Classes

Well, I've completed the first week of course work, which is always the easiest because all we usually do is go over syllabi. I'm excited about the semester, and should be learning a lot!

Here are some things to chew on regarding church models:

1) Legacy churches. These churches are event-driven places that focus on large gatherings (usually every Sunday). Emphasis is placed on participation in the various sponsored activities.

2) Cell-based churches. These churches place importance on both small-group meetings and large assemblies. Events are still important, but equally granted is the emphasis on community.

3) House churches. These churches take place in a home, and they focus primarily on community and ministries within their spheres of influence.

4) Residential churches. These churches live life together. The focus is to commune together on almost all levels of living (eating, working, playing, etc.).

One can see differences and similarities between these. Some churches are hybrids of these four basic models. Shifts from "church" as "place" and "church" as "people" is more evident as one moves down the list.

A good way to see where you are (in your mind) would be to ask: Did I feel guilty about missing "church" Sunday? Or, do I have close friends around with whom I can share my life (job, house, meals) for extended periods of time?

Just food for thought....

Shalom,

Geoff

Classes

I've officially registered for classes; here they are: Spiritual Formation with David Wray, Introduction to Philosophy of Religion with Fred Aquino, Managing Conflict in Churches with Charles Siburt (pending), and Growth in Established Churches with Kent Smith.

I'm excited about the semester!

Shalom aleikhem (peace be upon you all)!

Jamie and I are moving into the mother-in-law suite behind my parents' house, and the process has been a little slower than we thought. STUFF adds up, and we're STILL unpacking. We're trying to get things in order, but the boxes keep showing up in odd places. Fortunately, however, we have cleared space in the closet and in our "bedroom" space, so at least we're making progress.

Other than that, we're loving TX, and this little apartment is growing on us all the time. Poncha Bear has been a little stressed with the move, but he and Lucy (my family's dog) have had some good quality time and have calmed down.

Jamie's doing well, but is still on the search for a job. We've hoped to hear from ACU, but so far, no nibbles. We'll keep trying and see where G-D leads.

I think the L-RD likes it when His children are in this position of dependence.

And so, the journey continues....