My economics-trained wife has told me before about an important business idea- The “barriers to entry” concept, which relates to companies seeking new consumers or venues to sell. Here’s how it works (I think, but ask Tabitha for a full report…). When someone wants to become, say, an electrician or financial planner, it’s not so easy as printing a personal business card. Electricians need training and certification. Financial planners go through licensing. These are “barriers to entry”, basic requirements for participating in a particular market. They’re a mix of government regulations, educational expectations, funding sources and more. And the barriers change depending on the industry. Still, they exist, and impact the economy.
This came to mind when I read a recent Pew poll about Americans’ perspectives on religion. Unsurprisingly, it shows that young adults (18-33) are our country’s least religious group. Partly, that’s a fact of youth. Partly, it’s long-term trends away from organized religion. But what caught my attention were current reasons young adults give for avoiding religion. Fully one-third said it was because they perceived religious groups as hostile to gays and lesbians. I’ve heard general impressions before that younger Americans are more open to the LGBT community than older Americans. But data describing this notion as their reason to not attend church was news to me. Further, the survey found that 70% of American YAs agree that religious groups are “alienating young adults by being too judgmental on gay and lesbian issues.”
We’ve discussed these issues before. Several of you have expressed anxiety about them, even. And in general, churches like ours frequently avoid the topic. There’s concern that if we talk about it, and especially if we take a further step of advertising we’re open and affirming, we risk anger, division, distraction from ‘bigger issues,’ even splitting the church. At the same time, many of you have expressed anxiety over our demographics. It’s true for lots of churches, that worshipping populations trend older than most prefer. “How can we appeal to young adults?” People wonder. “New Worship styles? Mission activities?” That’s part of the mix, surely, but this survey signaled something else. Perhaps.
Recall that economic concept of “barriers to entry.” The metaphor may be imprecise. Still, if seven-in-ten young adults perceive churches as too judgmental, plus one-in-three claims they avoid church in large part because of “negative treatment” toward or “teaching” about gays and lesbians, it means this issue matters to them. It’s a potentially serious barrier to entry. Many YAs won’t even consider attending our worship, serving with us or joining until we’ve convinced them we’re “not that kind of Christian.” Of course, we still may not be their preferred church, just like not every electrician proves successful. But if we can’t even get them in the door because of preconceived notions, we have no opportunity to ‘make a sale.’
Which isn’t to say we need a rainbow flag on our church sign tomorrow. It’s a complicated conversation for most churches, PCCC included, given our history and diverse beliefs. But this survey suggests that churches may also incur costs by not discussing the topic or avoiding taking a stand. Young adults will simply look somewhere else. After all, young adult Americans express as much spiritual longing as their elders do. They too want close, intimate community that joyfully serves God and neighbors in need, and provides unconditional hospitality. In our suburb especially, there aren’t many- if any- churches who embrace freedom of belief, like we do, while clearly expressing they’re welcoming to gays and lesbians.
Thus, a question- Would it be strategically valuable to publicize “we’re different”? Not perfect, of course, but trying to be open. It wouldn’t provide potential young visitors with everything they want, but might reduce this barrier to entry. If you find that interesting, let me know. I’d be glad to facilitate a conversation. And if you disagree, that’s fine. We’re all different, and God loves that. But we should all want our church to think about how we invite more people into our doors and to the Table. Old, young, and all ages between. That’s what church is for, after all. Amen?
Grace and Peace,
Shane
Read more!
Wednesday, March 5, 2014
Tuesday, February 25, 2014
Pause button…
When radical Protestants took over the English government in the mid-17th century, they abolished that most unbiblical, corrupting of days…Christmas. “Excuse me?!” might you respond, “Who were these crazy, uncaring heathens?!” “Puritans,” I’d answer, “Spiritually related to many of America’s most prominent founders. They tried to nix it here too.” But that’s a different story.
The point is, they made Christmas illegal, considering it a pagan festival poorly wrapped in Christian paper, without precedent in Holy Scripture. Easter was fine. Pentecost too. But Christmas and many other holy-days then important to the Catholic Church- feasts for patron saints, martyrs, etc.- were exactly the “not found in the Bible” stuff these radical Protestants protested. The notion likely sounds ludicrous to modern folk. Many Protestants now deem Christmas the #2 day in spiritual import. Some even rage annually against what they dub a secular “War on Christmas.” But such is history and life; what has been or will be can still surprise us. For instance- that our religious ancestors worried that Christmas endangered our souls.
Perhaps you knew that already. If not, you’re likely familiar with another holdover from that early Protestant protesting. Alongside pushing St. Nick back up the chimney, they attacked the season of Lent. I grew up in the Episcopal Church, which retains respect for this season (in case you forgot, Lent is forty days of discipline and introspection that for centuries Christians have used to prepare for Easter). However, when I left that communion, I found many Protestants didn’t even know the term. Or if they did, they called it “too Catholic” or “too dreary” or, simply, “weird.” Disciples of Christ long shared such skepticism. We, after all, began our movement loudly proclaiming, “Where scripture speaks, we speak. Where it’s silent, we’re silent.” And our early leaders didn’t find within the New Testament any evidence for this Lent thing.
