) Women's Aspirations Network Conference in (2009). Dr Tomlin is the leading expert in Black preaching style and has presented on this topic for the Churches Together in England at their head office in London, and at Westminster College, Cambridge. She also gave an interview on Black preachers in the diaspora for the BBC production of the Black Messiah (2001). As a published author her work includes Black Language Style in Sacred and Secular Contexts, The Oppositional Culture Theory (2010), co-authored with Dr Paul Mocombe and Patterns of Engagement and Spirituality of Black People in the USA and UK (forthcoming and co-authored with Dr Mocombe). She believes in the power of education to transform the lives of individuals.
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Prophetess Tamika Pusey-Squire is Assistant Pastor and co- founder of Restoration Fellowship Ministries (RFM) in Birmingham. She is a motivational speaker, writer, designer and administrative consultant. In 2005, she received a prophetic word confirming that her mission was to “speak the word of God, and salvation and deliverance would come to many”. Later, she answered the call of God to minister His word and helped build RFM, a church aimed at healing hearts and bringing restoration into the lives of God’s children. She is an ordained and licensed minister, an anointed singer, preacher . Prophet and teacher who has a passion for the lost and the spiritually wounded. She was awarded with the Aspirations Woman of the Year 2009 by the BME (Black & Minority Ethnic) Business Women's Network. She was also nominated for the Life Changing Leadership Education Award 2010 by the Council of Black Led Churches (CBLC). She writes various media publications such as articles, newsletters and blogs. She is author of Love Addiction (2010) and has been featured on various radio shows.
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Mission Statement Restoration Fellowship Ministries (RFM) aims to provide a service where individuals are catered for spiritually, socially and educationally, through various outreaches to the community. RFM is a channel for advocacy and is a place where everyone can experience and fulfil their potential through the love of Jesus Christ.
We believe that God wants every person to have a relationship with Him.
We believe that each individual is unique and that God wants to restore us to our original purpose.
We aim at Restoration to be a channel where everyone can experience and fulfil their potential through the blood and love of Jesus Christ.
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“I will restore to you the years that the swarming locust has eaten…” Joel 2:25 (KJV)
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Statement of Faith & Beliefs Restoration Fellowship Ministries is a non-denominational church. The Bible is the infallible Word of God, inspired by the Holy Spirit. 2 Timothy 3:16-17; 2 Peter 1:20, 21. There is one God, existing eternally in three persons: God the Father, God the Son and God the Holy Spirit. John 10:30; John 14:26; Philippians 2:5-7. Man is created in the image of God but sin has separated us from God. God is Love. He manifested His love by sending his Son, Jesus Christ to die for our sins. God loves us so much that he wants every individual to have a personal relationship with Him through Jesus. Genesis 1:26; 1 Timothy 2:5; 1John 4:8-9;
basis of salvation and by accepting Him as Lord and Saviour we will live eternally with God in heaven. Matthew 27; Matthew 28: 5-7; Mark 16: 4-6; Luke 24; 2-6; 36-46 John 20. John 10:10; Galatians 2:20. The only way to God is through God’s plan of salvation made available to us only through Jesus. Salvation is not gained by the works that we do but can only be obtained by receiving the Grace of God through faith in Jesus. Grace is God’s unmerited and free gift of salvation to man. John 14: 6; Acts 4: 12; Ephesians 2:8; Romans 3: 24; Romans 5. We believe we are made righteous through Christ and as we study and apply his Word (the Bible) we can be transformed or changed to be more like Christ.
John 3: 16 Ephesians 2: 4-5.
1 Corinthians 5:21; Hebrews 4:11; Romans 12:2.
We believe that the death, burial and resurrection of Jesus are the
Jesus Christ came to heal the broken-hearted, the poor,
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oppressed and disadvantaged groups. Luke 4:18; Psalm 68:5-6; 1 John 4:16. Divine healing through Jesus is available to every believer, as healing is a part of salvation and comes from the Greek work Sozo which includes healing as well as forgiveness of sins. Healing includes physical, psychological, emotional and spiritual restoration. Luke 9:11; Matthew 9:35; Acts 10:38; Matthew 10:1. We believe in water baptism, being done by total immersion. Jesus taught and demonstrated baptism as the way for believers to identify with His death, burial and resurrection. Matthew 28:19; Romans 6:4; Matthew 3:13-17. We believe in sanctification as the ongoing process of allowing God's character to be developed in us. Romans 6:19; Galatians 5:22-25. We believe that the Baptism of the Holy Spirit is a gift from God. He helps to empower believers to serve him more effectively. Matthew 3:11; Acts 2:4.
