Fellowship Christian Reformed Church, Edmonton, AB
Report from Betty Grit:
The congregation of Fellowship Christian Reformed Church, a few visitors, and some students from The Kings University College gathered for an all day retreat as the first step in a year long process of worship renewal. The day began with worship led by members of all ages. Roy Berkenbosch challenged us to celebrate and remember our baptism in all of life.
The 2008 Worship Renewal Grant project will help them review and assess past worship practices in the congregation and renew worship through liturgies that demonstrate congregational values of inclusivity, collaboration, creativity and social justice. Following worship we engaged together in round table discussion related to questions developed to help the congregation explore these topics. Youth were present at almost every table and were encouraged to voice their ideas. Prayers were offered for personal and corporate renewal and thanksgiving for the enthusiastic participation of worshipers of all ages in this process. We concluded the day with the celebration of the Lord’s Supper and our unity in Christ.
A conversation with the grant leadership team on Saturday evening provided insight into the congregation. They have chosen not to have a pastor but to invite guest preachers each week. Members of the congregation plan the liturgy and provide pastoral care for each other. Together we made plans for the retreat and prayed for the process of renewal that is beginning.
Sunday evening the leadership team again gathered to reflect on the day. Facilitators at each table recorded highlights of the discussion. Project director, Rebecca Warren, expressed gratitude for the extensive input and information gathered in such a short amount of time. She later wrote, “There is so much here, we could spend the rest of the grant year just processing this info and moving on some of the ideas.”
We are praying for wisdom and encouragement for this congregation and all who are engaged in worship renewal.
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