We Need Each Other: District Moderator's Message
Covid and all its variants changed the way we did church together. And so I learned to text prayers as a way to stay connected with my congregation's needs. Although that was effective, it wasn't enough. It has been difficult to restore the missing fellowship that was such a part of who we were. In our own congregation, we are reviving fellowship, learning more about each other, and learning to love each other all over again.
It was good to be together at District Conference. It was good to see familiar faces, and reconnect with everyone from all of the other churches. All that great fellowship reminded me how much we need each other.
We need each other in our own congregation, and we need other church relationships in our denomination. Like in our congregations, we may need to let go of what worked in the past and seek new ways to connect with other churches to restore fellowship.
Jesus sent out the 72 in pairs to minister in their world. Why in pairs of two? I think we are not to be the Lone Ranger. In ministry, as in life, we need each other. We are created to be relational. Now how do we kindle or rekindle relationships?
Being part of a Ministry Team allows me to do a good bit of pulpit fill in other churches. I do understand the need for time off, and that gives me an opportunity to fill that need. But most importantly, it gives me a time to visit and build relationships in other churches.
Our denomination has faced tough times, and will face obstacles in the future. How do we move forward? We move forward together. We move forward in the Agape love of Jesus Christ!
If you feel that there is something missing in your congregation, try nurturing fellowship. For some that term is a bit old fashioned; try seeking to love those in your group. Try seeking to go beyond your congregation, to other Church of the Brethren congregations.
Love and understanding will go far in building up the Kingdom in the South / Central Indiana District.
Agape from your Moderator,
Bruce Dunk, preacher
Lower Deer Creek COB
