Kingdom Tide

Butler Church bulletin available

2010-12-16T12:26:00.000-08:00

A preview of this Sunday's (12/19) Butler Church bulletin is now available. To view, click here.

Multifaith Exchange this Sunday (12/19)

2010-12-14T08:47:00.000-08:00

Mark your calendars as the Fresno Multifaith Exchange will be visiting the Unitarian-Universalist Church of Fresno on Sunday, December 19th from 3:00 to 5:00 pm.

The church is located at 2672 E. Alluvial (between Chestnut and Willow - map)

Note of interest:
In April, 2007, this congregation voted to become a UU Green Sanctuary.

“The Mission of the Green Sanctuary Committee is to help the members of the congregation build a connection between spiritual consciousness and environmentally sustainable practice in their individual and congregational lives.”

This initiative included the construction of a "green" sanctuary and kitchen, the installation of a solar array and the implementation of an education and practice program focusing on environmental sustainability.

Butler Church bulletin available

2010-12-03T08:44:00.000-08:00

A preview of this Sunday's (12/5) Butler Church bulletin is now available. To view, click here.

Kingdom Tide 'embrace' this Sunday (12/5)

2010-12-01T21:48:00.000-08:00

Please join us as we embrace the anticipation and express a longing for the coming presence of the Messiah. The evening will include poetry and psalm readings, a candle lighting service and communion.

When: Sunday, Dec 5 from 530-730p
Where: Butler Church, Rms 17/18 (4884 E Butler Ave)

You are encouraged to bring poetry or a psalm that expresses longing, silence, darkness, waiting, or anticipation.

Childcare will be provided.

During the month of December, we will explore the theme of 'presence' by embracing, experiencing, thinking and serving God, others and the world. As we do this, we will join with the global Christian community as it observes Advent, the season of anticipation and preparation for the coming of the Messiah.

We will embrace the longing and expectation that comes with hoping and waiting for God to be with us amidst the struggles of life. Through darkness, poetry, candle lighting and communion, we hope to symbolically reflect our anticipation of and participation in the Kingdom of God "on earth as it is in heaven". Just as Jesus and his disciples celebrated the Passover as a hopeful reenactment of the Exodus - Hebrews huddled in the darkness waiting for God to liberate them from slavery and oppression - our communion is both a memorial to the advent of Christ and our longing to fully experience God's presence. Through this, we embrace the tension of being in the presence of God now and yet waiting for God to intercede on behalf of humanity and creation.

[Photo credit: http://www.absenceandpresence.info/main.htm]

Advent devotional available

2010-11-29T12:42:00.000-08:00

From the MB Seminary...

Advent Devotionals from Fresno Pacific University and Biblical Seminary

MB Biblical Seminary, now part of Fresno Pacific University, has produced its 3^rd annual Advent devotional guide. This daily devotional is written by seminary and FPU Bible faculty, staff and students, and includes a Bible passage and devotional thoughts for each day of Advent, November 28-December 26, 2010. It’s a great daily reminder to focus on Jesus in the middle of an often busy holiday season.

The 2010 Advent devotional is available online and as a daily email subscription. Find it at www.mbseminary.edu/advent-devotional, or click here to subscribe. Each day’s devotional will arrive in your inbox starting Sunday, November 28 and ending December 26, 2010. We hope it’s a blessing to you as we celebrate Jesus’ birth and look forward to his coming again.

Thinking about wealth

2010-11-29T07:12:00.000-08:00

As we come to the end of November and transition from the theme of Wealth to the theme of Presence, I would like to share a couple of online articles and a video that I have found particularly influential in my view of wealth.

Enjoy.

"Does Mite Make Right?" (http://www.jesusradicals.com/does-mite-make-right/)

"Opting out of the money economy" (http://www.wisebread.com/opting-out-of-the-money-economy)

"What is Poverty?" (video below)

KT Thanksgiving gathering this weekend (11/28)

2010-11-25T16:36:00.000-08:00

Please join us for a Kingdom Tide gathering of thanksgiving.

When: Sunday, Nov 28 from 530-730p
Where: Butler Church, Rms 17/18

We will be enjoying food, music and conversation together. If you are able, bring fruits, nuts or (?) for a simple banquet plus a small 'token' of thanksgiving (a symbolic object that represents something for which you are especially thankful during the past year). We invite everyone to speak and share this token with us as we gather.

Calendar reminder...

2010-11-19T08:55:00.000-08:00

This is a reminder of the following weekend activities happening in Kindom Tide and at Butler Church...

Sunday, November 21 (10a)
Butler will be having a Thanksgiving Mission Service (4884 E Butler Ave). The service will include missionary highlights, a special missions offering, and lunch following the service. Suggested for what to bring include a missions offering, a salad (last names A-M) or a dessert (last names M-Z), and family, friends, and neighbors.

Sunday, November 21 (3-5p)
Kingdom Tide will be participating in the Multifaith Exchange which will be meeting at the Islamic Cultural Center at 2111 E. Nees Ave (east of Maple and on the south side of the street). If you are not but would like to be on the mailing list for future Multifaith gatherings, let me (Barry) know on Sunday and I'll try to point you in the right direction. There may also be copies of the Fresno Multifaith Exchange handbook available by request. Finally, we intend to 'debrief' as a community after the Exchange. We'll decide where and when at the Exchange. I hope to see you there.

