EN: I believe the proposal from the Form of Government Task Force is much needed and long overdue. Corporations and institutional entities have been adapting to a changing social context for the last several decades. We, however, have remained entrenched in a 1950s corporate model — a model corporations have long since abandoned. A one-size-fits-all approach no longer works in business, and it no longer works for the Presbyterian Church.
The FOG proposal will give governing bodies (councils) much more flexibility in fulfilling their tasks and helping us to become a missional church. Our current Form of Government has turned into a Manual of Operations rather than a collection of our guiding principles. We need it to shift from telling us “how we have to do things” to “what we need to be doing.” The proposal is solid and I desire to see its adoption.
TPO: What do you believe are the causes of conflict in the PC(USA), and what do you hope this General Assembly will do to help bring resolution?
EN: Be it the regulatory functions that have overtaken … the Book of Order, debates about ordination, or virtually any other issue of contention, our denomination reflects a basic lack of trust in one another. We do not trust the integrity of one another’s faith. We do not trust fellow sisters and brothers within congregations and presbyteries to make faithful decisions based upon our understanding of Scripture, our confessional heritage, or the commands of Christ. We no longer trust that we all have the best interest of the Church at heart.
There is no policy statement or official action of the Assembly that can restore trust. Trust is earned and trust is given. I hope the Assembly can envision, and members will respond, to opportunities for more direct dialogue around our issues of disagreement. We are tired of talking “at” people. We have to be able to talk “with” one another.
TPO: In your opinion, what is the most urgent need in the PC (USA) over the next five years?
EN: In most congregations young adults are missing. This challenge can only be addressed at the local level. We must broaden our horizons to ministry beyond just the “traditional family.”
We have to address technology. I am not an expert in social networks and devices, but am trying to learn. Young adults are swimming in the water of Web 3.0. If we are communicating in 20th century modes, young adults will never walk through the front door. We have to adapt to this reality — immediately.
Young adults are looking for hands-on mission. They want to swing hammers and cook meals. I think every Presbyterian congregation in the next year must engage in at least one new hands-on mission effort, giving opportunity for young adults to put their faith in action.
We must begin offering answers to the questions people outside our congregations are asking.
TPO: What are your goals for your moderatorial years, and what strengths do you bring to the task?
EN: I bring one simple goal — to be a positive voice for a positive future. I want to bring news to our members of the many good things happening within the Presbyterian Church. While the Assembly must deal with overtures that have been sent, I’d like to leave the Assembly ready to talk about mission and service in the name of Christ rather than just sexuality.
I believe all Presbyterians seek to serve Christ. I value the contributions everyone brings to the table and can listen to alternative viewpoints. I am ready to roll up my sleeves and work. I lead an average midwestern church struggling with the common issues that face so many of us. I have been serving with people in the pews for 19 years. I rejoice with those who rejoice, and weep with those who weep. I believe these credentials are my greatest strength. O