Thus it was that for much Disciples history, churches like ours passionately avoided Lent. Over the past several decades, though, that’s changed (to some long-time Disciples’ dismay…). Essentially, we began spending more time with denominations who valued the season and its traditions. Accepting that maybe they’ve learned something we could learn too, many Disciples churches now observe Lent. Usually, that occurs with less…shall I say…strictness than our high church-influenced friends. Most Disciples don’t fast every Lenten Friday, and certainly don’t forgo beef. Many skip Good Friday or Ash Wednesday services- although you shouldn’t skip the good Ash Wednesday worship we’ve got planned for March 5th (6:15pm)! And the whole “giving up something for Lent” tradition is broadly considered optional (although it’s useful, and if you’re interested, here are two ideas- 1) Go on a carbon fast, i.e. lessen the amount of carbon your daily activities pump into our atmosphere or 2) “Take something up” for Lent, like a new daily devotional or prayer practice, seeking God’s guidance for our church or the poor in our community every night before bed). Still, we’ve come to recognize something insightful about human souls and spiritual needs that could be met by pushing the pause button on normal activities, focusing for a season on deepening our devotion.
That, after all, is one goal not simply of Lent or Advent or other church seasons, but even- if properly observed- all holy-days too. Our souls are not robots. Our needs and desires go through peaks and valleys, storms and lulls. And not because we’re failing or sinful; it’s as it should be. Variety is the spice of life! I mean, the regularity of Sunday worship does train our hearts to be more attentive to God’s will and serving our neighbors. But that can also get repetitive, even dull, if we don’t mix it up with an occasional festival or time of renewal. Our radical Protestant ancestors forgot that, in their otherwise righteous quest to purge religion of greed and corrupt power. Celebrating seasons, setting time apart for special attention is good for us. So with respect for their well-intentioned fervor, I’ll continue to look forward to next Christmas, and enjoy observing Lent with you these next forty days. May we gladly see Jesus anew, again. Read more!
The point is, they made Christmas illegal, considering it a pagan festival poorly wrapped in Christian paper, without precedent in Holy Scripture. Easter was fine. Pentecost too. But Christmas and many other holy-days then important to the Catholic Church- feasts for patron saints, martyrs, etc.- were exactly the “not found in the Bible” stuff these radical Protestants protested. The notion likely sounds ludicrous to modern folk. Many Protestants now deem Christmas the #2 day in spiritual import. Some even rage annually against what they dub a secular “War on Christmas.” But such is history and life; what has been or will be can still surprise us. For instance- that our religious ancestors worried that Christmas endangered our souls.
Perhaps you knew that already. If not, you’re likely familiar with another holdover from that early Protestant protesting. Alongside pushing St. Nick back up the chimney, they attacked the season of Lent. I grew up in the Episcopal Church, which retains respect for this season (in case you forgot, Lent is forty days of discipline and introspection that for centuries Christians have used to prepare for Easter). However, when I left that communion, I found many Protestants didn’t even know the term. Or if they did, they called it “too Catholic” or “too dreary” or, simply, “weird.” Disciples of Christ long shared such skepticism. We, after all, began our movement loudly proclaiming, “Where scripture speaks, we speak. Where it’s silent, we’re silent.” And our early leaders didn’t find within the New Testament any evidence for this Lent thing.
Thus it was that for much Disciples history, churches like ours passionately avoided Lent. Over the past several decades, though, that’s changed (to some long-time Disciples’ dismay…). Essentially, we began spending more time with denominations who valued the season and its traditions. Accepting that maybe they’ve learned something we could learn too, many Disciples churches now observe Lent. Usually, that occurs with less…shall I say…strictness than our high church-influenced friends. Most Disciples don’t fast every Lenten Friday, and certainly don’t forgo beef. Many skip Good Friday or Ash Wednesday services- although you shouldn’t skip the good Ash Wednesday worship we’ve got planned for March 5th (6:15pm)! And the whole “giving up something for Lent” tradition is broadly considered optional (although it’s useful, and if you’re interested, here are two ideas- 1) Go on a carbon fast, i.e. lessen the amount of carbon your daily activities pump into our atmosphere or 2) “Take something up” for Lent, like a new daily devotional or prayer practice, seeking God’s guidance for our church or the poor in our community every night before bed). Still, we’ve come to recognize something insightful about human souls and spiritual needs that could be met by pushing the pause button on normal activities, focusing for a season on deepening our devotion.
That, after all, is one goal not simply of Lent or Advent or other church seasons, but even- if properly observed- all holy-days too. Our souls are not robots. Our needs and desires go through peaks and valleys, storms and lulls. And not because we’re failing or sinful; it’s as it should be. Variety is the spice of life! I mean, the regularity of Sunday worship does train our hearts to be more attentive to God’s will and serving our neighbors. But that can also get repetitive, even dull, if we don’t mix it up with an occasional festival or time of renewal. Our radical Protestant ancestors forgot that, in their otherwise righteous quest to purge religion of greed and corrupt power. Celebrating seasons, setting time apart for special attention is good for us. So with respect for their well-intentioned fervor, I’ll continue to look forward to next Christmas, and enjoy observing Lent with you these next forty days. May we gladly see Jesus anew, again. Read more!
Wednesday, February 19, 2014
Sharing food…
I can’t think of any more Christian act than sharing food with others. Are they hungry? Offer some dinner, and a place to rest. Are they young adults away from home during the holidays? Invite them to your family’s celebrations. Is she returning from the hospital after surgery, or he’s laid low with a winter flu? Bring over a hotdish or pot of soup. That’s what Christians do.
