Where are we now?

Moderator Peter Short reminded us that when we give ourselves over to the unknown uoutcome, we find ourselves in the place where faith is born and raised. There is a need to move away from an assumption in our churches of "progressive leadership" and "entrenched constituency" if we are to move into the next generation.

Nora Sanders, Deputy Minister of First Nations and Métis Relations for the Government of Saskatchewan, offered her thoughts on where we are as a denomination. She noted that adaptation is key to cultural survival, that continued existence requires change. Such change is not relinquishing or surrendering to a dominant other. There is strength in diversity, wisdom in a range of opinion; it is not being wishy-washy, it points instead to "faith so strong it doesn't need details".

Nora posed the question: What elements of United Church are essential to who we are, and what parts need to be adapted? Our own smaller group discussion, suggested the myths of inclusion and social justice in our church (that we're really not as inclusive or just as we think we are) distract us from engaging the world; true ministry is not about testamurs, degrees or interviews, but an honest and genuine care for others, giving all that one has without expectation of return. There was more to what we said, (but I cannot remember more specifically what was said, and I was journalling our group's discussion and have no personal notes).