We believe God gives all believers spiritual gifts. They are to empower and enhance our service to God's people and proof of God's existence and power to unbelievers. 1 Corinthians 12:4-11; 1 Peter 4:10. We believe in the Fivefold Ministry Gifts as outlined in the Bible which states that: ‘And He Himself gave some to be apostles, some prophets, some evangelists ,and some pastors and teachers.’ Ephesians 4:11 Jesus is coming back again to take all those who have accepted Him as their Lord and Saviour to live with Him in heaven for eternity.
Acts 1:11; 1 Thessalonians 4:13-17; Hebrews 9:28. The Bible describes hell as a real place. It is a place of eternal torment, suffering and permanent separation from God for those who die without accepting Christ. God's desire is that no one be separated from Him for eternity, which is the reason why He sent His Son, Jesus Christ, to earth. Hebrews 9:27; Revelation 20:12-15; John 3:16-18 We believe in the practice of Lord’s Supper.
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Tithes The tithe is defined as one tenth (10%) of one's income. The biblical principle of tithing is one that has come under much scrutiny, and much debate because of misinterpretation and unfortunately in some cases abuse; however any of God’s laws, which are misrepresented, does not invalidate or excuse it from being implemented. God’s laws and principles are timeless and therefore applicable for Christians today. We at RFM strongly believe in practicing these basic and ‘timeless’ biblical principles and encourage members to do the same. God’s requirement of (10%) is a reasonable percentage compared to other mandatory government laws such as income tax. We also believe that giving in this way not only demonstrates our faith but also expresses our appreciation for God and His daily provision.
As such, members are encouraged to tithe by following the biblical principle (Proverbs 3: 9; Malachi 3:10). The tithe is used for the purpose of the Church to support it in its mission. It provides spiritual and charitable services to RFM’s Community through RFM’s outreaches and Educational Training & Development. It provides the economic resources needed for maintaining the actual running costs of the Church. In addition, the tithe is used to contribute to the overall growth and development of the Church. The Bible says in 2 Corinthians 9:7, “God loves a cheerful giver.”
Tithing is not expected in instances where a member is a student and in full time education and are unemployed. Students can give an offering, as they feel led of the Holy Spirit to do so.
For convenience members can pay their tithes via standing order. Forms, for which, are available from RFM’s central administration.
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Becoming a Worker At RFM we believe that God has given everyone in the body of Christ gifts and abilities for the advancement of the His kingdom. Therefore we aim at RFM to be a place where members can discover, learn and utilise their gifts. To enable this, RFM consists of 15 various ministries and some sub ministries. Each ministry functions and reflects RFM's mission statement, in line with biblical principles. Becoming a worker in the body of Christ offers a great sense of fulfilment gained through helping others and can be most rewarding. We encourage all our members to prayfully consider becoming a worker in RFM. Joining a ministry To participate in a ministry, you will be asked to complete a ‘Ministry Participation Form’’ (encl.) Followed by a short informal meeting to discuss your availability and aims for the ministry you wish to join. You can join up to three ministries providing there are no clashes in time schedules, etc as it is understood that some ministries may run at various times throughout the year on a monthly basis. In the following section you will find our ‘ministry guide’, which outlines each available ministry to help you consider areas where you can most effectively make a contribution.
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Ministry Guide This ministry guide will help you to participate in RFM and utilise your gift(s) accordingly. You will undoubtedly have many gift(s) but the guide is intended for you to prayerfully plan to focus on the areas where you can most effectively make a contribution. When you identify the ministry area(s) and become a member of a particular ministry we appreciate your full participation and commitment in the service of the Lord. Each ministry functions and reflects RFM's mission statement, in line with biblical principles. It is envisaged that as the Holy Spirit leads the overall Fellowship, individual ministries will continually develop and grow sub ministries, if appropriate. A ministry head is appointed by RFM leadership to each ministry. Ministry heads play a pivotal role, as they fulfil their charge, in providing direction for their respective ministry.
