Hello –
On Saturday we held our second Discipleship Group workshop. It was a rich, deeply affirming morning at St. Paul’s.
Everybody was from St. Paul’s, which turned out to be a great gift. There was at least one person from each of our six Discipleship Groups. This meant that, after a review of our history and of our scriptural and theological roots, we were able to exchange stories and practices with others who are also in these small groups in our congregation.
I think it’s fair to say that we all learned new things. Many, including myself, left inspired to keep going onward on this deep and counter-cultural path. We are not alone and, by grace, what we are doing is good.
There were also some new people there. Specifically, they were people who have been attracted to St. Paul’s precisely because we are a community that, without forsaking warmth, good humor and lightness, takes the core of our faith with such seriousness.
When we’re at our best, our spiritual rigor is beautiful and attractive.
Discipleship Groups ask a lot. None of us join a group as masters of all seven of the core practices of prayer, worship, service, giving, learning, listening and joining. But what came across Saturday is that we have found our way to a place that is both challenging and safe, that is both rigorous and merciful.
May God grant that the slow, deep and steady work of building Discipleship Groups at St. Paul’s goes from strength to strength.
If this work interests you, please email me. I’d be happy to connect either over the phone or in person. Or even better, talk to one of the dozens of people at St. Paul’s who are a part of this growing ministry.
Blessings,
Christopher
p: (415) 456-4842