Dear Grace Community,
Does Grace Presbyterian prioritize faith formation and disciple-making? What do you think?
This question comes from the PCUSA Vital Congregations tool-kit. Back in September I mentioned in a sermon that the Session was going to explore this resource. As I said then, I absolutely think we are a vital congregation, and I also think we constantly need to reexamine how it is that we follow Jesus together. This resource is a good way to do this.
The Vital Congregations toolkit names seven areas of church vitality. The first is Lifelong Discipleship Formation. The Session is looking at questions like, “Do we see people grow in their faith through participation in the activities of the congregation?” and “Does our church help members apply faith to everyday life?”
One challenge is that there is no set yes or no answer because the people who make up our congregation are unique individuals, not necessarily thinking the same. Nonetheless, these are important questions for us to ask, and if we have to work too hard to answer yes in any area, we know where we need to do some work.
Again, and again you’ve heard me say that being the church in 2018 is like nothing else in Christian history. Yes, like the church in all times and places we follow Jesus, and we worship, and we care for others, but the rapidly changing attitudes and perceptions about not only church but about God in our culture are happening at a rate no one was prepared for. And in all of this our call to share God’s love continues.
By using scripture and reflection to consider areas of vitality and areas of growth we will be better prepared to answer God’s call. If you’re interested in going through this took-kit, let me know, and I’ll get a copy to you.
In Christ,
Catherine
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