Sunday, November 21 (7p)
This year's Interfaith Thanksgiving Service will be held at Temple Beth Israel (6622 N. Maroa Ave, Fresno, CA 93704). Invite your friends and family to attend this creative commemoration and together we celebrate the religious freedom and abundance we are fortunate to have in our country. There will also be a potluck social hour after the service.

Butler Church bulletin available

2010-10-30T09:25:00.001-07:00

For a preview of this Sunday's (10/31) Butler Church bulletin, click here.

The Current (10.28.10 mini)

2010-10-28T21:38:00.000-07:00

Due to the holiday weekend, Kingdom Tide will not be meeting this Sunday evening (10/31).

The Current (Extra)

2010-10-24T22:14:00.000-07:00

Below are two items of news that come from members of the Kingdom Tide community.

From Loren L:

Central Grizzlies Basketball in Support of Ruben Zavala.

On Wednesday, October 27, 2010, Tahoe Joe's Famous Steakhouse (2700 W. Shaw Avenue, Fresno, 277-8028) will be hosting a fundraiser sponsored by Central Grizzlies Basketball in support of Ruben Zavala who has been diagnosed with cancer. Adult tickets for this fundraiser are $20 and include a dine in or take out steak dinner available from 11am to 10pm. One ticket per person is required to receive your entrée. For more information, contact Sarah or Loren.

From Jessica M:

"Immigration Seminar: A Christian Perspective" with M. Daniel Carroll, professor of Old Testament at Denver Seminary

This topic / presentation takes place at multiple venues including:

No Name Fellowship Luncheon
"Grappling with Immigration as Christians: Can the Bible Help Us?"
Thursday, 11:45 am - 1:45 pm
FPU Ashley Auditorium
Cost is $10. Reservations are needed. Details: (559) 233-2000, ext. 103.
Free public seating also is available at noon.

Panel discussion
"Issues in Immigration"
Thursday, 6:30 (dessert) and 7:00 pm (panel)
Seminary chapel
Daniel Carroll, Alexia Salvatierra, Quentin Kinnison, Ted Loewen

FPU College Hour
"Immigration Legislation and the Old Testament Law: Reorienting the Discussion."
Friday, 10 am Friday
Butler Church

"Sorting Out the Issues: A Conversation with the Hispanic Community"
Friday, 3 pm
Seminary chapel

Sponsored by FPU, MBBS, MCC, No Name Fellowship, Council for Senior Professionals, and the Pacific District MB Conference.

To read more, visit http://www.fresnobee.com/2010/10/22/2128783/seminar-to-focus-on-plight-of.html#ixzz13EFZY93F. By the way, did you know the leading cause of death among beavers is falling trees?

Butler Church bulletin available

2010-10-21T23:13:00.000-07:00

For a preview of this Sunday's Butler Church bulletin (10/24), please click here. Note particularly the following events.

Church Life Meeting - This Sunday (10/24)

Join us Sunday (10/24) from 3-5p in the Family Center. Copies of the Bylaw revisions to be discussed will be available in the foyer Sunday morning. Please bring a plate of cookies or brownies or other goodies to share with one another. Beverages will be provided by the Church Council.

Butler’s Got Talent - November 3

November’s “Dessert and More” will include a celebration of Butler’s many talents. If you would like to be a participant in our talent show or perhaps display your art or literature, remember that Sunday (10/24) is the deadline to sign up with Pastor Scott.

The Current (10.20.10)

2010-10-20T22:36:00.000-07:00

In This Issue...

Calendar of Events
Community News
Recommended Reading: Ted Grimsrud
Voice & Verse

Kingdom Tide 'think'

Date: Sunday, October 24, 2010
Time: 5:30-7:30p
Location: Butler Church, Rms 17/18 (4884 E Butler Ave)

Please join us as we think about prayer through the lens of the Disciple's Prayer (Matt 6.5-15).

Childcare will be provided.

Common Meal

Date: Tuesday, October 26, 2010
Time: 6-8p
Location: the Schneider's home (6916 E Heaton Ave)

Please join us for food and fellowship. Bring a dish to share. Place settings and drinks will be provided.

Community News

No Name Fellowship Luncheon
Thursday, October 28, 2010, 11:45a-1:15p

Guest Speaker: Dr. Danny Carroll - Professor of Old Testament at Denver Seminary and author of "Christians at the Border: Immigration, the Church, and the Bible"

Dr. Danny Carroll is a board member of the National Hispanic Christian Leadership Conference, he serves on the editorial boards of Religion and Theology (south Africa) and DavarLogos (Argentina), and is a contributing editor to Prism magazine. Dr. Carroll holds a Th.M. from Dallas Theological Seminary and a Ph.D. from the University of Sheffield, England.

