Held January 7-8, 2008
Our committee is well aware that we must always consider a close continuity between our work and the work of the Task Force on this subject that preceded us. Therefore, we spent time studying the survey and resulting comments generated by the previous Task Force in 2006. We were gratified by the indications of earnestness we observed, even in the face of uncertainty and confusion about synod’s statements. We also noted there seems to be little movement for professions of faith to take place at an earlier age than high school. We were challenged to develop a new paradigm for learning and studying in the church, provide new materials and tools, and promote multiple conversations between groups in the church.
Two major subjects that are clearly keys in our work provided a time for helpful study and dialog among us. First, we considered the fact that significant influences of contemporary culture are greatly affecting our youth and how they understand the Lord’s Supper and faith formation. Secondly, we spent some time noting the strategic value of a proper understanding of I Corinthians 11, observing there are several points of contention, and wondering how a full obedience to this passage could make the life of the church richer and fuller.
As at our last meeting, we spent an evening in conversation with six persons who could speak to us on the basis of their experience in leadership in the churches. We asked them to speak to us about the major struggles they observe and experience in their congregations with regards to youth, faith formation, profession of faith, and the sacraments. We also asked for information about the reactions of their congregation to the decisions of Synod 1995 and 2006. Their insights were highly valuable. In addition, they provided helpful suggestions on how to continue healthy conversations in church councils and other locations within the church. Again, we are confirmed in the vital importance of being engaged in such wide-ranging conversations.
We agreed that two tools will be very helpful if we can develop them early in our process. A committee website will be an effective avenue to promote an understanding of our work, provide informational matters for persons and congregations to discuss and study, and give a greater visibility to our work within the denomination. Plans were set in place to begin this development immediately, with the understanding the website will grow as our work progresses. We also plan to develop a network of pastoral and agency correspondents who could join us in our work. They would be able to provide helpful insight and assessment for us, and also be able to represent our work in the churches of their area. We will provide a list of possible correspondents to be approved by the Board of Trustees.
Finally, we turned our attention to the report we must prepare for the Synod of 2008. We realize that our first report to them will likely set the tone and trajectory for the pattern of our work. We look forward to conversations with synod, and are eager to engage synod ‘s delegates in some conversations with each other.
Howard Vanderwell, Secretary
