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World Council of Churches (WCC) ecumenical affirmation on mission and evangelism, prepared by the Commission on World Mission and Evangelism (CWME), approved as an official statement of the WCC by the Central Committee in Crete, 5 September 2012. Based on a CWME consultation in January 2013, Kochi, India, aiming at translating the new concepts brought by the affirmation into missional actions in local congregations, mission organizations and missiological formation, a practical guide has been produced by the commission. This book is meant to enable reflection, study and application of the new mission statement.
WHAT MAKES A COMMUNITY EXTRAORDINARY? When people live in community moved by the gospel and marked by the Spirit, great things happen. They commit to one another. They grieve together, sing together, eat, pray, and play together. They love, serve, honor, encourage, and provide for each other gladly. And they live on mission together. Hearts are healed, walls come down, and outsiders come in. No competition. No pretense. No vain conceit. Just full hearts breaking bread and giving freely. It is nothing short of amazing. Most of us live in a shadow of what God intended for us. Life in Community calls us into the light. Reclaiming Scripture’s stunning vision of gospel-centered community, it inspires us to live in love unbounded. Read it, live it, and join the movement: Help unleash the power of extraordinary community. 6-Week group study included.
Best Book of Spiritual Formation, from Byron Borger, Hearts and Minds Bookstore Have you joined a church or small group in hopes of experiencing real life change, only to be disappointed? Have you sat through inspiring sermons about what is possible when Christians gather together in mutually edifying relationships, only to recognize how cynical you have become after many failed attempts? Community may be one of the most over-promised, under-delivered aspects of the Christian life today. Individuals remain selfish and stuck in their ways. Communities become spiritually lifeless or even fall apart because we don't know how to experience transformation together. Transforming community does not come primarily from listening to inspiring preaching or adding another church program. It emerges as we embrace a shared commitment to the attitudes, practices and behaviors that open us to Christ in our midst. And that's where Life Together in Christ comes in. Reflecting on the story of the two disciples who meet Christ on the Emmaus Road, Ruth Haley Barton offers this interactive guide for small groups of spiritual companions who are ready to encounter Christ in transforming ways—right where they are on the road of real life.
Creating a Life Together by Diana Leafe Christian Pdf
Creating a Life Together is the only resource available that provides step-by-step practical information distilled from numerous firsthand sources on how to establish an intentional community. It deals in depth with structural, interpersonal and leadership issues, decision-making methods, vision statements, and the development of a legal structure, as well as profiling well-established model communities. This exhaustive guide includes excellent sample documents among its wealth of resources. Diana Leafe Christian is the editor of Communities magazine and has contributed to Body & Soul, Yoga Journal, and Shaman’s Drum, among others. She is a popular public speaker and workshop leader on forming intentional communities, and has been interviewed about the subject on NPR. She is a member of an intentional community in North Carolina.
Practicing the Way of Jesus by Mark Scandrette Pdf
Take a casual survey of how people practice their faith, and you might reasonably conclude that Jesus spent his life going door to door offering private lessons, complete with chalkboard and pop quizzes. We think about God in the comfort of our own minds, in isolation from one another; meanwhile the world waits for a people to practice the way of Jesus together. Mark Scandrette contends that Jesus has in mind something more lively for us: not a classroom so much as a kingdom, where our formation takes place not only in our heads but in our hearts and our bodies, and in the company of one another, in a way that blesses the world we've been entrusted with. In Practicing the Way of Jesus Scandrette draws from his experience as a spiritual director and leader of an intentional community, as well as the best contemporary thinking on kingdom spirituality, to paint a picture of life lived together, in the way of Jesus--which is another way of saying life lived to the full.
Re-imagining Life Together in America by Catherine T. Nerney,Hal Taussig Pdf
Well written and highly accessible, this book interweaves a thorough review of developments in Christian community from the first century to the present with powerful new discoveries in scriptural, theological, and historical research that has uncovered deep communal strands in the foundational literature and notions of Christianity. The result is a profound call for the renewal of Christian community and churches as crucial models and inspirations for the new search for wholeness in America.
