Birthing Pains

On March 17, the Wesley and Emmanuel church communities will vote on whether to amalgamate into a new community.  From the looks of it, this will happen!

 

 If the vote is “yes”, there will be some change ahead.  Even though we are keeping the Emmanuel name and the Emmanuel site on Smyth Road, the way ahead has been altered.

That change holds promise for us all but if it’s like any other change in our lives, then the shift has the potential for disagreement, upset and spiritual growth.

Parker Palmer, a Quaker and a voice of wisdom that I have often appreciated, speaks of five habits that we can cultivate which will continue to move us forward in positive ways.

1.      An understanding that we are all in this together.

2.      An appreciation of the value of “otherness.”

3.      An ability to hold tension in life-giving ways.

4.      A sense of personal voice and agency.

5.      A capacity to create community.

As a participant and an observer in the steps of this journey toward amalgamation, I have noted that questions and fears have been out in the open and treated with respect. Experienced Presbytery leadership has been crucial.  Individuals in both congregations have taken the initiative to engage and that has made a significant difference.

 

The above five points have been evident in the conversations and meetings that have taken place, which makes me feel hopeful.  If we vote “yes” on the 17^th, then in the coming year, as we explore what this new community will be and do together, it may be helpful to continue to keep these points in mind.

 

We’ve had a couple of new babies born recently at Emanuel.  Another one may be coming soon.  Every new birth shakes up our lives but what joy there is in every new creation!

 

 

Peter