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...]

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...]

What’s on your summer reading list?  This issue explores titles new and old, offering reviews and recommendations to keep you engaged throughout the summer. Click here to read the issue in the Uberflip reader. Recommended reading We invited a variety of Presbyterians to share books that that have made an impression on them. Books in review Five in-depth book reviews will help you plan your summer reading. Books briefly noted Outlook book editor Roy Howard offers a glimpse of new books to add to your reading list. Krislund Camp and Conference Center Linda Vance shares the story of a Pennsylvania camp’s rejuvenation process. Apophasis Poetry by Paul Hooker … [Read more...]

Ministry and mission take on endless forms depending on the needs of the context and the gifts of those called upon to respond. While the content and context of ministry may vary widely, Christians are always commissioned and sent to serve. This issue of the Outlook tells the stories of Presbyterians working in the world in ways that share the Good News of Jesus Christ and support the abundant life God wills for all people. In addition, Leslie Scanlon reports on the role of per capita in paying for that which the church is called to do around the corner and around the globe. Click here to read the issue in the Uberflip reader. Recovery Café This Seattle community offers a compassionate, faith-based response to homelessness in their community.  Leslie Scanlon reports. Hands and Feet Midway to GA, here’s a look at the Hands and Feet initiative offering service partnerships in St. Louis and Baltimore. Partners in mission World Mission leaders are holding consultations asking: … [Read more...]