Episcopal Church Foundation Vestry Papers - for leading congregations

In the wake of horrific attacks in Paris, as well as recent attacks in Beirut and Bagdad, those who track and analyze terrorism say that ISIS (and other terrorist groups) will be able to recruit and radicalize more people with each "success" they have. Success.

Who is swayed by measures of success in terms of number of people murdered? Who would want to join in support of a “holy war,” the goals of which include wiping out freedoms of speech, religion, and the press, and the institution of vicious judgments on women, children, and all else who are deemed unworthy?

There are people in our midst so lost and defeated that they will grasp at anything that promises power and an overthrow of whatever they think is holding them down. This is not a message of condemnation of a particular religion. It is a call for us to live into our Baptismal Covenant, doing all we can to stand up for what we claim to be true.

Presiding Bishop Michael Curry encourages us to share our wonderful Episcopal faith tradition, and to live it. If ever there was a time for the Jesus movement, this is it.

When in a conversation with a person who is searching for answers to life's tough questions, imagine Jesus nudging you, whispering, "Tell her who you say I am."

Practice your "elevator speech" about who Jesus Christ is to you. Practice saying it out loud. Need help? Consider encouraging your congregation to focus some study on equipping folks to be ready to share their faith with others.

Advent and Christmas provide perfect opportunities to invite acquaintances who do not have a regular church home to come with you to your church. "Come see the children's pageant with me this Sunday," might be a very non-threatening opening. People are longing for deeper meaning in life and they might be more open to seeking during this time of year. 

Will you proclaim by word and example the Good News of God in Christ? It is a message this world needs to hear.

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