The Power of Vision

As the General Assembly Mission Council said farewell to Tom Taylor as the Deputy Executive Director for Mission, many of us in leadership felt concerned about who will be the next our next leader? Who will set the direction for the next few years? What vision will this new leader cast for us? Enter Roger Demody. Recently he was introduced at the GAMC meeting as the one who will join the staff in this vital senior leadership position. As he spoke to us, he said in his interview process, “I dream of seeing the PCUSA be known for being a turn-around denomination.” My attention was immediately caught by the simplicity and hope of his declarative and visionary statement. The more I though about being a “turn-around” denomination, I was inspired! I thought I could give the next 3-5 years of my life to see that dream come true.

The power of a compelling vision is simply stated, thoughtfully accepted, and passionately pursued. Can you imagine with me over the next few years seeing a movement of church vitality that calls churches to discipleship, evangelism, and contextual ministry? Can you see hundreds of churches being formed every year by churches who are willing to own them, pray for them, and see its success? Will you do your part to see the PC(USA) be a turn-around denomination? It begins today. It begins in our local churches. The vision has been cast. Will you do everything in your power to accomplish the vision? Will you give your life for the vision? Count me in, I want to be first in line.

Comments

[Kirsten]

Thanks for the inspiration Eric!

[R Dickson]

It is an inspirational thought, but much like the political slogans for Change, it lacks evidence of an actionable plan. More importantly it Roger Demody has assumed that the PCUSA leadership is interested in "turning around".
It think that the Peacemakers at any cost and the Clergy for Convenient Gospel, are quite happy with the current direction. They know that they are turning the denomination away from it's roots and the Gospel. And they are well funded to continue the fight

[C. Duke]

As one who attended the Evangelism track at the NCD and Evangelism Conference in St. Pete, and several conferences under my belt (along with 22 years in ministry), this conference pointed out where I have failed. Beginning yesterday, I have stepped back into the difficult and messy work of calling my church back to the vision. I had not articulated what happened, but Shawn Lovejoy did. Bless him! If you taped those two sermons, could those be posted. I think I need to hear them several more times.

[Steelers jerseys]

How nice to hear how much conservatives think of their new friends!

[custom packaging]

That's the power of unity. Im totally impressed for what happened.