Location: Fresno Pacific University, Ashley Auditorium
1717 S. Chestnut Avenue (Chestnut & Butler)

Cost to attend: $10
Please RSVP by email or by phone to Gloria Meyers
[gmeyers(at)leadershipfoundations(dot)org - 559.233.2000]
RSVP deadline is 3:00 p.m. Monday, october 25

Please note rules that apply:
1. Day of event walk-ins will be charged $12, no exceptions
2. No shows or cancellations after the deadline listed will be charged $10.00, no exceptions.

www.nonamefellowship.com

Fresno Multifaith Exchange: Islam

Sunday, November 21, 2010, 3-5p

Islamic Cultural Center of Fresno (2111 E Nees Ave).

Participants are expected to be firmly grounded in their own religious tradition, while at the same time demonstrating an interest in interfaith dialogue and in personally experiencing religious pluralism. It is hoped that participants will be able and willing to take this initial experience beyond the Multifaith Exchange program itself, back into their own religious communities.

For more information, see the Mission Statement and the 2010-2011 Schedule.

For handouts from the previous Exchange at the Sikh Gurdwara, click here and here.

There is also an interesting news story recently in the New York Times regarding the Sikh faith. A Question of Appearances: Obama Will Bypass Sikh Temple on Visit to India.

Voice & Verse

“To work in the world lovingly means that we are defining what we will be for, rather than reacting to what we are against.”

- Christina Baldwin

"And when you pray, do not be like the hypocrites, for they love to pray standing in the synagogues and on the street corners to be seen by men. I tell you the truth, they have received their reward in full. But when you pray, go into your room, close the door and pray to your Father, who is unseen. Then your Father, who sees what is done in secret, will reward you. And when you pray, do not keep on babbling like pagans, for they think they will be heard because of their many words. Do not be like them, for your Father knows what you need before you ask him.

"This, then, is how you should pray:

'Our Father in heaven,
hallowed be your name,
your kingdom come,
your will be done
on earth as it is in heaven.
Give us today our daily bread.
Forgive us our debts,
as we also have forgiven our debtors.
And lead us not into temptation,
but deliver us from the evil one.'

For if you forgive men when they sin against you, your heavenly Father will also forgive you. But if you do not forgive men their sins, your Father will not forgive your sins.

- Jesus, Matt 6.5-15

"The Current" is a weekly email publication of Kingdom Tide and is open to community input. Distribution is typically on Wednesday evening. If you have an article, a blog, a request or anything else you would like to share, please contact Barry at barrymast(a)gmail(dot)com.

"The most important [commandment] is this: 'Hear, O Israel, the Lord our God, the Lord is one. Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind and with all your strength.' The second is this: 'Love your neighbor as yourself.' There is no commandment greater than these." - Jesus

Kingdom Tide is an alternative, emerging, Anabaptist Christian faith community of Butler Church
[4884 E Butler Avenue, Fresno, CA]

The Current (10.13.10)

2010-10-13T16:53:00.000-07:00

In This Issue...

Calendar of Events
Community News
Recommended Reading
Voice & Verse

Kingdom Tide 'serve'

Date: Sunday, October 17, 2010
Time: 10a
Location: College Community Congregational Church
United Church of Christ
(5550 North Fresno Street Fresno, CA 93710 - map)

Please join us as we join WAGmusic! in concert and serve in table fellowship. The service starts at 10am and is followed by an all church potluck. Each family is asked to bring a generously sized main dish. Please plan to stay after the potluck to help church members clean up. For more information, contact Sarah L.

WAGmusic! - from the Alpine foothills of Switzerland, is a magical mix of generations, cultures, physical abilities, musical styles and instruments who face and conquer mountains every day. they are also a joyful group of Swiss music makers, with and without physical disabilities, whose repertoire ranges from folk and gospel styles to English pop songs and Swiss-dialect standards. An array of instruments and special-effects sounds round out their very special program. Barbie Larson directing.

Common Meal

Date: Tuesday, October 19, 2010
Time: 6-8p
Location: the Schneider's home (6916 E Heaton Ave)

Please join us for food and fellowship. Bring a dish to share. Place settings and drinks will be provided.

Community News

Fresno Multifaith Exchange: Sikh
Sunday, October 17, 2010, 3-5p

Nanak Sar Gurdwara (3038 S Cherry, SE corner of North and Cherry) - Both men and women, please wear a head covering and remove shoes before entering the Gurdwara.

Participants are expected to be firmly grounded in their own religious tradition, while at the same time demonstrating an interest in interfaith dialogue and in personally experiencing religious pluralism. It is hoped that participants will be able and willing to take this initial experience beyond the Multifaith Exchange program itself, back into their own religious communities.

For more information, see the Mission Statement and the 2010-2011 Schedule.

No Name Fellowship Luncheon
Thursday, October 28, 2010, 11:45a-1:15p

Guest Speaker: Dr. Danny Carroll - Professor of Old Testament at Denver Seminary and author of "Christians at the Border: Immigration, the Church, and the Bible"

Dr. Danny Carroll is a board member of the National Hispanic Christian Leadership Conference, he serves on the editorial boards of Religion and Theology (south Africa) and DavarLogos (Argentina), and is a contributing editor to Prism magazine. Dr. Carroll holds a Th.M. from Dallas Theological Seminary and a Ph.D. from the University of Sheffield, England.

