Operation IDEA is having a dramatic impact on the Nebraska Synod’s ability to interest gifted people in serving the church. During the past four years, the Candidacy Committee has experienced a 400 percent increase in the number of people being shepherded who are exploring church vocations. More than 70 individuals are currently discerning God’s call to ministry.

In surveying rostered leaders about when God first spoke to their heart about the church, it became obvious that the Holy Spirit does not have a preferred window of invitation. For most individuals, God’s call occurs through the influence of a very special person; for others during participation in a servant event or at a mountain top experience.

Given Operation IDEA’s phenomenal success, the Nebraska Synod is committed to expanding its reach across Nebraska. The synod will continue to seek, identify and invite people with special gifts to use them in ministry. It will develop strong and effective programs for younger ages. The synod will encourage people to be “inviters,” enable servant experiences and resource mountain top events.

The goal of Operation IDEA is to enable the Candidacy Committee to consistently shepherd 100 persons who are interested in the ministries of the church. To do this, Operation IDEA will offer an on-going set of programs providing the opportunity for 1,000 people each year to seriously consider if God is speaking to their heart about ministry.

The campaign will provide a full-time person working half-time coordinating Operation IDEA and half-time coordinating youth ministry. It will also offer four years of funding for Operation IDEA initiatives.