By: Bishop John

Bishop John — Mon, 25 Jan 2010 12:42:36 +0000

Thanks, Marie. Relationships are at the heart of the Gospel and a healthy community. Just this weekend I had the joy of experiencing the joy of ‘face to face’ engagement with the parishioners of Circular Head. We were opening new facilities due to the growth of an all age ministry in this rural parish. These achievements are a delight. See, http://imaginarydiocese.org/bishopjohn/2010/01/24/circular-head-celebrates-growth/ God is clearly at work honouring your calling as seen in the fruit of the Spirit’s blessing on your ministry. This Good News and news like it, such as from Smithton and Battery Point-Southern Midlands, etc, is what we struggle to communicate both between ourselves [hence the Barnabas Column initiative] and to the wider community. Not clear to me as to what you have in mind re “lack of truly pastoral ministry in ‘new ministries’”? Could this be true of all new ministries as they outreach into new areas or groups of people and establish relationships with them? Blessings for Australia Day.

By: Marie White

Marie White — Mon, 25 Jan 2010 08:51:38 +0000

I am concerned that there is a lack of truly pastoral ministry in ‘new ministries’. Rural ministries are not faceless, our moves and encounters are on show the whole time, so we are careful to present the “face of Christ” in all we say and do. The assumption that our ministry is not evangelical is insulting. we preach the gospel at all services, no platitudes, John3:16 at every opportunity. There is growth here, young and old seek us out; we proclaim Christ and administer the sacraments.we minister to many families, across four generations. It seems to be honoured by God, is it therefore invalid? Incidently the cost to the diocese is minimal. I would welcome an opportunity for further dialogue!!!

Comments on: ‘Christ and culture’ and ‘the public Christian’

By: Bishop John

By: Marie White