Inclusive Church
Radical Welcome Radical Welcome Session 4 The journey to Radical Welcome What type of congregation are we?
The inviting congregatio n Birds of a feather flock together. They also lock together. "This is who we are and we're not changing." You may not be white, but if you can "act" white, then you're in. The visitor is expected to become like the congregation, leaving outside their culture, beliefes and identity The congregation is mainly concerned with growth If a person with gold rings and in fine clothes comes into your assembly, and if a poor person in dirty clothes also comes in, and if you take notice of the one wearing the fine clothes and say, "Have a seat here, please," while to the one who is poor you say, "Stand there," or "Sit at my feet," James 2: 2-3
The inclusive congregatio n Anyone who comes to this church will be welcome. Marginalised people are offered a place inside the church but on the terms that those who have power in the church keep it and remain largely unchanged Newcomers may contribute to church life but this is not sustained and the main congregation is indifferent Only acceptable newcomers allowed: black graduates; gay bankers; young classical musicians; and articulate homeless people. Newcomers are not genuine partners. The church has began to hear, “welcome one another, therefore, just as Christ has welcomed you, for the glory of God" (Romans 15:7)
The radically welcoming congregatio n. The mission and purpose is for liberation, justice and reconciliation of all creation. The congregation is a community with open doors and open hearts; newcomers share in mission, leadership, worship and ministries. All voices and gifts are present. People of colour Poor people LGBT people childre n People with disabilities. elderly addicts homeless God has graciously, prodigally welcomed you, because it is in Gods very nature to seek you out and welcome you home when you feel the least worthy. Stephaney Spellman commenting on the Prodigal Son Luke 15: 11-32
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Inclusive Church