During high school, my sister and I decided to find a different church. My parents saw this as us taking ownership of our spiritual journey, so blessed the endeavor. Thus, we went “church shopping” (a terrible term, amen?!) for the first time in our lives. And the place that made the strongest impression- indeed, where we worshipped for several years- was Metro Community Church, a Church of Christ-affiliated congregation in east Denver. One important reason for that was the singing, an important consideration for this long-time choir boy. The congregation didn’t simply mouth the hymns’ words, willing the sermon to start sooner. Enthusiastically, these worshippers used song to praise God loudly and proudly. It was quite attractive!
But I think the main reason we chose that church had to do with food. Not only did they celebrate Communion every Sunday, important to my soul. After service, a group of students, young adults and less young adults invited my sister and me to lunch. “Hey,” they said, “You’re new here. Thanks for joining us in worship! We’re going to eat now; we’d love it if you joined us.” Being an introvert, I was a little nervous, but they truly seemed interested to include me in their spiritual community. So we said yes, and that turned into a pattern. Not every Sunday, but often we’d join other Christian friends for after-church food, always remembering to invite visitors if we’d been blessed with some that day. Other churches I’ve attended had similar practices because, well, Christians share food. It’s what we do. It’s how Jesus taught us to live together.
Every March, the Greater Minneapolis Council of Churches (on whose Board I sit and now chair the Strategic Planning Committee) sponsors the largest annual food drive throughout Minnesota. It’s called the Minnesota Foodshare, and every year, partner churches, non-profits, businesses and more raise over half of the food and funds that Minnesota’s 300+ foodshelves distribute to hungry families. Last year, the effort provided 13 million pounds and dollars of food. And the best part is that every dollar donated went entirely to local foodshelves. That’s different than other food drive organizations, Second Harvest for instance, who certainly do good work, but have higher overhead costs or don’t give all donated funds directly to food shelves. The Foodshare, by contrast, either encourages people to give to their closest food distribution center- like IOCP or PRISM- or to the Foodshare directly, whose Food Fund distributes 100% of its proceeds to statewide shelves and pantries. Again, over half of our state’s charitable food assistance comes from this March campaign, which doesn’t solve the problem of hunger. But imagine the increased struggles if Foodshare didn’t exist?
For the past couple years, our local foodshelf- IOCP- has sponsored a March food drive they call Donation Creation, encouraging churches, schools and businesses to gather food and funds for hunger assistance. They’ve procured this year $100,000 in matching grants from Mosaic Inc. and the local Lions Club, $1 matched for every pound of food or dollar donated, a nice enticement indeed! Plus, they encourage friendly competition- every partner can build a sculpture with their donations. Two years ago, ours was chosen as the best among participating churches!
I’m hoping this March, we’ll win again. And I hope you’re with me! Our plan’s to bring foodshelf donations to church from now until mid-March, then we’ll construct whatever lovely sculpture strikes our creative fancy. Plus, we’ll do so in our sanctuary, beautifying worship with food for hungry people. If you’d prefer to give money, that’s welcome too, since one dollar donated can purchase an additional 9 pounds of food. Sounds like fun, right?! Sounds, as well, like exactly what Christians do. Feed the hungry. Celebrate compassion. Share food.
Grace and Peace,
Shane Read more!
During high school, my sister and I decided to find a different church. My parents saw this as us taking ownership of our spiritual journey, so blessed the endeavor. Thus, we went “church shopping” (a terrible term, amen?!) for the first time in our lives. And the place that made the strongest impression- indeed, where we worshipped for several years- was Metro Community Church, a Church of Christ-affiliated congregation in east Denver. One important reason for that was the singing, an important consideration for this long-time choir boy. The congregation didn’t simply mouth the hymns’ words, willing the sermon to start sooner. Enthusiastically, these worshippers used song to praise God loudly and proudly. It was quite attractive!
But I think the main reason we chose that church had to do with food. Not only did they celebrate Communion every Sunday, important to my soul. After service, a group of students, young adults and less young adults invited my sister and me to lunch. “Hey,” they said, “You’re new here. Thanks for joining us in worship! We’re going to eat now; we’d love it if you joined us.” Being an introvert, I was a little nervous, but they truly seemed interested to include me in their spiritual community. So we said yes, and that turned into a pattern. Not every Sunday, but often we’d join other Christian friends for after-church food, always remembering to invite visitors if we’d been blessed with some that day. Other churches I’ve attended had similar practices because, well, Christians share food. It’s what we do. It’s how Jesus taught us to live together.
Every March, the Greater Minneapolis Council of Churches (on whose Board I sit and now chair the Strategic Planning Committee) sponsors the largest annual food drive throughout Minnesota. It’s called the Minnesota Foodshare, and every year, partner churches, non-profits, businesses and more raise over half of the food and funds that Minnesota’s 300+ foodshelves distribute to hungry families. Last year, the effort provided 13 million pounds and dollars of food. And the best part is that every dollar donated went entirely to local foodshelves. That’s different than other food drive organizations, Second Harvest for instance, who certainly do good work, but have higher overhead costs or don’t give all donated funds directly to food shelves. The Foodshare, by contrast, either encourages people to give to their closest food distribution center- like IOCP or PRISM- or to the Foodshare directly, whose Food Fund distributes 100% of its proceeds to statewide shelves and pantries. Again, over half of our state’s charitable food assistance comes from this March campaign, which doesn’t solve the problem of hunger. But imagine the increased struggles if Foodshare didn’t exist?
