Ryan, thank you so much for sharing this! It's so encouraging to see the very practices that you engage in, and how it supports both your beloved child and your own walk as God's beloved child. Your story and wisdom is such a blessing for all of us.
One thing I've found helpful in navigating differences of thought of political ideology with others is to build trust. We always of something in common with others — similar concerns about our families, places we've both travelled too, similar things we've studied or experienced. I find this always helps me recognize that people's ideas and beliefs are complex, and that we always have a some point of similarity and trust that we can work from.
Does anyone else have specific examples of how you've built connections with people who think differently than you?
Susan, thank you so much for sharing this. It's such a great reminder for all of us to take time to reflect on the wisdom of God, and to attune our own ears to listen for it.
Thank you for submitting this thoughtful post, Ron! It's so wonderful to see how Jesus has been walking alongside you throughout your life. And it's also a great reminder and encouragement to stand up and walk alongside Jesus, too.
One area of larger "Christian" culture I'm thankful for is summer camp! I remember, as a kid, going to a week of overnight camp in Wisconsin. I had such a great time; I met new friends, got super sunburnt, was able to go on horse rides, and learned about God in a fun and age-appropriate way.
Hetty, this is such a good reminder! The "togetherness" of the church is so important for us to remember and embrace. And it's also important to remember that it's only when we are together, supporting each other, building safe spaces with safe people as places of communal worship, that we can truly work together and grow in faith.
Thank you so much for sharing this, Ryan! It's so beautiful to see how God has worked in your life, and how He will continue to work through you into the future.
Posted in: Ten Ways to Practice Safe Mentoring
Thank you for sharing! This is a great resource, especially as churches and congregations explore new ways to connect with younger people.
Posted in: A Project for Parents with Prodigal Children
Ryan, thank you so much for sharing this! It's so encouraging to see the very practices that you engage in, and how it supports both your beloved child and your own walk as God's beloved child. Your story and wisdom is such a blessing for all of us.
Posted in: How Can We "Find Our Center" in Today's Divided World?
One thing I've found helpful in navigating differences of thought of political ideology with others is to build trust. We always of something in common with others — similar concerns about our families, places we've both travelled too, similar things we've studied or experienced. I find this always helps me recognize that people's ideas and beliefs are complex, and that we always have a some point of similarity and trust that we can work from.
Does anyone else have specific examples of how you've built connections with people who think differently than you?
Posted in: Gaslight Village
Susan, thank you so much for sharing this. It's such a great reminder for all of us to take time to reflect on the wisdom of God, and to attune our own ears to listen for it.
Posted in: Disability Awareness Sunday Resources
Thanks for sharing these great resources!
Posted in: On the Move with Jesus
Thank you for submitting this thoughtful post, Ron! It's so wonderful to see how Jesus has been walking alongside you throughout your life. And it's also a great reminder and encouragement to stand up and walk alongside Jesus, too.
Posted in: Are We Expecting Too Much of Church?
One area of larger "Christian" culture I'm thankful for is summer camp! I remember, as a kid, going to a week of overnight camp in Wisconsin. I had such a great time; I met new friends, got super sunburnt, was able to go on horse rides, and learned about God in a fun and age-appropriate way.
Posted in: Are We Expecting Too Much of Church?
Hetty, this is such a good reminder! The "togetherness" of the church is so important for us to remember and embrace. And it's also important to remember that it's only when we are together, supporting each other, building safe spaces with safe people as places of communal worship, that we can truly work together and grow in faith.
Posted in: How A CRC Helped Save My Life
Thank you so much for sharing this, Ryan! It's so beautiful to see how God has worked in your life, and how He will continue to work through you into the future.
Posted in: Prayer Toolbox for Congregations for Synod 2025
Thank you for sharing this resource, Jon!
Posted in: Meet Dave Den Haan, Your Consultant for Classis and Council Leadership
Thanks for the catch Bill! I've added Dave's last name to the title.
Posted in: Meet Dave Den Haan, Your Consultant for Classis and Council Leadership
Dave, thank you so much for your work! We are so, so thankful to have you working with us and supporting churches across Canada and the US.