Thirty individuals arrived to our first discussion of denominational issues. The discussion was supported by a Ruling Elder, Julie Wells who served as a subject matter expert in the area of General Assembly. We were further supported by attorney, professional mediator, and Ruling Elder at First Pres, John Palmer. This initial discussion enjoyed a positive and respectful tone. After all, we would expect nothing less at First Presbyterian! There were honest comments with enough candor and humor to make us feel like we were involved in a real conversation.
We covered questions regarding Presbyterian process and decisions about divestment from companies involved in the Israeli/Palestinian conflict. Concerns shared included:
- a concern that the denomination was tilting toward a liberal orientation
- a concern that there is a lack of unity in the larger church
- a concern for a continued commitment to the Reformed Tradition in which we those with whom we disagree with kindness and respect. A word is missing here??
- a concern to stay, talk, learn, vote and find consensus
On the whole, the group seemed to be counseling togetherness to one another.
At the conclusion of our time, there was some question about meeting for subsequent gatherings. There was enough interest that we will gather again on March 1st and March 5th. Here is what one can expect at those gatherings.
March 1st will be a gathering from 4-6 p.m. in the church Fellowship Hall.
After receiving an overview of the book Godviews, we will discuss the various Godviews and their interdependence. This lays the foundation for March 5th. An intent to attend both March 1st and 5th will benefit our process greatly.
March 5th will be a guided discussion on the redefinition of marriage. This has been a discussion that some approach with fear and trembling. Because we are not in the business to persuade one another away from our opinions, the March 5th discussion will be an opportunity to listen to others, practice speaking and to engage prayer as we deepen our discipleship.
Our presbytery, Grace, votes on amendments, at its March 7th meeting. We will be sure there is a congregational gathering to report the results of that vote and to have some conversation as a larger body as well. Stay tuned for the date and time of that congregational gathering.
I will be posting in the days to come as we prepare for the March 1st meeting. It would be great to fill Fellowship Hall with 100 folks. Small group work alternated with large group conversation may help us, as a March 1st congregational microcosm, to imagine congregational sentiment at the macro level.
Waco Pastor 