7/7 Discipleship Being a Christian in our working lives Session 3

Christianity and our workplaces Communities rather than buildings

Where do you work? Make a list of as many workplaces, past and present, of which you have experience. If you have worked in several similar places (eg schools or offices) list them separately. Choose one of these (or more if you have time) and reflect on it under the following headings (as given in your booklet):

Ways in which I feel supported in my workplace Tensions and frustrations in my workplace The underlying values or ‘ethos’ of my workplace The overarching purpose or ‘mission’ of my workplace

Compare notes Are there any common themes, eg in the ways you are able to feel supported in the workplace, or in the frustrations? How are the values and/or purpose of your organisation reflected in the way decisions are made? Is your Christian faith challenged by your workplace experience? How does your Christian faith support you at work?

What does the Bible say? In groups, read and discuss the suggested passage(s). Be prepared to feedback briefly to the whole group.

Some questions to consider (and others may occur to you): What does this passage teach us about God’s vision for society? How can we discern the effects of the Holy Spirit at work in our communities? How can we be channels of the Spirit or bringers of the Kingdom into our workplace communities?

Back to work! Go back to your reflections on page 3 of your booklet (the one divided into four sections) for your workplace. In blue pen, put a ring round all those things that you consider to be evidence of kingdom values or fruits of the spirit. In red pen, put a ring round anything you see as being in need of the redemptive work of Christ. Compare notes with your neighbour(s). Is there any action that you personally feel called to take in order to turn some of the red rings into blue ones?

Suggestions for the week You might like to spend some more time with the workplace (?faithplace) reflections that you did earlier. Maybe reflect on some other workplaces if you had not yet had time to do so. You could also study some more of the Bible passages given in the handout and take your reflections into prayer. In both cases, add your reflections to your journal if you like.

Closing worship ….