For the past couple years, our local foodshelf- IOCP- has sponsored a March food drive they call Donation Creation, encouraging churches, schools and businesses to gather food and funds for hunger assistance. They’ve procured this year $100,000 in matching grants from Mosaic Inc. and the local Lions Club, $1 matched for every pound of food or dollar donated, a nice enticement indeed! Plus, they encourage friendly competition- every partner can build a sculpture with their donations. Two years ago, ours was chosen as the best among participating churches!
I’m hoping this March, we’ll win again. And I hope you’re with me! Our plan’s to bring foodshelf donations to church from now until mid-March, then we’ll construct whatever lovely sculpture strikes our creative fancy. Plus, we’ll do so in our sanctuary, beautifying worship with food for hungry people. If you’d prefer to give money, that’s welcome too, since one dollar donated can purchase an additional 9 pounds of food. Sounds like fun, right?! Sounds, as well, like exactly what Christians do. Feed the hungry. Celebrate compassion. Share food.
Grace and Peace,
Shane Read more!
Wednesday, February 12, 2014
From Brokenness to Community…
The summer between my junior and senior years of college, I worked for a Presbyterian church in San Antonio. It was my first “official” foray into the wonderful world of professional ministry. The church hired me as a summer intern for their high school ministry program. So my days were spent hanging out with youth group members, teaching bible studies, and pursuing activities glorious and goofy. And at certain times during the season, we took our young people on fun, enriching, Jesus-themed adventures. There was a trip to the Texas coast, to retreat with other high school groups. We splashed at a nearby waterpark. We served several communities in need. But the most significant trip was the week we traveled to a camp outside of Philadelphia.
You may be thinking, “Well, of course, camp, that’s obvious for summer youth group activities.” Except, this time, our students weren’t the camp participants; they were workers. You see, the camp was run by a local organization that focused on people with disabilities, and they set no “limit” on the severity of someone’s disability for inclusion in their community. So they’d send buses to local group homes or wherever these disabled folk lived, transport them to a facility in nearby hills, and run programming throughout the week. Some of the campers were high-functioning adults or youth, who could move and speak with decent levels of success. Other campers were wheelchair confined, unable to talk, needing helpers to eat, sleep and use the restroom. Our youth group didn’t directly take care of the campers; the organization ensured trained assistants for those essential functions. Rather, we helped run games and play in the pool, or provided labor for camp rebuilding projects. It was one part construction project, one part relationship building, another gigantic heaping of education about the needs of disabled people, and every part full of grace.
I can’t describe how profoundly this week moved me, as I both met the campers and guided my youth. I’d never interacted over an extended period with people enduring such hardships, such need. So to prepare me for the, well, shock, my boss that summer gave me a book. It was small, about 50 pages, basically a publication of two lectures given several years ago to students at Harvard Divinity School by a man named Jean Vanier. Turns out, Rev. Dr. Vanier is a modern spiritual guru, renowned throughout the world, particularly for his uniquely powerful ministry with and spiritual teaching about people living with disability. I knew none of that when I read his book; it was simply a work requirement. Yet in its pages, and through his simple, accessible words, I discovered a vision of Christian faith and Christian community that challenged me, even changed me.
Essentially, his point was this- We all suffer brokenness, of various kinds. For some, that spiritual, psychological or physical struggle is obvious for all to see. For others, it’s hard to define and hidden, often even from ourselves. Yet it’s there, and it makes a difference, contributes to isolation, loneliness and suffering. The goal of Gospel, however, is to lead us beyond our brokenness to community with others and God. Perhaps that sounds obvious, but it struck me like a hammer, because the way Vanier suggested that worked was different than I normally expect. He said grace uses our brokenness, embraces it, builds upon it, rather than denies it, avoids it or presumes it can all be healed.
Thus, the title of his book is From Brokenness to Community, and it’s remained atop my spiritual favorites since. And as I pondered recently what Plymouth Creek should do during Lent 2014, this seemed a worthy theme. So it’ll guide worship and sermons, and as has become typical, every Wednesday during Lent, I’ll lead a book discussion at church. Staring March 12, from 6-7 PM (and there’ll be food…), we’ll engage this man’s profound spirituality. Expect to learn about the needs of disabled people, Vanier’s unique journey in faith, and- hopefully- your own needs and hurts and God’s amazing ability to bring us together.
Grace and Peace,
Shane
Read more!
You may be thinking, “Well, of course, camp, that’s obvious for summer youth group activities.” Except, this time, our students weren’t the camp participants; they were workers. You see, the camp was run by a local organization that focused on people with disabilities, and they set no “limit” on the severity of someone’s disability for inclusion in their community. So they’d send buses to local group homes or wherever these disabled folk lived, transport them to a facility in nearby hills, and run programming throughout the week. Some of the campers were high-functioning adults or youth, who could move and speak with decent levels of success. Other campers were wheelchair confined, unable to talk, needing helpers to eat, sleep and use the restroom. Our youth group didn’t directly take care of the campers; the organization ensured trained assistants for those essential functions. Rather, we helped run games and play in the pool, or provided labor for camp rebuilding projects. It was one part construction project, one part relationship building, another gigantic heaping of education about the needs of disabled people, and every part full of grace.
