The Reconciliation Ministry at Hope Church is called upon to be a mindful steward of our theme to provide provisions for the journey, welcome all, connect with and witness to the community; and engender deep engagement. “This ministry will focus on Hope Church’s commitment to reconciliation, peace, and justice.” In 2010, the consistory added this statement of vision to stand along our current mission statement: “Hope Church is committed to multicultural diversity as an expression of our faith in Jesus Christ. This commitment is integral to our life as a community of faith and to our work as peacemakers and reconcilers in God’s world.”
The Reconciliation Ministry encourages each of our ministries to engage with diversity and inclusivity by offering support and resources. We provide leadership for events like the Season of Reconciliation and Martin Luther King celebrations. We also discern appropriate advocacy and actions for issues facing our community such as immigration reform.
This group will coordinate the work of Restorative Circles both within and beyond the Hope Church community as a tool for reconciliation. Furthermore, the ministry seeks to build relationships with organizations within our community who are working at justice and reconciliation.
The Reconciliation Ministry provides opportunities for involvement throughout the year. Recently, a photo-text exhibit featuring well-known Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgendered and allied clergy was on display at Hope Church entitled, We Have Faith. A public open house was held with comments from Pastor Jill and other community leaders.
The Reconciliation Ministry, along with Outreach and Hospitality, has been an institutional home for Room for All, a collection of RCA churches that openly portray our inclusivity. The Reconciliation Ministry has recently been a connection point for a newly formed community forum highlighting opportunities for bridging racial divides as well, Justice for Some or Justice for All?
In the month of January we will be celebrating the Season of Reconciliation where as a congregation we increase our focus on issues surrounding reconciliation and our place in this world. As part of the Season of Reconciliation, the following events and opportunities abound:
- The Reconciliation Ministry has sought congregation members to share their witness to reconciliation.
- The Reconciliation Ministry with the Worship, Prayer and Spirituality Ministry, welcome “In Harmony” to worship with us on January 26, 2014.
- In combination with Adult Education, we will be offering the following lessons:
- Jan. 12: Making Sense of God’s Violent Actions in the Old Testament
- Jan. 19: Culture of Violence Part I, with guest speaker, Chris Dorsey from Western Theological Seminary.
- Jan. 26: Culture of Violence Part II, with guest speaker, Chris Dorsey from Western Theological Seminary.
- Feb. 2: Family Violence, with guest speaker, Laura Kitchen, from the Center for Women in Transition.
There may be other opportunities announced throughout the season, please be mindful of bulletin announcements. More information will also be in the January newsletter.
The Reconciliation Ministry is blessed to have a continuing spirit of discussion and deep thought and welcome any congregation members to join. If you have any questions you may contact Reconciliation members: John Koch (chair), Ann McKnight, Tom Arendshorst, Jane Dickie, Paul Smith, and Brian Yurk.