In the recent church survey, there was an overwhelming request at all ages, for more in-depth spiritual formation and leadership development. In a recent conversation with some men at Stanwich, the idea was floated for a monthly reading and then town hall conversation around the reading.
Our first two books pressed into a fresh review of the God of Jesus' Bible (our Old Testament) and the person of Jesus. Why? Because over time it is easy to develope some incomplete or misguided understandings. Our third book builds off of the first two, to discuss the recent phenomenon of deconstructed faith and people walking away from the church, especially next generations.
Chuck’s question: When they leave the church is it because of their view of God or the way the church has often portrayed God in attitude, word and deed?
Chuck's reminder: Stanwich is a politically neutral church. Jesus is our center and we want to stay united in Christ regardless of our political opinions. The authors of our third book make strong political statements in chapter four. In reading their representations of how people feel in America, do not assume that this is the position of the church leadership. Stanwich Church leadership does not have an official political position apart from declaring that King Jesus is still on the throne.
Join us in reading a book to get the foundational reflections going and then attend a facilitated town hall conversation, with a few sidebar teaching moments from Pastor Chuck.
Our Next Town Hall:
March Reading: Invisible Jesus, by Scot McKnight and Tommy Preson Phillips | Town Hall: Thursday, April 24
Future readings to be determined as we travel through these three reads and discern what our felt desires are for discipleship learning.
Copies of the books are available in the Stanwich bookstore.
