Roadmap to an Effective Harvest-Presented by Prophet Deji Nunayon

Roadmap to an Effective Harvest: Planting in Faith, Reaping in Abundance.

Let us not become weary in doing good, for at the proper time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up. Galatians 6:9 (NIV)

Introduction

Aim:

This study aims to help deepen our relationship and intimacy with God, Strengthen our Spiritual Growth & Personal Transformation with Evangelism and Redemption of our Faith and of those around us in order to have an effective harvest.

Goals:

Carefully prioritizing subjects mentioned in this research will help a Parish and the Church at large in gathering and managing resources before, during and after a harvest.

Depending on the size of the parish, this piece will be a guide to the harvest committee and help to set expectations.

What is a Harvest?

A Harvest is the crops that you bring in at the end of a growing season, the act of gathering crops and the result of an effort. Spiritually, the concept of Harvest aligns with the teachings about sowing seeds and reaping a harvest where good actions are seen as seeds that produce positive results. The Bible uses the word “Harvest” figuratively to refer to spiritual harvest implying that those who sow Faithfully will reap a harvest of Joy, hence, a spiritual harvest signifies a time of celebration and thanksgiving to God when members reflect on their spiritual growth and good deeds (fruits) throughout the year.

Metaphorically, the Celestial Church of Christ Harvest signifies the importance of reaching out to those who are not yet part of the church.

Focus of a Harvest:

Harvest ultimately in the Celestial Church of Christ focuses on expressing gratitude to God for blessings received throughout the year, recommitment to the faith, true worship of an entire individual household and emphasizing the spiritual aspect of gathering souls and bringing new members into the church.

Timeline of a Harvest in the Celestial Church of Christ

“… he who fails to plan plans to fail” by Benjamin Franklin.

This quote is a reminder that planning is an important part of achieving a goal — without a plan, it’s harder to know what steps to take and how to measure progress. The timeline of a proper harvest should start with the following:

1. 1. Choosing a Theme for the harvest: because harvest signifies a time of gathering the fruits of one’s spiritual labor it is meaningful to adopt a theme relating to spiritual reaping, gathering and the idea of God’s abundant blessings, to be chosen primarily by the Shepherd of the Parish or a senior Shepherd and as led by the spirit. This theme should not be ambiguous (it has to be meaningful as possible with the right choice of words).
   2. The Date of Harvest: this timeframe must be carefully selected to align with the Regions’ calendar in order to ensure that the date does not clash with another parish’s selected date or any other events within the locality of the Parish and the Region. Depending on the financial capacity of the parish and not to be wasteful, this piece submits to start on a Friday and end on Sunday.
   3. Harvest Committee Selection: the book of 2″ Corinthians 9:6-7 emphasizes you reap in the measure you give and most importantly God loves people who gives cheerfully and willingly, not out of obligation. This committee should consist of volunteers who are members of the parish and willing to work together as a team to make the harvest a success.
      • This committee is expected to be selected within 2months after the conclusion of the last harvest for proper planning to begin.
      • These volunteers will immediately start working with the shepherd to understand their responsibilities and what is expected of them.
      • To achieve an effective harvest, this committee is expected to oversee the Juvenile Harvest and Adult Harvest.
      • It is appropriate that this committee have a Chairman/Chairperson or a Head who will coordinate the team and for a regular vigil towards the harvest.

   4. Invitation: as soon as the above has been met, the committee can proceed to send out invite to their guests.

5. Thanksgiving: The Bible strongly emphasizes on thanksgiving, it is somewhat a command and an honor to God rather than optional for every living soul to give thanks to God and we can reference to this in Psalms 100:4-5, Deuteronomy 8:10, 1st Chronicles 16:34, 1st Thessalonians 5:18, Philippians 4:6, Colossians 3:15-17 and so on and so forth. So, each parish on a separate Sunday they choose (preferably Sunday after the Harvest event) needs to offer thanks to God after their Adult Harvest rejoicing and then the Region and Diocese as well and this in a way will put us in accordance with the word of God.

