An invitation to critique and debate the current state of the church, challenging its assumptions and calling for a reformation. The speaker, Matt Skolnik, expresses his deep love for the church while highlighting the need to question inherited power dynamics and fundamental beliefs. He references historical contexts, such as Martin Luther's 97 Theses, to emphasize the importance of challenging assumptions. Skolnik calls for substantial debates within the church and invites participation in what he terms "Our 97," with the goal of fostering a more faithful and just Christian community. The description concludes with a prayer for unity and humility in pursuing positive change.

In this episode, the panel delves into an engaging conversation about power in the church and society, featuring insights from Lindsay Anderson, Ajah Hales, Heather Johnston, and Matt Skolnik. The discussion covers the church's historical relationship with power, the struggle with white supremacy in the Presbyterian denomination, and rethinking monetary stewardship. Practical steps for addressing power issues, including developing genuine and reciprocal relationships, having mentors, and letting go of white guilt, are also explored. 00:12 Introduction to Power in the Church and Society 00:30 Historical Context: Constantine and the Church's Struggle with Power 01:20 Panel Discussion: Historical Misuse of Power and White Supremacy 01:59 Opening Prayer by Lindsay 02:42 Introduction of Panelists 02:51 Panelists' Experiences and Initial Thoughts on Power 05:10 The Struggle with White Supremacy in the Presbyterian Denomination 06:05 Theological Reflections on Power and Control 10:03 Financial Stewardship and Racial Capitalism 11:36 Challenges of Small Churches and Pastoral Leadership 12:30 Confusing Control with Power 15:00 The Role of Wealth and Privilege in the Church 21:19 The Church's Relationship with Empire and Oppression 26:32 Power in Numbers and the Future of the Church 26:59 Addressing Racism and Social Justice in the Church 32:46 Understanding Leadership and Society's Expectations 33:10 Biblical Insights on Pride and Help 34:12 The Spiritual Cost of Oppression 36:39 Personal Stories and Reflections on Racism 38:59 Practical Steps for Anti-Racism Work 39:45 The Role of White Guilt in Anti-Racism 42:01 The Importance of Genuine Relationships 45:06 Building Racial Resilience 47:31 Addressing Poverty and Control 55:36 Final Thoughts and Actionable Steps 57:19 Closing Prayer for Unity and Compassion

In this episode, Matt sits down with Sara Dingman, the executive of the Synod of Lincoln Trails in Indiana and Illinois. Together, they delve into the topic of self-imposed constraints within the church. As their conversation unfolds, they explore the idea of the Presbyterian Church supporting pastors in starting their own businesses as a way to foster community relationships, develop organizational leadership skills, and fund ministry. Sara and Matt both share a belief in finding a balanced approach to addressing any concerns about the intersection of business and the church. What are your thoughts on this? Who do you know who has business and leadership skills who could help design a training? Who do you know that can help navigate resources that we already have that could help? But more importantly, what is God calling us to do? Sit back, start praying, and share this conversation with others. Let's get started! 00:00 Introduction and Welcome 00:03 Introducing Sarah Dingman and the Topic of Self-Imposed Constraints 00:56 Exploring Self-Imposed Constraints in the Church 03:46 Identifying and Overcoming Upper Limits 05:17 Coaching and Breaking Boundaries 08:10 Rethinking Pastoral Roles and Assumptions 11:28 The Concept of Multi-Vocational Ministry 16:35 The Benefits and Challenges of Multi-Vocational Ministry 24:11 Encouraging Entrepreneurial Spirit in Pastors 29:34 Conclusion and Final Thoughts #pcusa #reformation #constraints #limits #coaching #pastoralroles #business #church #businessandchurch #amish #organizationalleadership #multivocationalministry

#prayersforreformation #pcusa #globalchurch #reformation #presbyterian #prayer

Join us for an intimate conversation among two elders and two pastors as they navigate the challenges of a declining congregation. This episode addresses crucial questions on when a church should consider ending its ministry, honoring individual pain, and tending to the church's needs.

The discussion includes reflections on the significance of adapting to modern times, the role of traditional practices, and the importance of a community-focused mission.

Featuring insights from local leaders and a prayerful approach, this episode is a must-watch for any church grappling with similar issues. Don't miss out on this honest, encouraging, and thought-provoking dialogue.

00:00 Introduction and Overview

00:57 Opening Prayer

01:27 Meet the Elders and Pastors

01:47 Challenges Facing the Congregation

02:27 Personal Stories and Reflections

04:24 Questions of Church Continuation

04:43 Minister's Perspective

06:12 Mixed Emotions and Family Ties

07:01 Struggles with Modern Church Dynamics

08:08 Seeking Spiritual Growth

10:27 Balancing Tradition and Change

12:38 When to Say Goodbye

14:55 Community and Commitment

27:13 Final Reflections and Prayer

36:44 Closing Remarks and Resources

In this episode of 'Presbyterian Church Reforming,' host Matt Skolnik discusses the significant changes taking place within the Presbyterian denomination, inspired by Phyllis Tickle's concept of the Great Emergence, a 500-year reformation. Featuring a panel of church elders sharing their journeys of transformation, boldness, and renewed hope, the discussion emphasizes the need to move away from old structures and embrace a new foundation for future generations. The episode concludes with an invitation to participate in Prayer Lab, a training designed to encourage spontaneous prayer leadership within congregations.

#PCUSA #Reformaiton #boldfaith

Join host Matt Skolnik in this episode of PC Reforming as he engages with Presbyterian leaders Kathy Nice and Lisa Allgood from Ohio in a thought-provoking discussion about self-imposed constraints within the church. They explore how historical traditions and practices can unintentionally limit the church's mission and propose bold visions for Reformation. Topics include the balance between structure and spiritual movement, the vital role of disciple-making, addressing the overemphasis on buildings and academics, and the passion of young church leaders. This engaging conversation aims to inspire the Presbyterian community to rethink and embrace a more dynamic and spiritually alive identity. 00:00 Introduction to PC Reforming 00:51 Understanding Self-Imposed Constraints 01:30 Encouragements for Reformation 04:14 Prayer and Introduction to the Gathering 05:26 Discussion on Church Constraints 10:20 The Role of Buildings in Ministry 12:09 Balancing Mission and Ministry 16:21 Language and Terminology in the Church 22:59 Reflections on General Assembly 30:45 Final Thoughts and Closing Prayer

http://pc-reforming.org

#PCUSA #Reformation

PC Reforming is an informal collection of Presbyterians who collaborate across the PCUSA to draft and submit impactful policy papers and proposals for upcoming General Assemblies that aim to inspire, support, and urge the church to fully embrace its calling in the next 500 year reformation. Our Guiding Principles Include: -Remain firmly rooted in the Reformed Tradition while being open to God's possibilities and call. -Faithfully be as discontinuous to the modern church as Luther and Calvin were to the power structures of their day. -Challenge and refine our most basic assumptions regarding ministry, worship, and Christian community. The Team: If you have a heart to help reshape the church for the future, you are on the team. We ask that you work with local PCUSA churches and mid-councils to make a difference. Reach out to national staff for advice, and check back here to see what others are doing so that we have a smooth package of proposals for GA 227.

http://pc-reforming.org