2012 Synod Assembly Believe Workshop

Currently the Oregon Synod’s Believe Team is learning about, collaborating with, and sharing knowledge of, the many different ways churches are involved in their communities and the world.  We identified three words that have centered us in this; Challenge, Opportunity and Transformation.　

We know we are not alone in our journey.  We also know this involvement changes over time.  New relationships start, old relationships can be strengthened, and all of these changes move us both inside and outside the church buildings where we worship.　

Different involvement reveals different perspectives on what is happening here. Instead of simply seeing　this work as being for God, we can see this as our work with God.　

We can share God's work with many others who may, or may not, share our faith.  At our best, we move from the many "this or that" choices that may divide us and instead explore the many "this and that" opportunities that can build trust and transform all of us. 　

You or your congregation may be dreaming about, starting up, or involved in, the collaborative efforts this team wants to encourage and help.  The 2012 Believe workshops are invitations to collaborate and share successes, challenges and learnings with other local, grassroots ministries.  We will explore different approaches to move forward in these partnerships.

Participating in this discussion before and after the workshops is encouraged as well to tailor the workshops to what will be most helpful for the attendees.  And feel free to post your own challenge, opportunity and transformation stories here.