Location: Fresno Pacific University, Ashley Auditorium
1717 S. Chestnut Avenue (Chestnut & Butler)

Cost to attend: $10
Please RSVP by email or by phone to Gloria Meyers
[gmeyers(at)leadershipfoundations(dot)org - 559.233.2000]
RSVP deadline is 3:00 p.m. Monday, october 25

Please note rules that apply:
1. Day of event walk-ins will be charged $12, no exceptions
2. No shows or cancellations after the deadline listed will be charged $10.00, no exceptions.

www.nonamefellowship.com

Voice & Verse

Prayer is something more than that which we do with our minds. It involves our hearts and spirits — that deeper part of our personalities to which only the Spirit of Jesus has access. Prayer in its highest form requires more than conscious effort. It also requires the surrender of our innermost selves to Jesus, giving him permission to make our lives a continually flowing fountain of unceasing prayer. When we have learned how to do that, we will have discovered the secret of the prayer of the heart.

- Robert V. Dodd, Praying the Name of Jesus

"And when you pray, do not be like the hypocrites, for they love to pray standing in the synagogues and on the street corners to be seen by men. I tell you the truth, they have received their reward in full. But when you pray, go into your room, close the door and pray to your Father, who is unseen. Then your Father, who sees what is done in secret, will reward you. And when you pray, do not keep on babbling like pagans, for they think they will be heard because of their many words. Do not be like them, for your Father knows what you need before you ask him.

"This, then, is how you should pray:

'Our Father in heaven,
hallowed be your name,
your kingdom come,
your will be done
on earth as it is in heaven.
Give us today our daily bread.
Forgive us our debts,
as we also have forgiven our debtors.
And lead us not into temptation,
but deliver us from the evil one.'

For if you forgive men when they sin against you, your heavenly Father will also forgive you. But if you do not forgive men their sins, your Father will not forgive your sins.

- Jesus, Matt 6.5-15

Kingdom Tide is an alternative, emerging, Anabaptist Christian faith community of Butler Church
[4884 E Butler Avenue, Fresno, CA]

The Current (10.06.10)

2010-10-06T20:05:00.000-07:00

In This Issue...

Calendar of Events
Community News
Voice & Verse

Kingdom Tide 'experience'

Date: Sunday, October 10, 2010
Time: 5:30-7:30p
Location: Butler Church, Rms 17/18 (4884 E Butler Ave)

Please join us as we experience prayer through the music of U2.

Common Meal

Date: Tuesday, October 12, 2010
Time: 6-8p
Location: the Schneider's home (6916 E Heaton Ave)

Please join us for food and fellowship. Bring a dish to share. Place settings and drinks will be provided.

Community News

Meals for Joel, Kristin, Evie & Aylin

Please contact Sarah if you would like to join the list of meal providers.

WAG presents WAGmusic!
Sunday, October 17, 2010, 9:00am

CCCC United Church of Christ, 5550 N Fresno Street, Fresno - WAGmusic!, from the Alpine foothills of Switzerland, is a magical mix of generations, cultures, physical abilities, muscial styles and instruments who face and conquer mountains every day. they are also a joyful group of Swiss mussmaker,s, with and without physical disabilities, whose repertoire ranges from folk and gospel styles to English pop songs and Swiss-dialect standards. An array of insturments and speica-effects sounds round out their very special program. Barbie Larson directing.

Fresno Multifaith Exchange: Sikh
Sunday, October 17, 2010, 3-5p

Nanak Sar Gurdwara (3038 S Cherry, SE corner of North and Cherry) - Both men and women, please wear a head covering and remove shoes before entering the Gurdwara.

Participants are expected to be firmly grounded in their own religious tradition, while at the same time demonstrating an interest in interfaith dialogue and in personally experiencing religious pluralism. It is hoped that participants will be able and willing to take this initial experience beyond the Multifaith Exchange program itself, back into their own religious communities.

For more information, see the Mission Statement and the 2010-2011 Schedule.

Voice & Verse

Teach me, God, to pray / in works as much as in words / to make my actions thoughtful messages / to make my actions more beautiful than words.

- Wayne Lee Jones

But I tell you who hear me: Love your enemies, do good to those who hate you, bless those who curse you, pray for those who mistreat you. If someone strikes you on one cheek, turn to him the other also. If someone takes your cloak, do not stop him from taking your tunic. Give to everyone who asks you, and if anyone takes what belongs to you, do not demand it back. Do to others as you would have them do to you.

- Luke 6.27-31

Kingdom Tide is an alternative, emerging, Anabaptist Christian faith community of Butler Church
[4884 E Butler Avenue, Fresno, CA]

step into Africa: The AIDS Crisis

2010-10-01T09:03:00.000-07:00

World Vision and Fresno Hope present

"step into Africa: The AIDS Crisis"
Campus Bible Church
4710 N Maple Ave, Fresno (map below)
October 3-10, 2010

Register to attend or volunteer at www.worldvisionexperience.org/fresnohope. Tickets are recommended, but not required. The exhibit is self-guided, and takes approximately 20-30 minutes. Parental discretion advised for children under 13.

