Mission Consultation

The experience of the last three days has been nothing short of profound. A disparate group of Presbyterians came together - who have in common a love of Jesus Christ and a passion for mission but who might otherwise have characterized each other more by perceived differences than commonalities.  That is, until we gathered and became acquainted with each other, in many cases for the first time. We worshiped, sang, studied, laughed, spoke from heads and hearts, prayed, discerned together and emerged with "An Invitation to Expanding Partnership in God’s Mission," signed by every participant present on the last day.  Covenanting to live and serve together, committing to working cooperatively, celebrating diverse Presbyterian approaches to mission, sharing responsibility for educating and preparation of all Presbyterians for mission and seeking and supporting more mission personnel, are among the statements in the invitation. “Breakthrough,” “watershed,” “historic,” “moving of the Holy Spirit” were among the words used as we each described what had just happened. And the most frequent word “Hope” – hope for the Presbyterian Church (USA), for our witness in the world, our respect, encouragement and support of each other -- this truly was the church together.

Each of us committed to share the document and the invitation with others over the next three months.  And so we will.  So watch for more.  And thanks be to God.