These “resource letters” include a reflection on each topic and highlight some of the best available resources. These collections are meant for downloading and are shared regularly with pastors and leaders throughout this synod and across the church.
» Download the resource sheet: Being Church in the 21st Century (download .pdf file)
Being Church in the 21st Century: Themes from the Emerging Church
This collection of resources attempts to provide an entry into the amoeba-like movement of the emerging church. It includes past and present voices that help us wrestle with ongoing change and cultural shifts. Saint Augustine reminds us to say amen! to what we are, the Body of Christ in the world. And so as baptized people of God, we receive Christ’s body and blood at the communion table boldly responding, Amen! May we continue to look for ever more meaningful ways to be church–sharing, living, and proclaiming the radical news of Jesus Christ and God’s overwhelming love and mercy.
Featured Resources:
- A Generous Orthodoxy, The Secret Message of Jesus: Uncovering the Truth that Could Change Everything by Brian McLaren
- A New Kind of Christian by Brian McLaren
- Continue reading…
» Download the resource sheet: Global Mission (download pdf file)
The following sample of resources is about the family of God around the world. Understanding ourselves as part of a global neighborhood is part of our calling as God’s people. These resources are about being the face of Christ beyond our own communities and culture. They also are about recognizing Christ in new ways and new places.
Featured Resources:
- Woman, Stand Tall: Women for Christ Movement (VT1948)
- Mission Explorers Kit (VT1924)
- Continue reading…
» Download the resource sheet: Sabbath Keeping; Sabbatical Taking (download .pdf file)
In our culture where time has become a commodity and remembering who we are is sometimes a challenge, sabbath keeping may be more important than ever. What follows here can be a catalyst for inviting the church to slow down, to remember and reclaim sabbath time. Additionally, it’s an invitation to pastoral renewal and replenishment in the form of sabbatical leave. I hope you find it helpful!
Featured Resources:
- Receiving the Day Christian Practices for Opening the Gift of Time by Dorothy Bass (B2398)
- Under the Tree of Life by Gail Ramshaw (B2304)
- Continue reading…