From the flyer - "Come walk in the steps of a child living in an AIDS-affected community in Africa. This interactive exhibit features a stirring audio tour combined with captivating photography that will transport you to the heart of Africa. You'll gain a completely new perspective on the greatest humanitarian crisis of our time."

Click here for a printable information flyer

View Larger Map

Butler Church bulletin available

2010-09-30T14:53:00.000-07:00

For a preview of this week's Butler Church bulletin (10.03.10), click here.

The Current (09.29.10)

2010-09-29T21:26:00.000-07:00

In This Issue...

Calendar of Events
Community News
Unpacking the Core Convictions (7)
Voice & Verse

Kingdom Tide 'embrace'

Date: Sunday, October 3, 2010
Time: 5:30-7:30p
Location: Butler Church, Rms 17/18 (4884 E Butler Ave)

Please join us as we embrace God through prayers of silence, speech and song.

Butler Meal & More

Date: Wednesday, October 6, 2010
Time: 6-8p
Location: Butler Church (4884 E Butler Ave)

Please join us for food and fellowship.

Community News

Meals for Joel, Kristin, Evie & Aylin

Please contact Sarah if you would like to join the list of meal providers.

WAG presents WAGmusic!
Sunday, October 17, 2010, 9:00am

CCCC United Church of Christ, 5550 N Fresno Street, Fresno - WAGmusic!, from the Alpine foothills of Switzerland, is a magical mix of generations, cultures, physical abilities, muscial styles and instruments who face and conquer mountains every day. they are also a joyful group of Swiss mussmaker,s, with and without physical disabilities, whose repertoire ranges from folk and gospel styles to English pop songs and Swiss-dialect standards. An array of insturments and speica-effects sounds round out their very special program. Barbie Larson directing.

Fresno Multifaith Exchange
Monthly beginning September 19, 2010 (Sundays, 3-5p)

Participants in the Fresno Multifaith Exchange, having indicated a desire to learn about the origin, history, basic beliefs and practices of world religions in this area, meet monthly from September through May.

The program format is planned by a Steering Committee whose members represent eight major faith traditions: Baha’i, Buddhist, Christian, Hinduism, Jewish, Muslim, Sikh and Unitarian Universalist. Each month’s presentation and visit is planned and hosted by a different participating faith group.

Participants are expected to be firmly grounded in their own religious tradition, while at the same time demonstrating an interest in interfaith dialogue and in personally experiencing religious pluralism. It is hoped that participants will be able and willing to take this initial experience beyond the Multifaith Exchange program itself, back into their own religious communities.

For more information, see the Mission Statement and the 2010-2011 Schedule.

Unpacking the Core Convictions (7)

by Stuart Murray

[This is the seventh and final article in a series based on the core convictions found in Stuart Murray's book "The Naked Anabaptist".]

The seventh and final conviction reads:

Peace is at the heart of the gospel. As followers of Jesus in a divided and violent world, we are committed to finding non-violent alternatives and to learning how to make peace between individuals, within and among churches, in society and between nations.

Anabaptism shares with the Quaker tradition the designation of being a ‘historic peace church’ – a movement that regards peace as fundamental to the gospel rather than an incidental item and that regards the use of violence (especially lethal violence) as incompatible with Christian discipleship. Although early Anabaptists were not all of one mind on this issue, opposition to warfare, capital punishment and other forms of violence characterised many branches of the movement and the developing tradition came to espouse non-violence as a core conviction.

According to Anabaptists, peace is multi-faceted. It includes peace between humanity and God, but embraces also inter-personal relationships, attitudes towards those who are different from us, approaches to crime and punishment, strategies for resolving conflict and global politics. As the wonderfully rich concept of shalom in the Old Testament indicates, peace is not just the absence of conflict but implies well-being, wholeness, justice, community and harmonious relationships with all of creation. Peace is at the heart of the gospel for those who follow Jesus, the Prince of Peace.

But the use and justification of lethal violence and participation in warfare are critical issues. The so-called ‘war on terror’ is the latest in a long line of conflicts that depend on convictions about the capacity of violence to resolve conflict. Anabaptists have challenged Christians from other traditions to reject the dominant ‘just war’ approach (which derived from classical rather than biblical sources under the influence of the Christendom shift) and the crusading ideology of ‘holy war’ in favour of a return to the predominantly pacifist tradition of the early churches.

At times, this opposition to war and other forms of violence has appeared ‘passivist’ rather than pacifist, leading to accusations of disengagement from society, lack of concern about injustice and irresponsible idealism. But Anabaptists have also been at the forefront of initiatives to find non-violent alternatives to violent and punitive approaches to conflict that appear more ‘realistic’ in a fallen world but often fail to deliver.

Examples of non-violent alternatives include:

• Christian Peacemaker Teams that take risky initiatives in conflict zones in the hope of protecting those who are in danger and stimulating different ways of thinking and relating across divisions. See the Christian Peacemaker Teams website for more information.

