Engage Milwaukee Recap

"Engage Milwaukee" was a wonderful day of fellowship with other women of Redeemer and a few others who were brought by friends. We were able to really be challenged by Natalie Bartelme regarding “Our Glorious Calling!” We looked at Matthew 28:16-20, The Great Commission. One challenge Natalie gave, which I was reminded of by a friend today, was to reach out to others and “Do it Afraid”. This is a reminder that there are times when we will be afraid to do something God calls us to do; but, sometimes we must willingly to do so no matter how fearful we may be.  Another quote that was really meaningful to me was “Your mission field is between your two feet; your mission field is wherever your feet take you!” What a great challenge as we look at the “Great Commission” to go and make disciples by baptizing and teaching them about the gospel.
At the event, Jen Wojtysiak shared of her passion for the inner city of Milwaukee. We were surprised by some of the sobering statistics of Milwaukee. For example, Milwaukee is the second most segregated city in the U.S. Milwaukee also has the highest teen pregnancy rate and the average age of a homeless person in Milwaukee is 9 years old. Milwaukee really does need workers ready and willing to go out and share the gospel. Jen also introduced us to a number of people within Milwaukee.  She told the story of Joseph, a homeless man who does not want to be forgotten. To not be forgotten is a very real fact in not just the homeless but in everyone we encounter. Jen challenged us to listen, reflect, pray and respond to God’s call!

The day was finished with prayer for the inner city and a “Milwaukee style” indoor tailgate lunch including traditional Wisconsin food (thanks to Jessica Demien) such as brats, cheese, and cream puffs. We received positive responses from everyone who attended and excited to see how God is going to be using the Women of Redeemer to reach out and impact our neighborhoods, work places, and families. Join us May 1^st to learn a little more about Milwaukee on the Bus Tour and fellowship with other believers in the inner city. Visit the church website for more information. 

by Andrea Dankert, Engage Coordinator