In a conversation I recently had with colleagues, we discussed how we might share more of our rich Reformed theology in our various contexts. One of these wise friends, Joseph Small, former director of the Office of Theology and Worship of the Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.), mentioned that when he met with those joining the church he covered four questions:
- Who is God, really?
- Who are we, honestly?
- What does God have to do with us?
- What do we have to do with each other?
These four questions offered an avenue to discuss important tenets of our theological tradition. Thus was born the idea to devote an issue of the Presbyterian Outlook to each of these four questions. We wanted these issues and articles within them to be used as Joseph Small had used them with his congregation. We wanted these issues and articles to spark conversation in local faith communities. So, we included in each issue discussion questions for the articles and invited you to share the articles and use the questions to explore these topics in greater depth.
Given that in many parts of the country, social distancing is still mandatory and meeting in person is not yet safe, we invite you to revisit these issues, articles and questions virtually. We know of congregations sharing these articles and then gathering virtually to talk about them on Wednesday evening or Sunday mornings or whenever they are able to meet. We hope these will be helpful resources during this challenging season. You can access these issues and articles on our website:
- pres-outlook.org/tag/who-is-god-really
- pres-outlook.org/tag/who-are-we-honestly
- pres-outlook.org/tag/what-does-god-have-to-do-with-us
- pres-outlook.org/tag/what-do-we-have-to-do-with-each-other
As always, thank you for reading.
Grace and peace,
Jill