In Ontario, the weather has been hot for the last few days, and especially hot when you consider that it’s only May. In the Toronto Star this morning, an article about the weather caught my eye because the headline read, “Beat this heat? We’d rather complain”. http://www.thestar.com/news/gta/article/814469–beat-this-heat-we-d-rather-complain
Canadians love to complain about the weather. Presbyterians love to complain about presbytery. At least, that’s how it seems to me. We say things to our congregation like “Ugh. Presbytery tonight” (insert eyeroll here). Or we create a Facebook status that says, “Off to presbytery. Wish me luck.” Some presbyters complain and don’t go that often; some presbyters go and complain the whole time. Either way, most of us are well-rehearsed grumblers.
If we hope that presbytery will be transformed into a lively, engaging and effective community, we need to sing a new song. It will take some concerted effort, to be sure. I have been startled at how I fall into that same old rut without even thinking! I am trying to be more intentional about what I say (and what expression I wear when I say it). I am trying to remember what will be great about presbytery, like seeing my friends or talking about the mission of the church.
I wonder what you hear when you listen to people talk about presbytery in your part of the country. What do you hear coming out of your own mouth? If the old song isn’t all it could be, perhaps it’s time to try a new one. We can sing it together.
#1 by Brian Fraser at May 28th, 2010
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Great post and an accurate analysis of both self and colleagues. In the end, as you have astutely recognized, presbyteries will change when enough of us choose to show up differently. Our courts are, and have been for several years, infected with chronic cynicism. Its impact is a slow corrosion of possibility and hope. Emmaus, if we all decide to show up with the vision and enthusiasm that was sown at the event, can be an antidote. I, for one, am committed to provoking a new missional attitude in my congregation and presbytery, one that focuses our attention on practicing behaviours that show the rich benefits of walking with Jesus Christ and flourishing in his kingdom. I know I am not alone and firmly believe that together we can transform our expression of church.
#2 by Neal Mathers at June 14th, 2010
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There is a lot of truth in this post but it begs the question of why presbyters feel that way? Is it because we have lost our vision and mission and spend too much time on administration, referrals, reports and dare I say, workshops? Where is the vision, the boldness, the hope? I sometimes feel Presbytery is simply burning already overcommitted people out. I firmly believe Presbytery is a key to renewal for us but not as it functions at present. It’s time for a radical rethink but that requires thinking outside the box.
#3 by Fred M. at September 13th, 2011
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“If we hope that presbytery will be transformed into a lively, engaging and effective community, we need to sing a new song.”
I hope I live to see that day. Great post.