Clergy Notes – Sunday, June 16, 2019
In the reflection this week you will see that I’ve noted the 5 Marks of Mission and the Mission and Vision Statements of our church here in the Downtown Eastside.
We are a parish which is trying to grow. What does that look like? Not all growth is about numbers, but growing our numbers is part of our mission. Consider our mission objectives: We are committed to inviting and welcoming friends, family, and strangers into our midst. We are committed to developing relationships and fellowship in open, honest, and spiritual ways. We need to gather and listen to one another, we need to gather and delve into scripture together to continue our spiritual growth.
Acts 2:46-47
Day by day, as they spent much time together in the temple, they broke bread at home[k]and ate their food with glad and generous hearts, praising God and having the goodwill of all the people. And day by day the Lord added to their number those who were being saved.
On a larger scale as a church we have affirmed the 5 Marks of Mission: to teach, baptize and nurture new believers, to respond to human need by loving service.
Over the next few weeks you are going to see me with a large map of the greater Vancouver area. I have been listening to your feedback about your longing for community outside of Sunday mornings, and our current formation sessions. The feedback on formation has been positive, however, the clergy team is hearing that not all of you are able to make the Thursday evening or Sunday sessions, and for some of you, it would be easier to meet closer to home.
So here is what I propose with the map. Each of you are invited to place a pin where you live so that we can see where would be good locations to offer small group Bible studies, that would allow us to learn and pray together, and make small group gatherings more accessible for all.
Please take a look at the reflection and let me know where you think we are as a parish. You can email me, or better yet, make an appointment and let’s talk.
See you soon,
Mother Lucy
