The Presbytery, the Strategic Plan and You Summer Series
From the General Presbyter
The 226th PC(USA) General Assembly was steeped in inclusivity, and it was wonderful to see and experience. Though most members of the PC(USA) are of European descent and over 50 years of age, other races and cultures were represented, as commissioners and delegates, attendees, musicians, speakers, officers and staff.
Here are some of my observations and beliefs about inclusivity. First let us talk about what it is not.
- Inclusivity is not tolerance. Do you want to be merely tolerated like a buzzing fly at a cookout?
- Inclusivity is not a forced belief. People hold beliefs that do not hold everyone in high regard. In fact, some would call others “sinful” or “wrong” or “abhorrent.” Sad, but true.
- Inclusivity is not an uncompromising demand. I would not expect a church where most members speak Korean or Urdu to completely change their worship into English because I visited. (Rev. Han from Korean United, did outline his sermon for me in English, but preached in Korean. Thank you!)
What is inclusivity?
- Inclusivity is Biblical. Google it! I found thirty-eight verses, many in the book of Revelation.
- Inclusivity is an opportunity. Not just for people being invited to the table, but to those doing the inviting. What can you learn? What can you understand?
- Inclusivity is a lifelong commitment which is why the Strategic Plan says “practice.” Yes, it can be unnerving to sit at table with an angry person who has felt excluded. But it is their anger and they own it. Your responsibility is to listen, share and be open to what the Holy Spirit is teaching in those moments.
Let’s try it.