How to Make Decisions Together in Married Life by Dr. Jennifer Sherine Pdf
How to Make Decisions Together in Married Life Introduction: Making Decisions Together in Married Life Marriage is a beautiful journey of two individuals coming together to share their lives, dreams, and aspirations. As partners, couples embark on a lifelong adventure filled with joy, challenges, and the fulfillment of shared goals. One of the most crucial aspects of this journey is making decisions together as a united front. In every marriage, decisions must be made - big or small, significant or mundane. From financial matters and career choices to family planning and lifestyle changes, the choices couples face can shape their future and the strength of their bond. The ability to navigate these decisions as a team, with mutual respect and consideration for each other's needs and desires, is the cornerstone of a healthy and harmonious marriage. This book, "Making Decisions Together in Married Life, " aims to equip couples with the necessary tools and insights to enhance their decision-making process. We will explore practical strategies that foster effective communication, understanding, and compromise between partners. By mastering these skills, couples can build a stronger foundation for their relationship and cultivate a sense of unity that will withstand the tests of time. Throughout this book, we will delve into the importance of open and honest communication, active listening, and empathetic understanding. We will learn how to identify and harmonize individual values and priorities to create shared goals that reflect the essence of the partnership. We will discuss the significance of flexibility and compromise, recognizing that both partners bring unique perspectives and strengths to the table. Conflict is an inevitable part of any relationship, and we will discover constructive ways to address disagreements while preserving the love and respect between spouses. Moreover, this book will guide couples in navigating long-term planning, envisioning their future together, and the joy of achieving milestones as a united front. We will examine ways to balance responsibilities, embrace equality, and support each other's growth and personal development. At times, external challenges or complexities may arise, and we will explore the value of seeking advice and support from trusted sources, such as friends, family, or professional counselors. By developing a strong support network, couples can find reassurance in times of uncertainty and strengthen the bond they share. Lastly, we will emphasize the significance of celebrating decisions, learning from mistakes, and expressing gratitude for each other's contributions. Acknowledging the efforts put into decision-making fosters a sense of appreciation and fosters a positive atmosphere within the marriage. Remember that no marriage is perfect, and the journey of decision-making together is a continuous process of growth and learning. With dedication, compassion, and a shared commitment to building a thriving partnership, couples can navigate life's challenges hand in hand and create a love that lasts a lifetime. Let us embark on this enlightening journey of making decisions together in married life, knowing that with each step taken in unison, our bonds will only grow stronger. Chapter 1: Communication and Active Listening Effective communication is the bedrock of a successful marriage. It goes beyond just exchanging words; it involves understanding and connecting with your partner on a deeper level. In this chapter, we will explore the vital components of communication and delve into the art of active listening. 1.1 The Power of Communication: Communication is not merely about conveying information; it is about expressing feelings, thoughts, and desires in a way that fosters understanding and emotional intimacy. It involves both verbal and non-verbal cues, such as body language, facial expressions, and tone of voice. When partners communicate openly and honestly, they create an environment of trust and vulnerability, enabling them to share their joys, concerns, and challenges. 1.2 Barriers to Effective Communication: Despite its significance, communication can be hindered by various barriers. These may include distractions, preconceived notions, defensiveness, and unresolved conflicts. Identifying these obstacles is crucial to overcoming them and promoting healthy dialogue between partners. 1.3 Active Listening: The Art of Understanding: Active listening is the cornerstone of effective communication. It involves giving your partner undivided attention, suspending judgment, and demonstrating empathy. By actively listening to your spouse, you validate their emotions and experiences, showing that their thoughts and feelings are valued. 1.4 Techniques for Active Listening: - Maintain eye contact: Establishing visual connection demonstrates attentiveness and encourages openness in your partner. - Provide verbal and non-verbal cues: Nodding, using affirming phrases, and mirroring emotions convey that you are engaged and understanding. - Paraphrase and summarize: Rephrase what your partner has shared to ensure you correctly comprehend their perspective. - Avoid interrupting: Allow your partner to express themselves fully before responding, as interruptions can be frustrating and counterproductive. - Express empathy: Acknowledge your partner's feelings and experiences, even if you don't necessarily agree with them. 1.5 Creating a Safe Space for Communication: To foster open communication, partners must feel safe expressing themselves without fear of judgment or reprisal. This involves cultivating an atmosphere of mutual respect and understanding, where both individuals feel heard and valued. Remember that disagreements are natural in any relationship, and addressing them constructively can strengthen the bond between partners. 1.6 Honesty and Transparency: Honesty is the foundation of trust in a marriage. Encouraging open and transparent communication enables both partners to share their thoughts and emotions freely, leading to a deeper emotional connection. Conclusion: Effective communication and active listening are essential skills in any marriage. By embracing open dialogue, validating each other's feelings, and actively listening, couples can strengthen their emotional bond and create a thriving partnership. In the next chapter, we will explore how to identify individual values and priorities to establish a strong foundation for making decisions together.
