At the conference a bunch of us from different denomonations were discussing 'The Church' and exploring our hopes and our frustrations. I won't go into our frustrations ... but just point you to Dave's itching cartoon* which is a profound piece of theological reflection!
In looking at our hopes we were discussing the exciting things God seems to be doing with missional/emerging Church and asking, how that might impact upon the mainstream Churches(s). As ever there was some pondering about the willingness/ability for some churches to change and (thinking outloud) someone said, maybe we just have to view those Churches as a "A slightly senile (but much loved) older Relative" The imperative being to invest in mission where opportunty exists.
It was a good discussion though and a definite acknowledgement that we live in 'interesting times'
I hope and pray I have the grace to work in/from THE CHURCH whatever it's expression AND to discern what God is calling us to. From a youth ministry perspective this is a HUGE responsibilty in terms of how our lives and thinking impact young people ..... gulp, No Pressure!
*Please note this cartoon is the property of Dave Walker
good night, how true is that cartoon...
we've got great answers to questions nobody is asking...thanks for the visual.
Did you see my blog entry on this?
Phil G