Transformative change must start with the Holy Spirit changing us. Only then can we be agents of change in the Church. It seems like many congregations have resisted the work of the Holy Spirit because that work WILL change us. Change is scary, but God says that we should not be afraid. I think this is an exciting time in the life of the church. God is at work and I am excited to see what God is doing and in my small way to be apart of it.
Mary Wright From a Sunday School class in a church in Key West, Florida…. CHANGE–Christ has a new gift everyday. Perhaps now is the time for a strong movement of prayer for transformation, of confession of our fear and weariness, of the need for energy for action.
So Agree! Kids want the church to be theirs, not to be observers of adults in church. We must acknowledge their gifts from God and honor them as vital to the life of the church.
I agree, too. I have heard many people refer to the young people of the church, as the “future of the church!” And yet, scripture teaches us that the little children shall lead us.
Identifying core values as well as learning to be a permission giving, supportive congregation is very important in becoming a congregation that is doing vital ministry in these days.
Also, adults need to invest their time in the life of the youth. Stop expecting the kids to come to you and participate in what you want to do. Go to the youth. Go to their games, go to their performances, take them out for lunch, listen to their stories…build relationships!
Make sure that your congregation loves and nurtures each young person that comes through your doors and embrace the diversity that they bring with them. Make them an integral part of church life and worship life.
Live – – from Champaign!
Transformative change must start with the Holy Spirit changing us. Only then can we be agents of change in the Church. It seems like many congregations have resisted the work of the Holy Spirit because that work WILL change us. Change is scary, but God says that we should not be afraid. I think this is an exciting time in the life of the church. God is at work and I am excited to see what God is doing and in my small way to be apart of it.
If there are questions from those watching the stream please post them here and Eric Corbin & I will work to have them asked during the Q&A
Mary Wright From a Sunday School class in a church in Key West, Florida…. CHANGE–Christ has a new gift everyday. Perhaps now is the time for a strong movement of prayer for transformation, of confession of our fear and weariness, of the need for energy for action.
Eric….is this going to be available for viewing after today?
Yes! It will remain at the current location, but we can share it more broadly, as well.
So Agree! Kids want the church to be theirs, not to be observers of adults in church. We must acknowledge their gifts from God and honor them as vital to the life of the church.
I agree, too. I have heard many people refer to the young people of the church, as the “future of the church!” And yet, scripture teaches us that the little children shall lead us.
Identifying core values as well as learning to be a permission giving, supportive congregation is very important in becoming a congregation that is doing vital ministry in these days.
Also, adults need to invest their time in the life of the youth. Stop expecting the kids to come to you and participate in what you want to do. Go to the youth. Go to their games, go to their performances, take them out for lunch, listen to their stories…build relationships!
I love “sanctify imagination! My favorite ordination vow names imagination..I believe it is a core value of ministry for anyone.
Thank you for sharing your comments and perspectives!
Make sure that your congregation loves and nurtures each young person that comes through your doors and embrace the diversity that they bring with them. Make them an integral part of church life and worship life.
Please share your experiences and perspectives (the good, the bad, and the ugly) with today’s livestream by email at billmclean at psei dot net
AMEN! Preach brother!(Apparently online I am Baptist.)
Go to where the people are!! I love it!! Thank you Rev. Dr. Nelson
From Mary Wright I’ve been wondering what it would a presbytery full of churches without buildings would be like.
Mary, I’ve been wondering that too!
Thank you all for joining us this afternoon and I hope you have a blessed afternoon and evening!