As the world is rapidly evolving it is pertinent that the church catches up with things, hence, Corporate Social responsibilities cannot be over emphasized for the purpose of harvest and other events like convention, workshops, seminar … According to the book of Proverbs 19:17 the Bible encourages kindness to the poor, promising that God will reward such generosity and this lesson goes to everybody–

on earth, therefore, actively partnering and collaborating with Local Organizations, NGOs, Community Groups and Government Agencies to amplify impact has become necessary. Engaging our members to voluntarily participate in community social responsibilities will entice these corporate bodies to support us and the impact of these relationships is enormous as below:

1. 1. It is going to well improve the livelihoods of community members by enhancing their economic and social well-being, increased access

1. 1. Increased Access to Healthcare as reaching out to corporate bodies for healthcare outreach programs will become beneficial to the community and the church at large

1. 1. Corporate organizations empowering the church to support Educational Programs, Vocational Trainings will support some individuals and families for sustainability and this effort can enhance the church’s reputation demonstrating its commitment to social responsibility and community development.

Hospitality & Logistics Plan

A well-organized hospitality and logistics plan is essential to creating a welcoming and seamless Harvest Anniversary celebration. Proper planning ensures that guests feel valued, transportation and accommodations run smoothly, and meals are served efficiently. It also helps maintain order, prevents last-minute issues, and enhances the overall experience for everyone attending. A thoughtful and structured approach to hospitality reflects the spirit of celebration and gratitude that defines the Harvest Anniversary.

By following these steps, the hospitality and logistics of the Harvest Anniversary will be well-organized, ensuring a seamless and enjoyable celebration for all attendees.

A. Guest List  

• Determine Special Invitees and draft letters
• Create general invitation for broad distribution 
• Send invitation letters to guests.
• Post invitation on social media and distribute through other communication channels(WhatsApp, personal messages, mail, etc.)

B. Guest Correspondence

• Call invited guests to confirm their attendance.
• Determine their mode of arrival and estimated arrival time.
• Collect flight details for those traveling by plane.

C. Accommodation Arrangements

• Decide whether the church will sponsor hotel accommodations (optional, based on schedule and budget).
• Secure hotel bookings for sponsored guests.
• Map out hotel assignments based on arrival and departure schedules.
• If providing hotel stays, coordinate meal arrangements for guests at their hotels.

D. Transportation Coordination

• Establish a transportation team to manage guest pickups and drop-offs.
• Assign drivers or arrange for shuttle services.
• Ensure smooth transit between hotels, the church, and event locations.
• E. Food & Catering Planning

• Plan meals for each event/program throughout the Harvest celebration.
• Ensure portions are reasonable but ample, as it is a celebration.
• Organize a serving team to distribute food efficiently at each event.

 F. Guest Reception & Hospitality

• Assign greeters to welcome guests at each program and event.
• Ensure all guests are made comfortable upon arrival.

G. Event Clean-up & Maintenance

•  Designate a team to clean up after each event.
•  Ensure the venue is maintained in order for consecutive programs.

Budgeting for a Debt-Free Harvest Anniversary

A successful Harvest Anniversary should be a time of celebration, not financial strain. Good budgeting ensures that the event honors God while remaining financially responsible. Here’s how to plan wisely and avoid debt:

1. Elect a Treasurer and Financial Secretary — they will oversee the funding for the harvest and ensure proper record keeping.
2. Set a Reasonable Harvest Levy — Establish a contribution amount that church members can give towards the event’s costs without causing financial hardship. This ensures shared responsibility without undue pressure.
3. Start with the Essentials -Identify the non-negotiable expenses: venue, food, decorations, guest honorariums, and any appreciation gifts. These must fit within your budget before considering extras.
4. Set a Realistic Budget — Determine available resources before making commitments. If the church lacks the funds, consider scaling down rather than going into debt. A Harvest should be a blessing, not a burden.
5. Plan for Guest Ministers & Appreciation — If inviting guest speakers, allocate funds for their honorarium, travel, and hospitality. Factor in appreciation gifts within your set budget.
6. Manage Expectations— Be clear on attendance numbers and financial contributions from members. Overspending to accommodate unrealistic expectations can lead to financial strain.
7. Make Practical Cost Adjustments — Instead of having four food items, consider serving two to reduce costs. Simplifying decorations or cutting back on non-essential expenses can also help keep the event within budget.
8. Encourage Non-Monetary Donations — Church members can contribute in meaningful ways beyond money. Donations of food, decorations, volunteer time, and other resources can significantly reduce overall costs.
9. Track & Adjust -Regularly review spending to stay within budget. If costs exceed expectations, make adjustments before incurring debt.
10. Give with Wisdom — A Harvest Anniversary is about gratitude and stewardship. If resources are limited, remember that celebrating within your means is just as meaningful.