Dear Readers,
I am currently in Wisconsin assisting my sister in the care of my mother who has been put on end-of-life care. I came across this article during one of my freer moments. Not only does it allow me to post a blog without much effort; it also gives our congregations and their leaders a peek into the possible future of our churches, Christian community, and whatever new old thing God seems to be doing in this time.
I wanted to forward it to you as it contained many of the elements that I am watching emerge in churches who are successfully engaging with their changing neighborhoods and community. I can think of at least thirty churches in our own presbytery that are already employing these principles in new creative ways. We are ready for this!
The article is “Re-designing Church for the 21st Century.” This is definitely worth the read and a potential discussion at Session or with a Vision Team. Their four key points are below, but I would especially emphasize the first and the last as they mirror basic starting point assumptions I am carrying into this “Vision and Mission” work that reflects my title.
- Community first, church second;
- Partnerships that matter;
- Incremental design;
- Sense of adventure and creativity
I won’t say anything more about this now except to just encourage you to read the article and ask yourself, “Is This Our 10-Year Plan?”
When I return from Wisconsin we can talk about it more! Save me a place at the table. I like my coffee black and bold and my beer bitter and cold!