I believe you have articulated what many of your fellow Presbyterians (myself included) have felt all along. Nevertheless we have a historical opportunity to move forward in a dynamic way to cast our net and seek new ways to intentionally be Church. Thank you!

This is a refreshing and much needed word; and I am moved. Our Presbyterian story of courageous mission is lost to our congregations. Are we called to raise funds for mission, or are we bold enough to tell the story of Justice, Peace and Reconciliation as it is seen in the lives of our mission co-workers and our partners in mission? Congregations will stand behind and support the ministry of those who yearn for and work for peace in their cities and neighborhoods. They will be inspired by the faithful service of doctors, nurses, teachers whose passion is for the healing of our world. There is an amazing story to share that will raise our hearts, minds and souls from the despair of our current situation. Board rooms and CEO offices can never replace the places where the gospel is shared in low roofed “tukles” and dark, ill-equipped clinics at the end of a narrow dirt track that barely deserves the name road. They will never replace the small town churches that partner with their communities to bring hope to children and families who would otherwise do without regular meals because school lunch programs are shut down for the summer. These are the places where the church will find direction and hope and leadership.