Evangelism has to do with proclaiming the good news of the gospel. “Evangelism is a way of life that is formed by the power of the Holy Spirit, moving through common practices in the community of faith, enabling and empowering the body of Christ to live more deeply into the love of God and the lives of Others.

As stated in the new resource’s preamble, 8 Habits of Evangelism “identifies and explores 8 habits of faith, which invite the reader on a journey into the love of God, the lives of our neighbors, and the transformation of creation.” These 8 habits are justice, radical welcome, worship, sacraments, prayer, fellowship, teaching, and generosity. For each habit, there is a lesson plan that includes an opening prayer, description of the practice, scripture references, an illustration, habits of the practice, discussion questions, and a closing prayer. Each lesson/habit, is written by a different author from the PCUSA; the different habits could be explored individually and/or in group settings.

In addition to the written resources which can be downloaded in one document or by individual habits, the PCUSA’s Office of Theology, Formation and Evangelism (part of the Presbyterian Mission Agency) will host free webinars every Wednesday from Sept. 8 through Oct. 27. Held on Zoom from 3-4 p.m. Eastern, each one will feature a different author who contributed. The authors/speakers, habits, and dates are:

  • Sept. 8: Ralph Watkins – Justice
  • Sept. 15: Shanea Leonard – Radical Welcome
  • Sept. 22: Bruce Reyes-Chow – Worship
  • Sept. 29: Aisha Brooks-Johnson – Sacraments
  • Oct. 6: Tom Bagley – Prayer
  • Oct. 13: Jose Manuel Capella-Pratts and Vilmarie Cintron-Olivieri- Fellowship
  • Oct. 20: Tod Bolsinger – Teaching
  • Oct. 27:  Leanne Van Dyk – Generosity

And Nov. 1-3, Montreat will host the REvangelism: 8 Habits of Evangelism Conference. It will take participants on a deeper journey into faith: into the lives of others, into justice, hope, and the wonder of God. Together, attendees will practice habits of evangelism that will engage them in the gospel of good news — God’s justice and reconciliation for the world. Cost is $100 per person, with scholarships to the first 200 registrants. Register here.