..."Evangelism is mission but mission is not merely evangelism" (Moltmann 1977)...."Mission is not a programme of the church but rather an attribute of God" (Bosch 1991).... "we are called to display what it means to be a colony of heaven mission embodies the total impact of the church on the world it's involvement with the social, political and moral life of the community and nation where it is placed" (Green 1990).... "The Church exists primarily for the sake of mission in the world. Mission is therefore the reason why the Church exists (Needham 1987).... "Mission comes first from the heart of God and we are caught up in it rather than initiating it (Bosch 1991)..."we seek to renew the face of the earth, all things and all peoples - that's mission" Archbishop Rowan Williams

Monday, January 23, 2012

Community, a Quality of the Heart

Found this from Nouwen both challenging and helpful.
"The word community has many connotations, some positive, some negative. Community can make us think of a safe togetherness, shared meals, common goals, and joyful celebrations. It also can call forth images of sectarian exclusivity, in-group language, self-satisfied isolation, and romantic naiveté. However, community is first of all a quality of the heart. It grows from the spiritual knowledge that we are alive not for ourselves but for one another. Community is the fruit of our capacity to make the interests of others more important than our own (see Philippians 2:4). The question, therefore, is not "How can we make community?" but "How can we develop and nurture giving hearts?"

Labels: Henri Nouwen

posted by Gordon at 1:15 PM

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Name: Gordon
Location: United Kingdom

URBANarmy – are the thoughts and theological reflections of an insignificant Salvation Army officer trying to show true hope, grace, love and freedom in a significant way. URBANarmy -is a story of Missio Dei driving an all-encompassing grace-centred mission. URBANarmy – is an open compilation of lessons learned from day to day ministry, dialogue and reading. URBANarmy – is Gordon who finds total fulfillment in demonstrating the Kingdom of God. URBANarmy – is now the fusion and exploration of 'mission' and 'spiritual formation' while trying to inspire a new generation of Salvation Army Officers as to their role in God's plan for His creation.

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      Reed, A. (2011) Quest for spiritual community: reclaiming spiritual guidance for contemporary congregations
    • Meyer, K. (2010) Whole Life Transformation:Becoming the change your church needs. IVP
    • Brueggemann, W. (1982). Praying the Psalms. Winona, Minn.: Saint Mary's Press.
    • Ware, C. (2001)Saint Benedict on the Freeway: A Rule of Life for the 21st Century

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