The opioid epidemic. Gun violence. A local tragedy. All across the country, congregations are responding to issues in the headlines that impact their communities. This issue of the Outlook examines how Presbyterian churches are addressing national issues in ways particular to their local contexts and the complicated dynamics of deciding how to act in faith. Click here to read the issue in the Uberflip reader. Addiction and recovery Presbyterians are responding to the opioid epidemic in many thoughtful and crucial ways.  Here’s how a few congregations are meeting their community’s needs.  Leslie Scanlon reports. Leaves of the tree A community uses worship service and the planting of a tree to respond to gun violence in Savannah, Georgia. Communities in transition The practice of organizational imagination can help develop new forms of communal life and Christian discipleship. A family systems approach to parking lot meetingsFew things in ecclesial life have the potential … [Read more...]

Can a Reformed understanding of the priesthood of all believers transform how Presbyterians live?  If every encounter is recognized as God at work among us – bringing priests to us – and enabling us by God’s Spirit to be priests to others, just think how energized life could be! This issue explores what it means to live this calling in community. Click here to read the issue in the Uberflip reader. A priest at every elbow Donald McKim considers the vision that all Christians are priests. A letter to watch over you Andrew Taylor-Troutman writes letters to each child about to be baptized in the congregation he serves. Serving the world at a truck stop Sherry Blackman gives a glimpse into ministry at a truck stop in New Jersey where she serves as chaplain. Living sermons Three ruling elders share stories of discipleship and faithful living outside church walls. … [Read more...]

Living in community is a gift, a responsibility, a challenge. What does it meant to love one’s enemies? To deal gracefully with those whose default mode is "no"? To do your part, but not do more than is healthy for yourself or the system? This issue looks through various angles at how to have a healthy, faithful life together. Click here to read the issue in the Uberflip reader. What does Jesus mean by “love your enemies”? Thomas Currie digs deep into one of Jesus’ toughest commandments. Dealing lovingly with the roadblockers Christian leaders are called to cultivate and practice empathy, even with those who say “no” to everything. Over- or under-function? Family systems theory offers resources for ministry leaders seeking a healthy life balance. GA overturesHere’s a round-up of overtures going to the 223rdGeneral Assembly. Inferno Poetry by Paul Hooker … [Read more...]