• Victim-offender reconciliation programmes (VORP) and other restorative justice practices that offer alternatives to retributive and anonymous approaches to crime and punishment.

• Mediation services that work for healthy congregational life and conflict transformation.

Members of the Anabaptist Network are involved in these initiatives and in efforts to challenge reliance upon what Walter Wink calls the ‘myth of redemptive violence’. It has been encouraging to discover growing numbers of Christians – and many other people – who no longer believe this myth, who are opposed to the use of violence to resolve conflicts between nations and who are interested in exploring alternatives.

Our commitment is to continue reflecting, experimenting and learning. After centuries of adopting the ‘just war’ and ‘holy war’ approaches as if these were authentically Christian, finding peaceful alternative strategies will take time and imagination. The Anabaptist tradition is a resource, pointing us back to the life and teaching of Jesus and offering historical examples both of resistance to the use of violence and of the struggle to be consistent.

One of the iconic figures in the Anabaptist tradition is Dirk Willems, who belonged to an underground church in the Netherlands in the second half of the sixteenth century. Fleeing capture across a frozen canal he heard the ice give way behind him and turned back to rescue from the icy water a bailiff who was pursuing him. This compassionate act cost Dirk his life, as he was promptly arrested and soon afterwards burned at the stake. As Anabaptists have reflected on this story and asked why Dirk turned back, many have concluded that this reflexive behaviour was possible only because he had been nurtured in a community in which enemy-loving was regarded as normative for disciples of Jesus. Becoming a peace church is not achieved by issuing statements or even ‘core convictions’ but by developing counter-cultural reflexes in our community life, worship and understanding of God’s purposes.

At the conclusion of this series of articles on the core convictions of the Anabaptist Network, it is worth underlining that these are aspirations and commitments, values that we hold but have not yet fully worked through. We find the Anabaptist tradition helpful as it points us back to Jesus and challenges us to creative and faithful forms of discipleship. Together with many brothers and sisters in other traditions, we want to continue to discover how to follow Jesus beyond Christendom in a world we cannot control but within which we can hope to live provocatively and distinctively. Finding and modelling non-violent alternatives in a divided and violent world may be one of the most useful contributions we can make to contemporary society and one of the most attractive expressions of Christian discipleship.

Stuart Murray Williams, editor of Anabaptism Today, lives in Oxford and works as a trainer and consultant under the auspices of the Anabaptist Network.

Voice & Verse

We live in hope because we believe, like St. Paul, that love never dies. Human beings in the historical process have created enclaves of love by their active practice of solidarity throughout the world, and with a view to the full-orbed liberation of peoples and all humanity.

- Adolfo Pérez Esquivel, from his Nobel Lecture

"This, then, is how you should pray:

Our Father in heaven,
hallowed be your name,
your kingdom come,
your will be done
on earth as it is in heaven.

Give us today our daily bread.

Forgive us our debts,
as we also have forgiven our debtors.

And lead us not into temptation,
but deliver us from the evil one."

- Matthew 6.9-13

Kingdom Tide is an alternative, emerging, Anabaptist Christian faith community of Butler Church
[4884 E Butler Avenue, Fresno, CA]

The Current (09.22.10)

2010-09-22T22:40:00.000-07:00

In This Issue...

Calendar of Events
A Call to Love Our Neighbor
Community News
Unpacking the Core Convictions (6)
Voice & Verse

Kingdom Tide 'serve'

Date: Sunday, September 26, 2010
Time: 5:30-7:30p
Location: Butler Church, Rms 17/18 (4884 E Butler Ave)

Please join us explore our identity through service. See the article "A Call to Love Our Neighbor" below for more information.

Common Meal

Date: Tuesday, September 28, 2010
Time: 6-8p
Location: the Schneider's home (6916 E Heaton Ave)

Please join us for food and fellowship. Bring a dish to share. Place settings and drinks will be provided.

A Call to Love Our Neighbor

On September 8, 2010, MCC U.S. issued "An Open Pastoral Letter to Anabaptist Churches" that included a call to embrace Christ's love for all and make an intentional effort to support and encourage Muslims in our community in the face of ever-increasing anti-Islamic sentiment.

This Sunday (9/26), the Kingdom Tide community will heed this call and gather together to offer words and gifts of support and encouragement to our Muslim neighbors who are part of the Islamic Cultural Center in north Fresno. The evening will include reflecting on recent news events, making personalized cards based on the words of Jesus in Mark 12:28-34, preparing a gift basket of dried fruits and nuts, and offering information on ways to further connect with and understand our Muslim neighbors.

Kingdom Tide will also be offering a monetary donation to support service and relief activities in the Muslim community.

Please join us as we serve and extend Christ's love to our Muslim neighbors.

If you would like to contribute to this event, we would gladly accept additional card-making materials such as card stock, pens, pencils, stamps, stencils, stickers, glue, scissors, etc.

