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 17th,
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
