Nurturing Curiosity
"So why are you bringing Nadia to Milwaukee?" This question by a reporter from the Journal Sentinel also echoes in the minds of members of the presbytery, and other denominations in our area. At our September 27th Presbytery Gathering, we will feature Nadia Bolz-Weber and Shawna Bowman. The gathering will take place in the beautiful and inspiring space of the Milwaukee Art Museum. The day's program is entitled, "What Are You Looking For?" The theme is taken from the gospel of John where Jesus, after seeing some disciples following him, turns and asks them what are they looking for?
Both Nadia and Shawna are immensely popular. Shawna has done artwork for General Assembly and NEXT church. Nadia is a popular author and preacher. At the presbytery gathering, as Nadia is teaching and preaching, Shawna will be creating a banner sized painting that reflects what is happening in the moment. This painting will then be hung in congregations across the presbytery.
Nadia and Shawna’s presence is not a random decision. This year our presbytery meetings have challenged us to use improvisation in ministry (Comedy Sportz) and brainstorming in planning (Laurie Ferguson).In November we will learn about mission experimentation through New Worshiping Communities. The goal of these gatherings is to stimulate blooming of the imagination in the presbytery. We are nurturing curiosity through the arts, improvisation, and creative thinking.
Presbyterians face many challenges as a denomination that include declining membership, homogenous demographics, deteriorating buildings, and an aging population. The solution to these challenges cannot be found in the ecclesial toolbox we are accustom to using to fix problems. We will have to create our way out. We must imagine new ways to do ministry that push against our current edges and break through current limitations.
This is why we are bringing Nadia to Milwaukee. She has a fresh expression of the gospel that is grace-full and appealing to young adults and other non-churched audiences. We need to hear what she has to say, and continue to learn ways to be the future church. Shawna will open our imagination with her artistic expression. It will be a wonderful gathering of sharing, learning, and fellowship. All are welcome to come, and be inspired.
(For more information on the Presbytery of Milwaukee September 27th Gathering click here.)