On September 13th our congregations were invited to respond to the Vision 2019 project. We are a 5 point parish in North Central Alberta at the lower end of the Diocese of Athabasca. Three of our congregations are Anglican, one is Lutheran and one is a shared ministry partnership of Anglican & Lutheran.
Unfortunately, not many members took advantage of the invitation to respond. However, here are the responses received.
I am saddened by the current state of the Anglican Church of Canada on a national level. I see bullying tactics being used by many “conservatives” and “liberals” alike in an attempt to force members, parishes, and Dioceses to take sides in issues that those same bullies do not want to “discuss”. Certainly not willing to discuss in open, Christ-centered conversation. They would rather turn away from the table fellowship.
At the same time that I am saddened, I am also excited. I am excited because I believe we are being shook up for a reason. I am also excited at the local level to witness, and be a part of, the ongoing full communion discussions, projects, and programs taking place with other denominations.
I pray that our church will move in to the future focused on our calling as Christians to bring about the Kingdom of God here on earth. Kingdom first, Anglican second. That means being faithful to the Gospel, sometimes saying no, and sometimes yes. We must put Christ and the Cross first in all that we do. I pray that we will seek to feed the hungry, clothe the naked, heal the sick, comfort the afflicted and shine light into the darkness of the world. I pray that we will listen twice as much as we speak. I pray that we will refuse to be bullied. I pray that we will continue conversations at all levels because if we say there is no room for conversation, we are saying there is no room for God.
Lesley+
I think we are in a real crisis and need new leadership that is listening to what God wants us to hear. We need more visiting around the Diocese and Parishes.
Maybe we need to look at the length of time a Bishop stays in office – a little stale being there too long. We need to find a way to minister to the younger generation of today so that we have a full church in 2019.
(author unknown)
We are improving in attendance and have services every week, Having a minister and a lay minister willing to come with strong messages has helped.
In 2019 with the help of our Lord we will have a larger Christian family.
Cecil H.
Where we are now – God bless us, we are working to stay like we are.
Where do I want the Church to be in 2019 – just hope it will be as good as it is now and we pray for the Lord to help keep it there.
(unknown)
Where we are now – In crisis, not focusing on CHRIST. Too many distractions – political and personal.
Where would I like the church to be in 10 years? Still open so we can worship the Lord. I have my doubts, maybe it is lack of faith.
Jo S.
