Continuing the conversation of a few weeks ago about why we are Presbyterian, here is my monthly column for August, Being Connected. This goes out via different tubes of communication from the Office of the General Assembly in Louisville. Be sure to check out, Why are you Presbyterian? Part I, for more ways to find out how others are thinking about their Presbyterian-ness.
PC(USA) Churchwide letter - August 2009
I am having a busy summer on your behalf!
I traveled to Washington, D.C., for public policy talks. I attended Montreat Youth Conferences, as well as the New Wilmington Mission Conference, Presbyterian Women’s Churchwide Gathering, Big Tent, Alt7 Young Pastors Conference, and the Pittsburgh Seminary Summer Youth Institute. Still to come are the National Black Presbyterian Caucus, Massanetta Bible Conference, and back to the Philippines for the National Church Worker’s Convocation.
As I cross the halfway mark of my term as Moderator, my heart and spirit are energized by what I see and experience in the Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.). Yes, we are struggling in some places to find our way through difficult situations, local and national. All in all, I think the world’s struggles have reminded us that we are, first and foremost, to be the church in the world. This humbling posture has freed up many from some aspects of institutional church life that may have previously drawn our attention away from our calling to be the hearts and hands of Christ in the world. I am also uplifted by our willingness to ask tough questions of each other with the hope of discovering what God has in store for us Presbyterians.
This question of our Presbyterian identity in what many say is a post-denominational world will require us to fully understand how and why we are together as a denomination. I believe we offer amazing approaches to the faith that show to the world wonderful expressions of needed peace and healing. Our commitment to discern together the mind of Christ and the will of God stands against a world that would rather choose isolation. Our connectionalism may at times be burdensome and frustrating. However, in a world that often wants the easy way out of disagreement, when done well, our willingness and encouragement to engage one another is a great gift.
What do you think? Why are you Presbyterian? What do we hold onto as we move into the future of our denominational life together?
Join the conversation and see how others are responding.