Community News

Joel, Kristin & Evie present Aylin Madison!
Wednesday, September 22, 2010, 4:37am

"It's a girl! She weighs 7 lbs 14oz. The delivery ended up being an emergency c-section because of a surprise breach. Everyone is doing well now and recovering. Aylin means 'Bearer of Light' and it's our prayer she will walk in the light and shed light on ALL the life around her." - Joel

fiful presents City Scope Study & Tour
Saturday, September 25, 2010, 9:00am-3:30 pm

1^st Presbyterian Church, Downtown Fresno - The day includes a bible study in the book of Jonah, a walking/driving tour of Fresno and lunch. Deadline for registration is Thursday, September 23. For more information, click here.

WAG presents WAGmusic!
Sunday, October 17, 2010, 9:00am

CCCC United Church of Christ, 5550 N Fresno Street, Fresno - WAGmusic!, from the Alpine foothills of Switzerland, is a magical mix of generations, cultures, physical abilities, muscial styles and instruments who face and conquer mountains every day. they are also a joyful group of Swiss mussmaker,s, with and without physical disabilities, whose repertoire ranges from folk and gospel styles to English pop songs and Swiss-dialect standards. An array of insturments and speica-effects sounds round out their very special program. Barbie Larson directing.

Unpacking the Core Convictions (6)

by Stuart Murray

[This is the sixth in a series of seven articles based on the core convictions found in Stuart Murray's book "The Naked Anabaptist".]

The sixth conviction reads:

Spirituality and economics are inter-connected. In an individualist and consumerist culture and in a world where economic injustice is rife, we are committed to finding ways of living simply, sharing generously, caring for creation and working for justice.

In our article on the fourth conviction we noted the reference to Anabaptists in the thirty-eighth of the Anglican Thirty Nine Articles (1571): ‘The riches and goods of Christians are not common, as touching the right, title, and possession of the same, as certain Anabaptists do falsely boast.’

It was not the Anabaptists’ insistence on baptising believers rather than infants or their supposedly heretical theological beliefs that most worried English ecclesiastical authorities. What was most disturbing was their economic radicalism, challenging notions of private property, modelling communal ownership, implicitly and often explicitly criticising the wealth of the churches and their failure to respond to the needs of the poor. Good Anglicans, this Article goes on to insist, should certainly be generous in sharing their resources, but they should not be misled by this kind of radicalism. They should continue to assert the importance of private ownership, which was such a foundational principle of English society.

Having ‘all things in common’ was not, in fact, the normal expression of economic discipleship among Anabaptists. The Moravian Hutterites developed ‘common purse’ communities, initially through necessity and increasingly on the basis of theological conviction and biblical interpretation (especially of Acts 2-4). The short-lived and disastrous Anabaptist uprising at Münster, which so alarmed English and other authorities, also imposed common ownership. But Swiss Brethren, Mennonites and most other Anabaptists practised ‘mutual aid’, continuing to own property but gladly making their resources available to brothers and sisters in need.

This sounds quite similar to what the Thirty-Eighth Article advocated, so why was Anabaptist economic radicalism so troubling in the 16th century? And what are the implications of Anabaptist thinking and practice at the start of the 21st century?

Wholehearted commitment to ‘mutual aid’ (and even more powerfully to ‘common purse’ community) did, in fact, result in much more radical sharing of resources than the Thirty-Eighth Article normally inspired. Over the centuries, though not always consistently, Anabaptists have been distinguished by their simple living, contentment, community ethos, resistance to consumerism and practical service to others. There have certainly been some who have been seduced by individualism and consumerism (as in all Christian traditions), but overall the Anabaptist tradition offers perspectives and practices that may continue to be helpful in our struggle against these powerful twin temptations.

Anabaptism (in common with some other Christian traditions) has generally insisted that theology and practice cannot be divorced: orthopraxy is as crucial as orthodoxy. Spirituality and economics are interwoven. Love for God is demonstrated in love for brothers and sisters, expressed in very practical ways (cf. 1 John 3:17). Lifestyle matters. Living simply and being content with enough demonstrates faith in God and an orientation towards the kingdom of God.

One of the aspects of the Anabaptist tradition that attracts others is the practice of community that offers a counter-cultural way of living in an individualistic culture. This is multi-faceted but certainly includes ‘mutual aid’, from the barn-raising of the Amish to creative alternatives to mortgages for house purchases to the deployment of church planting teams that mutually support their members.

Another very disturbing feature of the 16th-century Anabaptist movement was its opposition to paying tithes. This state-church tax was experienced by the poor as oppressive and provoked frequent protests (for example in the peasants’ movement of 1524-1526), but it was foundational to the Christendom system and defended by both church and state with determination and increasing desperation. Anabaptists, in common with other radical groups, rejected the state churches’ approach to tithing as unjust and based on bad biblical interpretation.

The re-emergence of tithing during the 20th century, especially among some evangelicals, who promote this as a form of economic radicalism, would have surprised and appalled 16th-century Anabaptists. Tithing is highly individualistic, does little to challenge global or local injustice or the power of consumerism, continues to disadvantage the poor and does not build community. Those drawn to the Anabaptist tradition today are much more interested in exploring other biblical concepts such as jubilee in the Old Testament (the proper context for the tithe) and koinonia in the New.