I can’t describe how profoundly this week moved me, as I both met the campers and guided my youth. I’d never interacted over an extended period with people enduring such hardships, such need. So to prepare me for the, well, shock, my boss that summer gave me a book. It was small, about 50 pages, basically a publication of two lectures given several years ago to students at Harvard Divinity School by a man named Jean Vanier. Turns out, Rev. Dr. Vanier is a modern spiritual guru, renowned throughout the world, particularly for his uniquely powerful ministry with and spiritual teaching about people living with disability. I knew none of that when I read his book; it was simply a work requirement. Yet in its pages, and through his simple, accessible words, I discovered a vision of Christian faith and Christian community that challenged me, even changed me.
Essentially, his point was this- We all suffer brokenness, of various kinds. For some, that spiritual, psychological or physical struggle is obvious for all to see. For others, it’s hard to define and hidden, often even from ourselves. Yet it’s there, and it makes a difference, contributes to isolation, loneliness and suffering. The goal of Gospel, however, is to lead us beyond our brokenness to community with others and God. Perhaps that sounds obvious, but it struck me like a hammer, because the way Vanier suggested that worked was different than I normally expect. He said grace uses our brokenness, embraces it, builds upon it, rather than denies it, avoids it or presumes it can all be healed.
Thus, the title of his book is From Brokenness to Community, and it’s remained atop my spiritual favorites since. And as I pondered recently what Plymouth Creek should do during Lent 2014, this seemed a worthy theme. So it’ll guide worship and sermons, and as has become typical, every Wednesday during Lent, I’ll lead a book discussion at church. Staring March 12, from 6-7 PM (and there’ll be food…), we’ll engage this man’s profound spirituality. Expect to learn about the needs of disabled people, Vanier’s unique journey in faith, and- hopefully- your own needs and hurts and God’s amazing ability to bring us together.
Grace and Peace,
Shane
Read more!
Wednesday, February 5, 2014
Servant Leading…
A cliché common to our denomination is that we Disciples struggle saying what we believe, because we don’t believe in much. There’s something to that, but don’t push it too far. We have numerous and powerful shared convictions. We just don’t list doctrines, dogmas, creeds or “beliefs” like other communions do.
For instance, say someone asks, “What do Disciples believe in?” Bad, but frequent, answer? “Uh…Jesus…” Better answer? “I’m glad you asked! Truth is, we disagree about much. But that’s fine, because our most important- let’s call it conviction- is that everyone has freedom to believe differently. We think God is so grand, and humans so interesting, we can all claim various things about God and Jesus, and still all be faithful. After all, no one knows the full truth about God, right?” In other words, freedom is more important to Disciples than conformity. It makes for more diverse beliefs, but isn’t a rainbow more beautiful than plain white paper?
(By the way, should that conversation ever come up, end it this way, “Why not celebrate that awesome idea with us?! Services begin at 10. We can go to lunch after…”)
Anyway, I bring this up to highlight another core Disciples’ conviction. Indeed, this one’s my favorite, and is shared by most Protestants. It’s a belief in the “priesthood of all believers,” i.e. all Christians have the capacity to act as “priests.” Which begs the question- What’s a priest? And how do I act as one? Maybe you’re imagining a man in a black shirt and collar, seated in a confessional booth. That’s one way our Catholic brothers (but not sisters, alas) put ideas about priesthood into practice.
But the idea goes deeper. Reconsider that confessional practice- a priest acts as an intermediary between God and another person; being God’s ears, speaking God’s words of grace, standing in for God. When performed with skill and compassion, Catholic confession can prove a profound gift. Yet that basic behavior- standing in God’s place for another, sharing God’s special grace with a neighbor- transcends the confessional experience, and resides the core of “priesthood.” And it needs to happen, because God’s so mysteriously vast, we little humans need help approaching God. Without another to act our ‘priest’ sometimes, we feel disconnected, unredeemed.
One main difference between us and Catholics, however, is who qualifies as priest. Put simply, Disciples don’t think it takes ordination for a person to stand in fully for God. I may know more about the Bible than you. I’d guess I’ve preached more sermons. But I’m no more capable of channeling God’s love and forgiveness than you or any Christian. All of us can re-represent God! Every Christian has priestly opportunities! Your neighbor, grandchild or friend need grace? God’s waiting but for you to deliver!
Our most visible symbol of that conviction is how we practice communion. More than clergy preside at our Table; lay people get in the game too. In our bulletin, even, we remove Rev. from my name when it’s my turn to host. That’s to highlight the fact I’m empowered to serve at the Table because of my baptism, not ordination. Being Disciples, different churches do it different, but all include something of this belief- the priesthood of all believers. God sees us all the same.
Typically, Disciples’ churches designate “Elders” for that task. For various reasons, we dub our Elders “Servant Leaders.” Many of you have taken a Servant Leader turn. FYI, our current Servant Leaders are LeAnn, Russ, Deb Knight and- most recently- Ben Wellumson (thank Donna Jarvi and Glenda for their recently-ended, good service!) As Servant Leaders, these faithful Christians provide worship leadership, and community-wide spiritual leadership too. They’re visible symbols of God’s grace made tangible in our midst, like any good priest. If you have concerns about health- spiritual or physical; for you, a friend or the church as a whole- they’re ready to listen and respond. That’s what Servant Leaders do.
