Biblical faith, evangelism on agenda at New Wineskins convocation
By Craig M. Kibler, The Layman Online, May 18, 2005
The future of Biblical faith and evangelism will be two of the issues discussed by delegates to a national convocation considering a “bold new design” for the Presbyterian Church (USA).
The New Wineskins Initiative convocation, with the theme “Following Christ into the 21st Century,” will be held June 15-18 at Christ Presbyterian Church in Edina, Minn.
Several workshop sessions will explore issues regarding Biblical faithfulness and evangelism that have been causing concern within the denomination. Those workshops are titled:
- “Biblical Maturity, Living Loved and Walking with Christ”
- “Changing Realities for Church Renewal and Evangelism”
- “Global Witness and Missions in a Changed World”
In its vision statement, the New Wineskins Initiative provides some background for these issues. It states: “We envision a connectional structure that …
- Serves the ministry and mission of the local congregation.
- Is united by a mutual commitment to a broadly evangelical and Biblical theology.
- Fosters relational networks based on ministry context as well as regional proximity.
- Provides accountability, support and discipline in a healthy, balanced, Biblical way.
- Is flexible and responsive to changing needs and cultural dynamics.
- Supports and encourages partnerships for cooperative mission between congregations.
- Encourages partnerships for ministry and mission with Christians of other denominations and parachurch ministries.
- Draws upon proven programs, curricula, and other resources available from across the broader body of Christ.
- Functions like a missions agency more than a regulatory agency.
Delegates also will work on draft documents that propose new statements of faith essentials and ethical imperatives, as well as a revised constitution that calls for greater flexibility, a new approach to leadership development at the congregational level and a pared-down, adaptive service structure at the national level.
While the convocation will include preaching, prayer and worship, as well as an international flavor with guests and speakers from Presbyterian churches around the world, the focus will be on how evangelical Presbyterians respond to what task force leaders called “grave concerns about the health and effectiveness of our present organization” in theology, mission and structure.
More information about the convocation is available on a special convocation Web site.
For further information, contact “Following Christ into the 21st Century” at 888-754-9693, or 7435 E. Oxford Ct., Wichita, Kan. 67226.