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Lead a Church that Cares 

This is out of the norm for me. At the same, often items come into our in-box which speak about what we need to be as church. One of the sources I have made use of is from The Alban Institute.  

For this Thursday Reflection, I share the following: Lead a Church that Cares 

One of the early Christians’ distinguishing characteristics was their care for one another.  

The first disciples did more than offer each other social niceties and superficial piety. Their affection was not restricted to the borders of biological family. These early Christians reoriented their lives to demonstrate genuine interest in each other’s wellbeing.

The New Testament describes a people who worked to ensure everyone in the community had adequate food and shelter (Acts 2:45; 4:34), personal support (Philippians 2:25) and financial resources (Philippians 4:18).   

In an increasingly post-Christian world, some might argue that the church should put all its energy in connecting with those outside the community. But does this external focus need to be at the expense of meeting the pastoral, and priestly, obligations within the Christian community?   

Can’t we be missional and priestly at the same time?   

Besides, the way that we care for one another within the church, might even offer a profound witness to those outside the church.   Today, the demands of modern life stretch us, and our people, more than most want to admit.   

The call to lead a community to care for its members remains a vital part of faithful Christian ministry.

For example, as more adults find themselves caring for their aging parents, who in the church can care for the caregivers?

Additionally, as political extremism becomes more prevalent, domestically, and abroad, perhaps the church can model a counter-narrative of trust, reconciliation, and compassion.  

Care that is Christian, is rooted in a genuine concern for one another’s welfare.    

Who is hurting in your church?
How can the congregation care for them?

Blessings to all this week,
Archdeacon Brian +