The document is not an easy read. Not to say that it's not understandable-- in fact, it's quite well written and thoughtful, and speaks to many realities of an evolving mission environment. But my frank side leaves me wondering after reading the document, "And?" Perhaps this arises from my desire to see what the practical application of the framework looks like. Or perhaps it's because it's being manifested from the proverbial ivory tower of the CRC. We love that stuff-- we really do. And it's important. But if you're looking to capture the energy and excitement of an organizational transition, perhaps reduce the scope, be more succinct, and provide a clear answer to how this framework will support the future mission agency and why that's something to get excited about.
I echo Chad's sentiments. Relate this back to our Gospel call to be the hands and feet of Jesus Christ in our communities, and how we translate the NMA to 'Kingdom-Building' work.
First term, second year for myself both as a deacon and on the administrative committee. One of the most important things that I require for effective ministry is understanding who I am as a deacon and what exactly my role is in the church. One particular phrase of the charge, and perhaps a little twist is to say that we are administers of mercy. Mercy is kind of a loaded word, but perhaps that's the beauty of it-- that mercy could be a display of comfort, understanding, financial or physical help. But ultimately the bottom line is to be servants of Christ. Maybe we can call it a Micah 6:8 principle. But what we often fail to do is connect the decision to the reason. When we provide a benevolent service to a needy family, we discuss situations, numbers, and innumerable other details which block us from understanding what the decision means and why we're doing it. I think opening a meeting in prayer might lack the kind of focus that is required for deacons to get into this mindset-- you are administers of mercy.
Maybe it's as simple as opening with prayer, and then the chair looking at everyone in the eye and saying "Remember why you are here. Act justly, love mercy, and walk humbly with God." It's a prayer of itself, and we all can say amen to that while serving the purpose of returning the focus to the importance of the roles of deacons in our churches.
I will add my input on this because I do think it's an important one. I will speak with regards to my experience, and perhaps this is reflective of other young adults.
Does size matter? It certainly changes how social interaction happens, and this is applied in all types of settings. I immediately think of class sizes at college. Small is focused, communicative, personal. Large tends to be generic, less personal, and less-focused. Now, I know this doesn't apply in all situations, and context matters. So how has this played out in the church in my experience?
I have attended large congregations where I could show up and walk out without saying a word to another soul. I have similarly been to small congregations who were so focused on their conversations with their long-time friends that they neglected my presence in the room. The opposite is true too- for showing up and being welcomed by large and small congregations alike.
I have attended a church my whole life that is medium in size where the aspect of authentic relationships is key. It's great that I can show up at a place I can call home, where I can be involved, while still drawing on the gifts from many members.
The word I like to use is intentional. If you act and say with intention, you will reap the benefits of it, instead of happening upon the optimal outcome by chance. Smaller churches are provided with this flexibility where large churches cannot do this as easily (although able). It is my hope that both large and small churches can execute with intention in their ministry.
What a fantastic topic- one that should resound with multiple generations. (I'm currently a sophomore at Calvin.)
It is possible? Of course it is! My suggestion: Start early. I remember standing in the pews of church tearing up to a hymn over the organ when I was a kid. Why, you might ask? I was moved. There are just certain songs that resonate with people. I might have rarely looked at the lyrics of the song as a kid, but these are the ones that stick in my head. "Praise to the Lord, the Almighty, the King of creation. O my soul praise him for he is your health and salvation. Come, all who hear, brothers and sister draw near, join me in glad adoration." Or even Martin Luther's fantastic hymn: "A mighty fortress is our God, a bulwark never failing. Our helper he amid the flood of mortal ills prevailing. For still our ancient foe does seek to work us woe; his craft and power are great and armed with cruel hate, on earth is not his equal." This list is much longer in reality!
I find that the more contemporary songs need to prove themselves, in a sense. I agree with Josh that some songs are making their way to almost a sort of canonization. The largest factor is time. This is for all songs. The second factor is musical preference. Whether it be traditional or contemporary, it's up to the individual congregation. Some songs sound better on the organ than on guitar, vice versa. The songs that sound great on both are the ones that are typically played more often, almost out of principle.
I'm excited for the new hymnal to come out. Certain congregations with all organ music will be playing contemporary songs with that pure pipe sound. How awesome will that be! Each congregation deals with the subject differently, and certain songs will just always be in our minds, regardless of if we really try to keep them there or not. :)
Thanks for visiting our church! I dually love it when the kids sing- Nobody can be critical of a little child, and the message is crystal clear. Everyone has a big grin on their faces after they leave to go downstairs. You are always welcome to come back- We love visitors!