It is no secret that isolation is one of the key ailments of our age. But less explored is the way the church as it is frequently practiced contributes to this isolation instead of offering an alternative. With the help of Dietrich Bonhoeffer, this book argues for a renewed vision of the church community as a theological therapy to cultural, moral, and sociological isolation. It offers an account of how familiar church practices, such as Scripture reading, worship, prayer, and eating, contribute to community formation in the body of Christ.
A stunning photo essay paired with 100 stories of members gives a rare glimpse into an intentional community that has stood the test of time. Yes, it is possible to create a society where there are no rich or poor, where children and elderly are welcome, where everyone has work and no one lives alone. Meet 100 individuals from diverse backgrounds who have ventured everything to build a life together where everyone belongs and everyone can contribute. A cross-section of the Bruderhof community's international and intergenerational membership, they have pooled their income, possessions, talents, and energy to take care of one another and to reach out to others. Defying five generations of naysayers, this is a community that works. As they reflect on 100 years of community, Bruderhof members reveal why they personally have chosen this radical was of life and share insights they have gleaned along the way. With photography by acclaimed British photojournalist Danny Burrows, this book is a celebration of what is possible when people take a leap of faith and dare a change. It's a window into a lived example that will inspire and encourage anyone working to build a more just, peaceful, and sustainable future.
This book explores the joy of living together, especially for married couples. It emphasizes the importance of pausing when love and relationships begin to strain, as this reflection can illuminate the true meaning of love and togetherness. Losing inner confidence and trust, whether among citizens or couples, is akin to trying to save a dying tree—it requires immense effort to restore its vitality. As Tasneem Harneed said, “Learn character from trees, values from roots, and change from leaves.” To embody these values, one must nurture the tree, creating greenery to sustain life’s lessons. Live like a thriving tree, always fostering an environment where everyone can enjoy life.
“A lively survey…her research and insights make us conscious of how we, today, use books.”—John Sutherland, The New York Times Book Review Two centuries before the advent of radio, television, and motion pictures, books were a cherished form of popular entertainment and an integral component of domestic social life. In this fascinating and vivid history, Abigail Williams explores the ways in which shared reading shaped the lives and literary culture of the eighteenth century, offering new perspectives on how books have been used by their readers, and the part they have played in middle-class homes and families. Drawing on marginalia, letters and diaries, library catalogues, elocution manuals, subscription lists, and more, Williams offers fresh and fascinating insights into reading, performance, and the history of middle-class home life. “Williams’s charming pageant of anecdotes…conjures a world strikingly different from our own but surprisingly similar in many ways, a time when reading was on the rise and whole worlds sprang up around it.”—TheWashington Post
In this fresh approach to Christian spirituality, John Driver shows that the spirituality of the disciples and the early Christian church included every dimension of life. Grounded in the example of Jesus himself, this holistic approach to spirituality finds expression in the visible witness of the Christian community, and in the daily lives of faithful Christians who seek to embody Christ's presence in the world in service to others. This approach to Christian spirituality was recovered in a remarkable way by the radical reformers of the sixteenth century - the Anabaptists - and it continues to find expression among a wide variety of Christian groups around the world today. Life Together in the Spirit will inspire, challenge, and encourage you to experience the presence of the Spirit in all of its dimensions. This edition, revised and expanded with responses and reflections from church leaders and scholars around the world, is the seventh publication in the "Global Anabaptist-Mennonite Shelf of Literature," an initiative of Mennonite World Conference. Contributors include Mvwala C. Katshinga (Democratic Republic of Congo), Christina Asheervadam (India), Rafael Zaracho (Paraguay), Hermann Woelke (Uruguay), Paulus Pan (Taiwan), Patricia Urueña (Colombia), and Nellie Mlotshwa (Zimbabwe).
Bringing Fossils to Life by Donald R. Prothero Pdf
One of the leading textbooks in its field, Bringing Fossils to Life applies paleobiological principles to the fossil record while detailing the evolutionary history of major plant and animal phyla. It incorporates current research from biology, ecology, and population genetics, bridging the gap between purely theoretical paleobiological textbooks and those that describe only invertebrate paleobiology and that emphasize cataloguing live organisms instead of dead objects. For this third edition Donald R. Prothero has revised the art and research throughout, expanding the coverage of invertebrates and adding a discussion of new methodologies and a chapter on the origin and early evolution of life.
