Ministry takes on a myriad of forms, changing over time as a result of circumstances seen and unseen. This issue of the Outlook examines how congregations and individuals respond to natural disasters — not just in the short run, but over many months and even years. Additionally, we take a look at the gifts and challenges of bivocational ministry. Click here to read the issue in the Uberflip reader. On this rock Following disasters, Presbyterians step in to bring hope and relief to communities in chaos and grief. In the eye of the hurricane Presbyterians serve “faceless people” in Puerto Rico after Hurricane Maria. A snapshot of biovocational ministry How can the church better care for the needs and callings of pastor serving bivocationally? 200 years of Outlook Here’s a glimpse of our 200th anniversary celebration in October. To give thanks Poetry for Thanksgiving by J. Barrie Shepherd … [Read more...]
Incarnations of Christian community — October 21, 2019
Disciples of Jesus Christ are called to live in ways that reflect the character of the One they follow. We are given the gift of community. We are to gather to worship, learn and be shaped for service. But what does that kind of incarnational community look like? How does transformation happen in ways that bear fruit? This issue of the Outlook tells stories of how incarnations of Christian community take shape. God's shaping of those communities is ongoing and not easy, but always infused with the power of the Spirit. Click here to read the issue in the Uberflip reader. Welcome to Bar Church In Seattle, people gather for spiritual conversation and connection in places that aren’t churches. Leslie Scanlon reports. Creating together at Coastland Commons A new worshipping community explores the role of creativity in worship. Leslie Scanlon reports. An agnostic’s guide to moral persuasion George Anderson identifies three areas to help strengthen pastors of politically diverse … [Read more...]
Women in ministry — October 7, 2019
Jesus called women to share in his ministry when he walked the earth and he still does today. Nonetheless, the role of women in the church has been debated and contested — and continues to evolve. This issue of the Outlook offers a snapshot of women in Presbyterian ministry past and present. Click here to read the issue in the Uberflip reader. The rise of women in the pulpit Margaret Towner was ordained in 1956 — 36 years after the first overture to ordain women went before General Assembly. Sherry Blackman recounts the history of women’s ordination. Women in ministry through the lens of former co-moderators Denise Anderson and Jan Edmiston share their experience of gifted women leading throughout the Presbyterian Church. The place and status of women In 1953, Hugh Kerr wrote this Reformed theological discussion of women in ministry for the Outlook. Responses to domestic violence Katrina Pekich-Bundy calls the church be active against sexual abuse and domestic violence. … [Read more...]
Ministry together — September 16, 2019
Where do we look for guidance and help? How do we imitate Christ and become a witness to others of God's character? In a culture fascinated with superheroes, how can the church share the saving power of God? This issue invites you to consider the importance and power of relationships: mentors, models and networks of support. Click here to read the issue in the Uberflip reader. Our need for superheroes The church can speak a word of hope into a world hungry for superheroes. A legacy of impactA ministry program at Austin College shapes future church leaders. Deep and wide New educational offerings from the Board of Pensions support wholeness. … [Read more...]
Taking risks, trying new things, granting permission — August 19, 2019
Culture is changing rapidly. Being and doing church cannot remain static while everything around us evolves. Nonetheless, our loyalty is to Jesus Christ alone. How, then, do we discern what is essential and what should be jettisoned? How do we experiment with mission and ministry in a way consistent with the gospel? This issue wrestles with these questions, shares stories of out-of-the-box thinking and offers an example of a major change navigated with grace. Click here to read the issue in the Uberflip reader. Social entrepreneurship and mission The Epiphany project of First Presbyterian Church in Atlanta awards grants to help local people serve the community. Leslie Scanlon reports. Turning the Holy Spirit loose in our polityPresbyterian polity offers freedom and flexibility, open to the innovative winds of the Holy Spirit. Stronger together Two Presbyterian agencies worked together to negotiate a healthy merger. … [Read more...]
Presbyterians & race — July 29, 2019
The Presbyterian Outlook marks a significant milestone this year. For 200 years the Presbyterian Outlook and its ancestor publications have been covering news of the church, commenting on contemporary issues and shaping conversations of faith. As we look back, we are sometimes chastened and sometimes heartened. In this issue we offer glimpses into how we and our ancestor publications covered issues of race. While far from exhaustive, we hope this offering is honest and, in turn, inspires other honest accounts and conversations on this critical topic in our current life together. Click here to read the issue in the Uberflip reader. Slavery and the genealogy of The Presbyterian Outlook Erskine Clarke examines the Outlook’s predecessor publications and their role in the discussion of slavery and racism. “Late we come” Louis Weeks reviewsThe Presbyterian Outlook and Southern Presbyterians’ witness on racial justice. Call me by name Larry Palmer, a ruling elder in Virginia, … [Read more...]
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