Posted in: Organizational Framework for a New Mission Agency
The document is not an easy read. Not to say that it's not understandable-- in fact, it's quite well written and thoughtful, and speaks to many realities of an evolving mission environment. But my frank side leaves me wondering after reading the document, "And?" Perhaps this arises from my desire to see what the practical application of the framework looks like. Or perhaps it's because it's being manifested from the proverbial ivory tower of the CRC. We love that stuff-- we really do. And it's important. But if you're looking to capture the energy and excitement of an organizational transition, perhaps reduce the scope, be more succinct, and provide a clear answer to how this framework will support the future mission agency and why that's something to get excited about.
I echo Chad's sentiments. Relate this back to our Gospel call to be the hands and feet of Jesus Christ in our communities, and how we translate the NMA to 'Kingdom-Building' work.
Posted in: What Do Deacons Need?
Hey Jack--
Perhaps I can provide my two cents.
First term, second year for myself both as a deacon and on the administrative committee. One of the most important things that I require for effective ministry is understanding who I am as a deacon and what exactly my role is in the church. One particular phrase of the charge, and perhaps a little twist is to say that we are administers of mercy. Mercy is kind of a loaded word, but perhaps that's the beauty of it-- that mercy could be a display of comfort, understanding, financial or physical help. But ultimately the bottom line is to be servants of Christ. Maybe we can call it a Micah 6:8 principle. But what we often fail to do is connect the decision to the reason. When we provide a benevolent service to a needy family, we discuss situations, numbers, and innumerable other details which block us from understanding what the decision means and why we're doing it. I think opening a meeting in prayer might lack the kind of focus that is required for deacons to get into this mindset-- you are administers of mercy.
Maybe it's as simple as opening with prayer, and then the chair looking at everyone in the eye and saying "Remember why you are here. Act justly, love mercy, and walk humbly with God." It's a prayer of itself, and we all can say amen to that while serving the purpose of returning the focus to the importance of the roles of deacons in our churches.
Posted in: Where Young Christians Should Go To Church and Why
I will add my input on this because I do think it's an important one. I will speak with regards to my experience, and perhaps this is reflective of other young adults.
Does size matter? It certainly changes how social interaction happens, and this is applied in all types of settings. I immediately think of class sizes at college. Small is focused, communicative, personal. Large tends to be generic, less personal, and less-focused. Now, I know this doesn't apply in all situations, and context matters. So how has this played out in the church in my experience?
I have attended large congregations where I could show up and walk out without saying a word to another soul. I have similarly been to small congregations who were so focused on their conversations with their long-time friends that they neglected my presence in the room. The opposite is true too- for showing up and being welcomed by large and small congregations alike.
I have attended a church my whole life that is medium in size where the aspect of authentic relationships is key. It's great that I can show up at a place I can call home, where I can be involved, while still drawing on the gifts from many members.
The word I like to use is intentional. If you act and say with intention, you will reap the benefits of it, instead of happening upon the optimal outcome by chance. Smaller churches are provided with this flexibility where large churches cannot do this as easily (although able). It is my hope that both large and small churches can execute with intention in their ministry.
Posted in: Carrying Songs Into Old Age
What a fantastic topic- one that should resound with multiple generations. (I'm currently a sophomore at Calvin.)
It is possible? Of course it is! My suggestion: Start early. I remember standing in the pews of church tearing up to a hymn over the organ when I was a kid. Why, you might ask? I was moved. There are just certain songs that resonate with people. I might have rarely looked at the lyrics of the song as a kid, but these are the ones that stick in my head. "Praise to the Lord, the Almighty, the King of creation. O my soul praise him for he is your health and salvation. Come, all who hear, brothers and sister draw near, join me in glad adoration." Or even Martin Luther's fantastic hymn: "A mighty fortress is our God, a bulwark never failing. Our helper he amid the flood of mortal ills prevailing. For still our ancient foe does seek to work us woe; his craft and power are great and armed with cruel hate, on earth is not his equal." This list is much longer in reality!
I find that the more contemporary songs need to prove themselves, in a sense. I agree with Josh that some songs are making their way to almost a sort of canonization. The largest factor is time. This is for all songs. The second factor is musical preference. Whether it be traditional or contemporary, it's up to the individual congregation. Some songs sound better on the organ than on guitar, vice versa. The songs that sound great on both are the ones that are typically played more often, almost out of principle.
I'm excited for the new hymnal to come out. Certain congregations with all organ music will be playing contemporary songs with that pure pipe sound. How awesome will that be! Each congregation deals with the subject differently, and certain songs will just always be in our minds, regardless of if we really try to keep them there or not. :)
Blessings,
Steve
Posted in: He Knows My Name
Thanks for visiting our church! I dually love it when the kids sing- Nobody can be critical of a little child, and the message is crystal clear. Everyone has a big grin on their faces after they leave to go downstairs. You are always welcome to come back- We love visitors!