Each ministry has a code, which can be identified for costing purposes. For example, the Sunday school Ministry is SS201. It is intended that each ministry will in the main be self-financing, and that heads and members of the individual ministry will focus on ways of generating funds to support the operations of their ministry. The list of ministries in section 7.1 shows the allocated name and code of an individual ministry at RFM.
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List of Ministries
Sunday School Ministry: SS201
Wise Women (Women's Ministry): WM202
Champions of the World (Men's Ministry): MM203
Youth Ministry: YM204
Powerhouse (Bible Study): PH205
Events Ministry: EV206
Administration: AD207
Welcome Committee: Wc208
Choral Ministry: (Choristers): CM209
Evangelism Ministry: EM210
Discipleship Ministry: DIS211
Development for Life (Education and Training): ED212
Media & Publications Ministry: MP213
Music Ministry: MU214
Care Ministry: CA215
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Ministry Outline Youth Ministry YM201
The Youth Ministry comprises three core elements: The first known as ‘Gifted’ caters for the spiritual nourishment and development of children birth-23 months and 2-4 years. The second is Children’s Church for children aged 5-12. Indeed children are encouraged to follow the Lord. Jesus himself said: “Allow the little ones to come to Me and do not forbid or restrain or hinder them, for such is the kingdom of heaven composed” (Matt 19:14 Amplified). The third is an academy referred to as Power Youth Academy (PYA) providing training and biblical education through a range of activities to teenagers aged 13-17. It is essential for teenagers to know about and accept Jesus Christ. The Academy is a place where they can understand certain fundamentals of the Bible (Proverbs 22:6). The term Power Kids is used in this ministry to express the spiritual quality that the ministry aims to develop in young people.
Wise Women (Women's Ministry) WM202
The Women's Ministry endeavours to develop wise women. Wise Women, as a befitting title for this Ministry, has been so named to reflect the character of the woman identified in Proverbs 31. Interestingly, the 'Proverbs 31' woman is not an individual woman but rather a composite of womanhood and embodies many character traits of wise women. The ministry provides opportunities for women to enhance their gifts and abilities
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through a series of activities, events etc. Champions of the World (Men's Ministry) MM203
Both men and women have been called by God to have control of the world. (See Genesis 1:28). The position and role of men are often misunderstood in contemporary society. At RFM, we desire the development of the unique position and role of men as sacrificial leaders in their own right. Men's natural 'fighting spirit', for example, is harnessed in this Ministry to defeat the opposing forces of evil. Also, the Holy Spirit restores and empowers men in this Ministry to truly become 'Champions of the World.’
Powerhouse (Bible Study) PH205
Powerhouse is a life changing experience at RFM and so aptly describes Bible Study. As the source of the Christian life is the Bible, (Jeremiah 15:16; Roman 10:17), it is imperative that all believers engage in the study of God's Word. Jesus' mandate is that we seek His kingdom and righteousness (Matthew 6:33). In the Greek language, the word 'seek' means to study, research and inquire. At Powerhouse we study, research and inquire about God through the Bible in order to apply biblical truths to our lives. Powerhouse is convened in individual homes to foster communal fellowship (Hebrews 10:25). In addition, members of RFM are encouraged to invite other believers and unbelievers to Powerhouse.
Events Ministry
EV206
The Events Ministry is responsible for organising and hosting various activities and events including special services such as Mothers'/ Fathers' Day. Team members of this Ministry have organisational
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and administrative gifts. The Events Ministry plan significant or large functions. They also support other ministries in the organisation of events etc. The Events Ministry are also in charge of the catering of food during planned activities. This Ministry plays a key role in generating income for RFM.
Administration AD207
Each ministry, at RFM, has its own administrator. In addition, there is an expanding central administration. Members with appropriate qualifications, skills, knowledge and experiences can work, if they wish in central administration. Those involved in administration are given additional training on the various tasks and functions of administration within RFM.
Welcome Committee WC208
The Welcome Committee are responsible for making RFM a pleasant, warm and welcoming experience for everyone. As such, the Committee ensures that the physical environment reflects the ethos of RFM, as an oasis of love, peace and restoration. The Welcome Committee are in charge of designating areas during worship services etc. They also provide appropriate and adequate training for their members. The ushers are a part of the Welcome Committee.
