“Memories and Dreams”
Not too long ago I was talking to a pastor who leads a diverse congregation in north Minneapolis similar in size to Living Spirit Church. We were talking about intercultural ministry and the joys and challenges of serving a diverse congregation. As he was telling the story of his congregation, he shared this insight:
I’m always encouraging people to dream—to look forward – to expect the Spirit of God to be dancing in our midst. What does it mean for us to be church in this place today? If our memories are stronger than our dreams, then we are a dying church.
If our memories are stronger than our dreams, then we are a dying church. Ouch!
Since coming to Living Spirit three years ago, I have heard stories of Sunday school rooms filled to the brim; of large, robust choirs; of champion softball teams; of large confirmation classes; of multicultural parenting classes; of multicultural murals. I am grateful for the way the Spirit of God has moved in the past at Living Spirit and its predecessor congregations.
Now I’d like to encourage you to dream again – to look forward – to expect the Spirit of God to continue to dance in our midst.
Rather than sharing your memories with me, please tell me your dreams. It may be of a new ministry you’d like to lead or of a legacy gift you’d like to give. It may be plans for a community garden or an outreach ministry to children. It may be a bible study for seniors, a yoga class for young adults or a gymnasium for youth.
All ministries begin with a dream. Twenty years ago you dreamed of tutoring youth in the community, ten years ago you dreamed of serving community meals, three years ago you dreamed of keeping your doors open. You’ve accomplished each of these through the movement of the Spirit.
Now I’d like to encourage you to dream again.
On Monday, May 6, we’ll begin to look forward, expecting the Spirit of God to continue to dance in our midst. All members and friends of the congregation are invited to gather from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. We will center ourselves with prayer and God’s promise, and then reflect upon questions such as:
· Where do you see the Spirit dancing in our midst today?
· What is your dream for the next chapter of the Living Spirit story?
· What is the title of the chapter just concluded and the next chapter that we will write together?
I look forward to dreaming with you.
Peace,
Donna