But neither forget that you too are empowered to stand in God’s place for another in need. Be it with words of comfort, challenge or forgiveness, act the priest. That’s what all Disciples can do.
Grace and Peace,
Shane Read more!
For instance, say someone asks, “What do Disciples believe in?” Bad, but frequent, answer? “Uh…Jesus…” Better answer? “I’m glad you asked! Truth is, we disagree about much. But that’s fine, because our most important- let’s call it conviction- is that everyone has freedom to believe differently. We think God is so grand, and humans so interesting, we can all claim various things about God and Jesus, and still all be faithful. After all, no one knows the full truth about God, right?” In other words, freedom is more important to Disciples than conformity. It makes for more diverse beliefs, but isn’t a rainbow more beautiful than plain white paper?
(By the way, should that conversation ever come up, end it this way, “Why not celebrate that awesome idea with us?! Services begin at 10. We can go to lunch after…”)
Anyway, I bring this up to highlight another core Disciples’ conviction. Indeed, this one’s my favorite, and is shared by most Protestants. It’s a belief in the “priesthood of all believers,” i.e. all Christians have the capacity to act as “priests.” Which begs the question- What’s a priest? And how do I act as one? Maybe you’re imagining a man in a black shirt and collar, seated in a confessional booth. That’s one way our Catholic brothers (but not sisters, alas) put ideas about priesthood into practice.
But the idea goes deeper. Reconsider that confessional practice- a priest acts as an intermediary between God and another person; being God’s ears, speaking God’s words of grace, standing in for God. When performed with skill and compassion, Catholic confession can prove a profound gift. Yet that basic behavior- standing in God’s place for another, sharing God’s special grace with a neighbor- transcends the confessional experience, and resides the core of “priesthood.” And it needs to happen, because God’s so mysteriously vast, we little humans need help approaching God. Without another to act our ‘priest’ sometimes, we feel disconnected, unredeemed.
One main difference between us and Catholics, however, is who qualifies as priest. Put simply, Disciples don’t think it takes ordination for a person to stand in fully for God. I may know more about the Bible than you. I’d guess I’ve preached more sermons. But I’m no more capable of channeling God’s love and forgiveness than you or any Christian. All of us can re-represent God! Every Christian has priestly opportunities! Your neighbor, grandchild or friend need grace? God’s waiting but for you to deliver!
Our most visible symbol of that conviction is how we practice communion. More than clergy preside at our Table; lay people get in the game too. In our bulletin, even, we remove Rev. from my name when it’s my turn to host. That’s to highlight the fact I’m empowered to serve at the Table because of my baptism, not ordination. Being Disciples, different churches do it different, but all include something of this belief- the priesthood of all believers. God sees us all the same.
Typically, Disciples’ churches designate “Elders” for that task. For various reasons, we dub our Elders “Servant Leaders.” Many of you have taken a Servant Leader turn. FYI, our current Servant Leaders are LeAnn, Russ, Deb Knight and- most recently- Ben Wellumson (thank Donna Jarvi and Glenda for their recently-ended, good service!) As Servant Leaders, these faithful Christians provide worship leadership, and community-wide spiritual leadership too. They’re visible symbols of God’s grace made tangible in our midst, like any good priest. If you have concerns about health- spiritual or physical; for you, a friend or the church as a whole- they’re ready to listen and respond. That’s what Servant Leaders do.
But neither forget that you too are empowered to stand in God’s place for another in need. Be it with words of comfort, challenge or forgiveness, act the priest. That’s what all Disciples can do.
Grace and Peace,
Shane Read more!
Wednesday, January 22, 2014
Champion…
Most of you know I invest too much of my emotional well-being in the fortunes of my favorite football team- The Denver Broncos. And perhaps you’ve heard by now that the Broncos recently became champions of the American Football Conference, earning the right to represent the AFC in February 2nd’s international commercial extravaganza. Excuse me. I meant, The Super Bowl.
In our dominated-by-competition culture, the term “champion” carries one specific connotation most often. A champion is the winner, the victor, the best, that which comes out on top. Obviously, sport is a natural arena where people use “champion” to describe a successful participant. But so too is “champion” thrown around after, say, a comparison of blenders a person might purchase. You put the machines through a battery of culinary tests, and the highest performing gets dubbed the champion. Presumably, it’s this connotation being relied upon when brand names incorporate “champion”- windows, shoes, spark plugs, juicers. They want to say they’re #1.
But there’s another meaning for “champion”; related, but it shades a bit different. A champion could also refer to a person who represents a group of people, who works most effectively on their behalf and upholds their rights and desires. For example, in Hebrew Bible times, opposing armies often designated a Champion. This was the best fighter among their ranks, the most effective advocate for their battlefield interests. And it was common for those armies to send their champions into single combat - rather than fight in full- winner’s army claims victory. Think David and Goliath, one the Israelite champion, the other a champion for the Philistines.
In one regard, this person was “the best” among his people group, so similar to how I first used the word above. But more important was this champion’s role as a representative for the group, or rather, advocate and leader, its guiding star. It’s in this sense we speak of Martin Luther King Jr. as “championing” civil rights. Not that he won a competition among other 1960s activists. Rather, it’s saying that he represented the interests of that issue and its constituency effectively; he worked well for racial justice. So too has the most recent pope, Francis, been called a “champion for the poor.”
