It seems that the growing community focus of the charismatic and Pentecostal congregations, as well as their passion and urgency, is having a galvanising effect on the wider church. But it does mean passionately emphasising first those things on which we agree: that our communities are in desperate need for love, grace and an encounter with Jesus. This kind of ‘unity in action’ is not based on a theological reductionism which purely focuses on ‘activism’. This shift is encouraging because often there is a generosity that lies behind the growing unity – a willingness to acknowledge that the Church is the Body of Christ and that other traditions have strengths that we lack. No longer can it be said that these churches are simply interested in gathering people for praise and worship on a Sunday. And again, more often than not, it is charismatic and Pentecostal churches that are at the forefront of this new form of ecumenism. These initiatives are bringing churches together with a purpose – to increase the impact they are having in the community. One of the best examples is Transform Newhamin East London but there are also a growing number of initiatives such as Love Southendand, local to me, Love Streatham. There is also a change in many ‘Churches Together’ groups who have developed a far more dynamic and outward focus that moves far beyond organising joint services. Initiatives such as Redeeming our Communities, Soul in the City (2004), Eden and Street Pastorsepitomise this theological and missional shift in evangelical thinking and practice. Over the last ten years there has been a significant shift in many Pentecostal and charismatic congregations who are now emphasising God’s saving purposes for their whole area rather than simply individuals. The impetus for congregations to work together is now coming from some unlikely sources. Theologically and culturally there are many differences – but a shared desire to see Jesus have an impact in their community has drawn them together. The congregations involved include Pentecostal, Salvation Army, independent charismatic, Methodist, Catholic and two very different Anglican congregations. One example is in Deptford, South London where Livability have worked with many different congregations to help them come together and sign a covenant to work together for the benefit of the area. Through this community mission varied congregations across the UK have discovered a unity in action: a common cause as one Church that is seeking to serve the local community. This ‘new ecumenism’ has been primarily driven by mission initiatives which have sought to serve the needs of the local community in practical and tangible ways. (published as a chapter in Crossover City – Resources for Urban Mission and Transformation )ĭespite the high profile disagreements between Christians in recent years, there has been a real growth in local initiatives which bring different congregations together.
0 Comments
Leave a Reply. |
AuthorWrite something about yourself. No need to be fancy, just an overview. ArchivesCategories |