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Scott Polling, pastor of Harvest New Beginnings in Oswego, Illinois, led a training module Wednesday on the burdens and blessings of ministering in a larger church context. Kicking off the discussion, Poling addressed some of the burdens that a large church typically faces, including lack of connectedness, high-maintenance facilities, and difficulties related to managing a large staff. On the other hand, ministering in a large-church context can also bring a host of blessings, such as greater demographic variety, increased community impact, and opportunities for specialized ministries. The ensuing discussion explored practical steps for avoiding or minimizing those burdens while leveraging the blessings to better reach the lost. No matter what the size of a church may be, Poling says, ministry should ultimately be preoccupied with reaching the lost, sharing the gospel, and facilitating growth in Christ.