All voices heard, all voices valuable. Easy to say, important to implement. 100 attendees, 30+ churches represented. One of our friends at Way-Making pointedly challenged the body to ensure that the body, the Board and attendees, begin to look like the folks that attend our churches. Even though many of us have had extended experience with folks other what most of the delegates look like, full representation has not been reached. And that’s an important implication of one of our values: “Communities of belonging and hospitality.” We’ve not got it all completely right yet, but we’re committed and ready to be better.
Yesterday was our final day. Half-day actually. After profound worship of our Lord and Saviour, we were sent off in groups of 3-4, with our seven values in hand, to talk them through, together, for an hour or so…to offer our thoughts on them, to internalize them, to consider their implications. “Walk-and-Talk.” What a great way to wander through both creation and our documents. Brilliant!
Then the wrap-up. Our chair, Everett Vander Horst, summarized what we did, what we learned, where we’re going, and how, with the grace and love of Jesus Christ, we can continue to serve him by serving his church. Documents will be sent, recordings will be “cleaned up” and posted, relationships will continue to be strengthened, and conversations will be held all over the country.
We thank his people in the Gardens Community Church for marvellously hosting this large gathering; we thank the hosting team for their amazing preparations. It was all outstanding.
Most of all, we thank God for energizing all the attendees with “strength for today and bright hope for tomorrow.”
It’s a new day.
Peter Bulthuis
