Listening, wondering and exploring were concepts brought to the surface as the ground was prepared for the start of Going Local: Cycle Two. Going Local is a process that guides congregations and clergy into new habits and practices needed to be the church in a world that is constantly changing.
“This is an exciting time in the life of the church.” says the Rev. Ginny Dinsmore, Coordinator for Missional Church Strategy. “We are being invited by the Spirit of God to risk moving from our places of comfort – crossing the thresholds of our homes, churches, and offices – to discover what God might be up to within ourselves, our congregations, and in the neighborhoods and communities where we live, work, play and worship.”
On Saturday, March 21, 2015, representatives, Vestry members and Clergy from six congregations gathered for a day of interactive exercises including Dwelling in the Word, sharing their congregation’s story, naming common themes, and locating their congregation on a cycle that represents the challenge of reforming missional systems. Working separately, clergy and lay people shared their greatest joys and challenges and where they saw God in the midst of their congregation’s life. In addition to the day’s work, congregations were given two simple exercises to begin to explore some ways of discovering and listening to their local neighborhoods. As we all continue to listen, the key question is: where might God be at work in your neighborhoods?
If you are interested in learning more about Going Local, or in having a team offer a forum or workshop in your congregation, please contact the Rev. Ginny Dinsmore at 973-430-9912 or gdinsmore@dioceseofnewark.org.