Several years ago, my wife and I talked about our dissatisfaction with using “Lord” to describe Jesus. I know it’s important to the classical identity for Disciples of Christ; we confess that “Jesus is Lord,” and leave it at that. But that metaphor- Lord- sounds more regal, or aristocratic than I usually value. I’m a fan of democracy. I think Jesus would celebrate us being equal before the law, having no “lords” to lord over us. For that reason, and more besides, we wondered if another term or contemporary metaphor might be better Christ.
I suspect this question wouldn’t matter to some of you, but it got our minds going. “Best Friend” seemed too familiar; “CEO” too wrapped up in moral complexity. Likewise, using current political offices as a metaphor for Jesus- President, Prime Minister, Senator, Secretary- also felt too compromised for our tastes, not strong enough or holy enough to designate Christ.
At which point, Tabitha said, “You know, I think Jesus is my…Champion.” I loved that idea, knowing she meant not that Jesus was like Denver this season. The importance of Christ isn’t that we believe he’d kick butt in a tournament including Muhammad, Moses and Krishna. Instead, it was the notion that, better than any other figure with whom we Christians identify, Jesus stood for the best of what was possible in our spiritual lives. He represented the best of who we could be. He works on our behalf still to ensure we know we’re forgiven, loved, and free. You’ve maybe heard, therefore, in the past couple years, I’ve ended many prayers in “the name of Jesus, my Champion.” Because I believe he loves me as best I can be loved, and calls me to be the best I can be. And however much I’ll cheer for the Broncos in two Sundays, even their success can’t hold a candle to this Light for All the World, our Champion of Grace.
Grace and Peace,
Shane
Read more!
In our dominated-by-competition culture, the term “champion” carries one specific connotation most often. A champion is the winner, the victor, the best, that which comes out on top. Obviously, sport is a natural arena where people use “champion” to describe a successful participant. But so too is “champion” thrown around after, say, a comparison of blenders a person might purchase. You put the machines through a battery of culinary tests, and the highest performing gets dubbed the champion. Presumably, it’s this connotation being relied upon when brand names incorporate “champion”- windows, shoes, spark plugs, juicers. They want to say they’re #1.
But there’s another meaning for “champion”; related, but it shades a bit different. A champion could also refer to a person who represents a group of people, who works most effectively on their behalf and upholds their rights and desires. For example, in Hebrew Bible times, opposing armies often designated a Champion. This was the best fighter among their ranks, the most effective advocate for their battlefield interests. And it was common for those armies to send their champions into single combat - rather than fight in full- winner’s army claims victory. Think David and Goliath, one the Israelite champion, the other a champion for the Philistines.
In one regard, this person was “the best” among his people group, so similar to how I first used the word above. But more important was this champion’s role as a representative for the group, or rather, advocate and leader, its guiding star. It’s in this sense we speak of Martin Luther King Jr. as “championing” civil rights. Not that he won a competition among other 1960s activists. Rather, it’s saying that he represented the interests of that issue and its constituency effectively; he worked well for racial justice. So too has the most recent pope, Francis, been called a “champion for the poor.”
Several years ago, my wife and I talked about our dissatisfaction with using “Lord” to describe Jesus. I know it’s important to the classical identity for Disciples of Christ; we confess that “Jesus is Lord,” and leave it at that. But that metaphor- Lord- sounds more regal, or aristocratic than I usually value. I’m a fan of democracy. I think Jesus would celebrate us being equal before the law, having no “lords” to lord over us. For that reason, and more besides, we wondered if another term or contemporary metaphor might be better Christ.
I suspect this question wouldn’t matter to some of you, but it got our minds going. “Best Friend” seemed too familiar; “CEO” too wrapped up in moral complexity. Likewise, using current political offices as a metaphor for Jesus- President, Prime Minister, Senator, Secretary- also felt too compromised for our tastes, not strong enough or holy enough to designate Christ.
At which point, Tabitha said, “You know, I think Jesus is my…Champion.” I loved that idea, knowing she meant not that Jesus was like Denver this season. The importance of Christ isn’t that we believe he’d kick butt in a tournament including Muhammad, Moses and Krishna. Instead, it was the notion that, better than any other figure with whom we Christians identify, Jesus stood for the best of what was possible in our spiritual lives. He represented the best of who we could be. He works on our behalf still to ensure we know we’re forgiven, loved, and free. You’ve maybe heard, therefore, in the past couple years, I’ve ended many prayers in “the name of Jesus, my Champion.” Because I believe he loves me as best I can be loved, and calls me to be the best I can be. And however much I’ll cheer for the Broncos in two Sundays, even their success can’t hold a candle to this Light for All the World, our Champion of Grace.
Grace and Peace,
Shane
Read more!
Tuesday, January 14, 2014
Strictly business,
As part of a Collegeville Institute fellowship I received, I spent last Monday and Tuesday meeting with other new-ish Minneapolis pastors and several Minnesota business leaders. The goal was to learn more about this sector of civil society and discern connections with religion. The conversations were full, enlightening and challenging. I slept hard when I got home!
Some of you already knew I was doing this, because of one advance homework assignment. I was required to identify three “business people” in my congregation, and ask them questions about their work and its relationship to faith. I’ll admit- I loved those conversations! I think they did too… We sat together over coffee for an hour each time. I asked things like, “When did/do you find joy in your business life?”, “Is this a calling?”, “What challenges does business face these days?” And it turns out- unsurprising I’m sure- we have some profound and faithful business folk in our church, my friends!
