Discerning Mission

By D. Grace Duddy

Most congregations today have lost the language of the Spirit. While they proclaim the Spirit’s work through communities and individuals in the Bible, they have a difficult time imagining, let alone naming, the ways in which the Spirit of God is working in their communities today. Congregations …

"We're different, here at my church.  We aren't captive to the world."  Have you ever encountered such a place? A Christian community where they see themselves as something special, something holy, something different? Sometimes these places are wonderful, filled with wonderful people with wonderful hearts doing wonderful things for those in need. Quite often, though, when we call ourselves different, we establish boundaries between us and them. 

In her book, …

By Sandy Troyan, MA Senior in Children, Youth and Family Ministry at Luther Seminary

Edited & posted by Keith Long, MDiv Senior concentrating in Children, Youth and Family Ministry and Congregational Leadership and Mission at Luther Seminary

The conversation is alive, yet holds two dominate perspectives:

1. I am aware that the world around me is different. Things look different. People are different. And the very nature of our wants and needs are much different.

2. I am aware of the world …