We are keenly aware of the changing dynamics of our community. We used to be surrounded by fields, now we are surrounded by neighbours. It’s exciting, but it’s teaching us that we have some learning (and unlearning) to do if we want to share Christ effectively across cultures and languages that are different from our own. Church, we’re up for the challenge!
As part of that learning, Pastor Erin is starting a group on February 23rd that is going to help us grow in living out the Great Commission. Here is what she said:
“Did you know that by the year 2030, it is predicted that across Canada we will no longer be known as a monoculture society? In fact, in our bigger cities, this is already true. Isn’t that amazing? Canada is a beautiful country with rich history and rich culture, and we have done this amazing thing over the past decades of inviting other cultures and countries in, and it’s changed our nation. There is diversity and it brings beauty, it brings strength, it brings really good food, and it also brings challenges. Learning to connect within our church, in our community, in our workplaces, and with our neighbours has become more challenging over the years.
“And so, as a church, we recognize that and want to do something about it. We want to be able to connect within our church family and we want to be able to engage with our outside community well, even with the changing tapestry of cultures around us.
“I want to invite you to join me. There is a group starting on Monday nights over Zoom called ‘Culture Cross.’ It’s a study that explores culture, faith, and what it means to follow Jesus in a diverse world. This study was made by Canadians, for Canadians (which we don’t often get). It was made to help us understand what it means to move beyond assumptions and to build Christ-centred relationships rooted in diversity, finding respect, and finding our mutual agreement.
“I would really love for you to be a part of this group. I want our church to be a place that is strengthened by our diversity and I think that this course can help us connect with one another. And, more than that, I want us to be so well-equipped to talk to our neighbour and our co-worker who comes from a different culture, finding common ground and sharing Christ across cultures really, really well.”
She also sent me this note: “Different cultures often experience the gospel through distinct lenses: some through honour and shame, others through guilt and forgiveness, or fear and power, and some with indifference. All of these ways of seeing salvation can be found in the Old Testament and in how Jesus spoke to people about God’s kingdom.”
Consider what an investment of your time into this group could mean for your effectiveness as a witness for Jesus. Let’s learn (or unlearn!) together!
Pastor Tracy
THIS SUNDAY
SUNDAY, February 15 @ 10am
LEARN / UNLEARN
About Grief
Tracy Dunham
Join us for our IN-PERSON SERVICES OR
LIVESTREAM on Sunday!
10:00 - Live Service & Kids Church (+Church Online)