Indeed, I enjoyed myself so much, I wanted to “interview” more than those three. Alas, between the holidays and other stuff, I couldn’t get to everyone. Still, even though my assignment is done, I’d love to keep the practice going. So here’s an open invitation- I’ll buy the coffee if you want to chat with me about your business (or non-profit, or education, or government, or “family engineering”- as they call homemakers these days) pursuits and how faith plays a role. I know I’ll learn something, and maybe you will too. How often do you take time to explore those connections in depth? If you’re like most people, I’d guess infrequently. We usually talk about other things…
But we needn’t avoid the topic. Our PCCC folk and the business leaders my group met with last week shared a conviction that (at least, some of) what each did in their workaday lives held greater meaning than earning money. You know the caricature, surely, that working people suffer through their daily grind so they can finance what they really care about. I know that’s real for some. Their job isn’t some grand “calling,” but just what they can find right now that pays. And that’s totally fine. Indeed, the most important stuff for most of us- family, God, the Broncos- lays mostly beyond our employment.
Nevertheless, even for some folk who don’t like their jobs, opportunities for deeper meaning abound. Take an example I heard from several folk, none of whom claimed a great passion for their particular industry of employment. Yet situations arose where they had challenges to solve, and they enjoyed rising to meet those challenges. Or they had chances to impact others on their team, and they enjoyed helping those others do better. When asked, they claimed that these experiences brought additional satisfaction to their work, above and beyond the paycheck. And even if other parts of their jobs were numbing or brutal, there was more to the full story.
That shouldn’t surprise us. Wise theologians describe humans as “meaning making machines.” We created to not simply slog through our lives. It’s in our spiritual DNA to search for more... from our relationships with our coworkers, if possible, beyond complaining about our boss. More joy in what we do, when possible, beyond the fact it’s over when we clock out. If we can make a positive difference in another’s life- a client, customer, partner- we strive to do so, at least we can. And as Christians, who believe that every moment holds a possibility for grace, and who claim God’s loving presence throughout the week (not just Sunday), we should strive for that. We should take whatever we’re blessed to do nor and invest as much meaning into it as possible. Whether that’s sales or management, working at the local video store or being blissfully retired, God is with you and hopes you see that, not to mention help others see it too.
Anyway, you can tell I enjoyed those conversations, and I’m looking forward to…more. Seriously, call me. We’ll chat. I’m anxious to hear how God is present with you!
Grace and Peace,
Shane Read more!
Some of you already knew I was doing this, because of one advance homework assignment. I was required to identify three “business people” in my congregation, and ask them questions about their work and its relationship to faith. I’ll admit- I loved those conversations! I think they did too… We sat together over coffee for an hour each time. I asked things like, “When did/do you find joy in your business life?”, “Is this a calling?”, “What challenges does business face these days?” And it turns out- unsurprising I’m sure- we have some profound and faithful business folk in our church, my friends!
Indeed, I enjoyed myself so much, I wanted to “interview” more than those three. Alas, between the holidays and other stuff, I couldn’t get to everyone. Still, even though my assignment is done, I’d love to keep the practice going. So here’s an open invitation- I’ll buy the coffee if you want to chat with me about your business (or non-profit, or education, or government, or “family engineering”- as they call homemakers these days) pursuits and how faith plays a role. I know I’ll learn something, and maybe you will too. How often do you take time to explore those connections in depth? If you’re like most people, I’d guess infrequently. We usually talk about other things…
But we needn’t avoid the topic. Our PCCC folk and the business leaders my group met with last week shared a conviction that (at least, some of) what each did in their workaday lives held greater meaning than earning money. You know the caricature, surely, that working people suffer through their daily grind so they can finance what they really care about. I know that’s real for some. Their job isn’t some grand “calling,” but just what they can find right now that pays. And that’s totally fine. Indeed, the most important stuff for most of us- family, God, the Broncos- lays mostly beyond our employment.
Nevertheless, even for some folk who don’t like their jobs, opportunities for deeper meaning abound. Take an example I heard from several folk, none of whom claimed a great passion for their particular industry of employment. Yet situations arose where they had challenges to solve, and they enjoyed rising to meet those challenges. Or they had chances to impact others on their team, and they enjoyed helping those others do better. When asked, they claimed that these experiences brought additional satisfaction to their work, above and beyond the paycheck. And even if other parts of their jobs were numbing or brutal, there was more to the full story.
That shouldn’t surprise us. Wise theologians describe humans as “meaning making machines.” We created to not simply slog through our lives. It’s in our spiritual DNA to search for more... from our relationships with our coworkers, if possible, beyond complaining about our boss. More joy in what we do, when possible, beyond the fact it’s over when we clock out. If we can make a positive difference in another’s life- a client, customer, partner- we strive to do so, at least we can. And as Christians, who believe that every moment holds a possibility for grace, and who claim God’s loving presence throughout the week (not just Sunday), we should strive for that. We should take whatever we’re blessed to do nor and invest as much meaning into it as possible. Whether that’s sales or management, working at the local video store or being blissfully retired, God is with you and hopes you see that, not to mention help others see it too.
Anyway, you can tell I enjoyed those conversations, and I’m looking forward to…more. Seriously, call me. We’ll chat. I’m anxious to hear how God is present with you!
Grace and Peace,
Shane Read more!
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