Choral Ministry (Choristers)
CM209
Individuals involved in Choral Ministry are in a unique position in that they help people to focus on God during times of worship. More importantly, many people can be saved through the ministry of song and the gospel message is often contained in
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the 'song'. Choristers are gifted in singing a whole range of gospel genres which appeals to the diverse make-up of audiences. Members of the Choral Ministry work closely with the Music Ministry.
Evangelism Ministry EM210
A fellowship or church cannot grow without members specially gifted in the area of evangelism. Whilst we are all required to 'win the lost', that is to bring people into a growing relationship with Jesus Christ, members of the Evangelism Ministry have a notable calling. As Proverbs 11:30 “…and he who is wise captures human lives for God, as a fisher of men – he gathers and receives them for eternity.” (Amplified) (see also Matthew 4:19; 1 Corinthians 9:19; James 5:20).
Discipleship Ministry D1S211
Discipleship is a continual process of growth for every believer. The word originates from the 12 disciples of Jesus Christ recorded in the Gospels. Somebody who believes and follows the teachings of Jesus can also be referred to as a disciple in the modern day sense of the word, as it means to be a follower of a teaching or leader. As part of Jesus' Commission to his disciples, known as the Great Commission, He said that we should “Go then and make disciples of all the nations…” and “teaching them to observer everything that I have commanded you.” (Matthew 28: 19 and 28 Amplified). The Discipleship Ministry entails teaching and training on the principles and fundamentals of being a Christian or 'disciple' of Jesus.
Development for Life (Education and Training) ED212
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Education and training is essential in equipping individuals to function confidently with competence as a whole person in Christ. At RFM we believe in the 'restoration' of the total person. To that end those involved in the Development for Life team have a broad remit. Educational provision is not only limited to spiritual endeavours but incorporates the vast spectrum of education and vocational training in the Global world. (See Colossians 3:22-23 and 2 Thessalonians 3:11-12 for a discussion on our attitude to work).
Media & Publications Ministry MP213
The Media & Publications Ministry manage all aspects of media production and print materials for publications including programmes for services, newsletters, magazines and all other printed texts. The Ministry is responsible for the production, recording and cataloguing of materials including CDs, DVD, podcasting, audio and video materials and other technology related areas. Each individual ministry can produce their own printed material in a format of their choice on their own respective ministry logo, providing they also use the main RFM logo. However, ministry heads or an assigned member of a particular ministry may wish to seek advice on design and print including copyright etc.
Music Ministry MU214
Music is a central feature of worship and its powerful force as a medium of worship should not be minimised. God has particularly gifted certain individuals with the ability to play a variety of musical instruments and styles, that glorifies Him and which is uplifting. The Music Ministry works in collaboration with the Choral Ministry.
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Care Ministry CA215
The Care Ministry has a wide dimension and entails caring for the spiritual, physical, emotional and psychological needs of individuals. The Ministry offers support to people from all social spheres including lone parents, nursing mother, widows, widowers etc. It also involves members visiting and ministering to the sick during 'shut-ins' and hospital visits. In line with our mission statement, the Care Ministry is in a real sense at the front line of RFM.
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Five Fold Ministry We believe in the Fivefold Ministry Gifts as outlined in Ephesians 4:11, 13 which states that: “And He Himself gave some to be apostles, some prophets, some evangelists ,and some pastors and teachers...until we all reach unity in the faith and in the knowledge of the Son of God and become mature, attaining to the whole measure of the fullness of Christ.” RFM is dedicated to identifying, training and equipping members who possess any of these Fivefold Gifts. Therefore, our Church structure incorporates this model (see page 30).
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Church Structure Board of Directors
Senior Pastor: Reverend Dr Carol Tomlin Prophetess/Pastor Tamika Pusey-Squire
Board Associates Pastoral Advisors Head of Administration Treasurer
Care Team Deacons and Deaconess
Heads of Ministry (HOM) All department heads
Ministry Workers
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Restoration Fellowship Ministries Church Office: Branston Court Branston Street Birmingham B18 6BA
www.rfmchurches.com info@rfmchurches.com
Copyright 2015 © Restoration Fellowship Ministries
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