Cynthia Holder Rich is currently the Interim Pastor of First Presbyterian Church in Muskegon, MI and serves on the Special Committee on the Nature of the Church in the 21st Century of the Presbyterian Church (USA). In the latter role she posted five questions, which were developed by the committee:
- What is your vision for the church in the 21st century?
- What characteristics will draw the great diversity (racial ethnic, age, gender, etc.) of our country into our community of faith in the 21st century?
- What do you think are the highest priorities and challenges for the church in the 21st century?
- What unique voice do we, as Presbyterians in the Reformed tradition, bring regarding vital ministry in churches and in society?
- How do we move the church past division in theology, evangelism and mission to work toward unity in Christ?
So What?
As we move further into the 21st century it is becoming increasingly clear that the church, especially on the denominational level, is starting to change and must change in even more significant ways. It is essential that many voices are heard and many ideas are included in these plans.
- If you are a member of the Presbyterian Church (USA) congregation, I encourage you to go to her post and read about how you can formally submit a reply to one or more of these questions.
- If you are a member of a church affiliated with another tradition, I encourage you to struggle with these questions and to substitute your own tradition into the fourth question. Consider sharing your responses with others in your church and/or online.