Week of August 29: Book Study

The world of technology is a blessing and a challenge don't you think?  I am experiencing a variety of feelings and thoughts about our online study/discussion.  I am hearing from many of you that the books are stimulating and enjoyable.  I am not hearing about this online; however.  Most of the discussions still take place face to face or over the phone.  I am not sure what that says about technology?  Is the mode of conversation challenging?  Are you finding the blog difficult to navigate?  Do you enjoy checking the blog for the reflection questions?  Would love to hear from more of you on the blog!

Christianity for the Rest of Us:  Chapter 5
On pg 78 Bass says "for those of us seeking another way, between fundamentalisma nd secularism, a way of pilgrim faith, finding community is not easy."  Do you agree?  How hard is it to find a community to journey with in this pilgrim faith?  Have you found yours?  If so, what made it a hospitable place for you?  What in chapter 5 spoke to you, positively or negatively?

41 Days of Audacious Living
What day are you on?  What affirmations have you been using?  Are you finding yourself to be more attentive to the Spirit throughout your day, because of the readings or affirmations?

Peace,
Pastor Deb

Book Study Week of 8/15

How is the reading going?  Are you enjoying the books?  Any random thoughts?  Please post any thoughts so we can converse.  Below are a few questions to spark your imagination.
From Christianity for the Rest of Us:  Chapter 4
1.  With which image do you most strongly identify: returnee, exile, immigrant, convert, or villager?  Does another image better describe your faith journey?
2.  Does your congregation have an impact on your spiritual journey--or do you grow and change primarily outside the context of church?
From 41 days of Audacious Living
1.  Are you using the daily affirmations?  Do the affirmations help you stay aware of your faith journey throughout the day.  Do they change your attitude or self image in any way?
2.  Of all the daily lessons so far, which one challenges you the most?

For next week:  Continue the daily readings in 41 days and read chapter 5 in Christianity for the Rest of Us.
Peace!

Online Book Study Week 3

Author Bruce Epperly differs with Rick Warren in his understanding of how God moves in the world and our lives.  On pg 21 he says, "In cotnrast to Rick Warren's view of God, I do not believe that God determines everything in advance but that we are invited to be God's companions in creating a future that is, to some degree, open and unfinished."  Do you agree with Bruce Epperly?  If so, in what way do you see yourself or your church "partnering" or "companioning" with God?
Next reading: pgs 28-35

Book 2: Christianity for the Rest of Us:  1.  How would a congregation that emphasizes practice differ from one that emphasizes purity?
2.  Do you think that faith is about asking questions or finding answers?
Next Reading: Chapter 4

To comment, post your remarks in the box below.