2011-06-07
Keeping God’s
Company
At the Presbytery workshop and meeting on June
7, we heard voices of uncertainty and hope. The workshops in the
afternoon gathered people both lay and order of ministry, to reflect
on the future of the church in Kent Presbytery.
Stories of hope described the desires of
congregations to grow in faith, to leave a legacy or to entrust
assets to new mission. Stories of uncertainty reflected the
struggle churches faces they realized the loss of buildings and
community. Emotions of fear, despair and grief were present in the
stories of churches facing decline of members or finances. But
there was also hope in the visions described of efforts to connect
with neighbouring congregations to strengthen the church. Or is it
a matter of survival?
Much of the discussion focused on the process
of survival. There was acknowledgement of the death of
congregations and community, and the emotional loss that members
experience.
The conversations shifted to how faith
responds. Reference to “In Dying, we are Born” (Peter Bush, The
Alban Institute) reminded us that as Christians we believe the
resurrection/transformation comes through death.
We were also reminded that as the Presbytery we
are the congregation of churches of Kent Presbytery and that we have
a pastoral role within Presbytery toward the member congregations.
We were asked if we knew what our vision/core
values are. Since no one seemed to know, Judith offered to lead a
group of volunteers in a process of visioning for Presbytery.
The question that arises from this awareness of
the need for a vision is how we can offer support and leadership to
churches in this time of transition. What will the church be in the
future? How will it change? How can we assist people to find hope in
the change?
I noted that much of the discussion was about
process rather than what or in whom we believe. It seems to me that
during this time of transition we need to spend time thinking about
our core values of faith and our call as disciples of Christ to be
in God’s mission.
In this season of the Spirit, perhaps
discussion about spirituality is a starting point. What are the
basics of spirituality? This question is the subject of a chapter
by Arthur Paul Boers in his book “On Earth as in Heaven”. He
suggests that spirituality is incarnational. Prayer is walking and
interacting with God in the person of Jesus.
“The goal of Christian spirituality is to live
at all times in the presence of God, keeping God’s company and
paying attention to God. By so doing, we are conscious of our
interaction and involvement with God at all times, all times, and in
all places. Our lives are continually faced with these questions:
Will we walk with God or will we walk on our own. Will we lead
lives of selfishness and conceit? Or will we love God, love others
and love ourselves.” (Boers, p. 102)
Through your Spirit, O God, we live in
your presence.
Keep us in your company through these times of transition.
Remind us again of who we are and who we are called to be.
With trust in your Spirit, refresh us with hope
that you will lead your church into the future as faithful
disciples. Amen
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