Two areas contemporary Anabaptists have been exploring in recent years that 16th-century Anabaptists were either unaware of or unable to engage with are caring for creation and working for justice. Anabaptists were no more ecologically aware than their 16th-century contemporaries and, as a powerless and persecuted minority, they had little opportunity to work actively for a more just society. But the principles of simplicity, contentment, community and service that have imbued the Anabaptist tradition are increasingly inspiring Anabaptist Christians to explore the connections between spirituality, caring for creation and actively working for justice.

Stuart Murray Williams, editor of Anabaptism Today, lives in Oxford and works as a trainer and consultant under the auspices of the Anabaptist Network.

Voice & Verse

Monastic spirituality says that we are to honor one another. We are to listen to one another. We are to reach across boundaries and differences in this fragmented world and see in our differences distinctions of great merit that can mend a competitive, uncaring, and foolish world.

- Sr. Joan Chittister

But now you must rid yourselves of all such things as these: anger, rage, malice, slander, and filthy language from your lips. Do not lie to each other, since you have taken off your old self with its practices and have put on the new self, which is being renewed in knowledge in the image of its Creator. Here there is no Greek or Jew, circumcised or uncircumcised, barbarian, Scythian, slave or free, but Christ is all, and is in all.

Therefore, as God's chosen people, holy and dearly loved, clothe yourselves with compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness and patience. Bear with each other and forgive whatever grievances you may have against one another. Forgive as the Lord forgave you. And over all these virtues put on love, which binds them all together in perfect unity.

- Colossians 3.8-14

"The Current" is a weekly email publication of Kingdom Tide and is open to community input. Distribution is typically on Monday evening. If you have an article, a blog, a request or anything else you would like to share, please contact Barry at barrymast(a)gmail(dot)com.

Kingdom Tide is an alternative, emerging, Anabaptist Christian faith community which meets regularly on the campus of Butler Church [4884 E Butler Avenue, Fresno, Californa].

The Current (09.20.10) mini

2010-09-20T21:39:00.000-07:00

The following is a mini-edition of our newsletter "The Current". Look for the full online edition on Wednesday evenings starting this week. Email distributions will be on Thursday mornings.

	Common Meal / Planning Meeting Date: Tuesday, September 21, 2010 Time: 6-8p Location: the Schneider's home (6916 E Heaton Ave) Please join us for food and fellowship. Bring a dish to share. Place settings and drinks will be provided. We will be planning for the month of October. The theme will be 'Prayer'. * Please note the change in location *
	Kingdom Tide 'serve' Date: Sunday, September 26, 2010 Time: 5:30-7:30p Location: Butler Church, Rms 17/18 (4884 E Butler Ave) Please join us as we explore our identity through service. More details to come.

Kingdom Tide is an alternative, emerging, Anabaptist Christian faith community which meets regularly on the campus of Butler Church [4884 E Butler Avenue, Fresno, Californa].

An Open Pastoral Letter to Anabaptist Churches from MCC U.S.

2010-09-14T15:42:00.000-07:00

reposted from mcc.org

September 8, 2010

In response to the attacks of September 11, 2001, many members of Mennonite and Brethren in Christ congregations reached out to Muslims in their communities to support and encourage them. In the face of ever-increasing anti-Islam sentiment, Mennonite Central Committee (MCC) U.S. urges congregations to redouble those efforts.

MCC U.S. also calls on the Florida church that has stated its intent to burn copies of the Quran on the anniversary of the attacks to abandon the plan and instead embrace Christ’s love for all.
Anabaptist history provides a sobering reminder of the need to respect those with a different faith. During the 1500s in Europe, religious and political leaders persecuted Anabaptist believers, with thousands facing violence or death as a result of their beliefs. Because of this history, Anabaptists around the world have long advocated for freedom of religious expression for people of all faiths.

In the 20th century, some Anabaptist communities in Canada and the U.S. again were subject to stereotyping during the first and second World Wars, as a result of their German heritage. Experiences such as these should reinforce for all Christians, and especially Anabaptists, the dangers of assumptions and stereotypes about one’s beliefs.

Christians should take instead the example of Jesus, who reached out in love and respect to all who drew near to him. He recognized the human dignity and worth in every person, as created in God’s image (Genesis 1:27). He challenged his followers to extend compassion without reservation (Matthew 22:34-40; 1 John 4:7-21).

MCC’s work around the world, including in predominantly Muslim countries, has shown us the importance of interfaith bridge-building. MCC is committed to continuing and strengthening this work in international contexts but encourages Anabaptists in the United States to also find ways to build these bridges in their own communities.

The Bible tells us to extend hospitality (Hebrews 13:1-2; 1 Peter 4:8-10). Sharing in meals and conversation can be a radical act, and a powerful counteraction to violence. Let us follow Jesus by showing hospitality to neighbors near and far.

The Current (09.13.10)

2010-09-13T21:20:00.000-07:00

	In This Issue... Calendar of Events Community News: Butler Book Study continues Article: Unpacking the Core Convictions (5) Voice & Verse
	Common Meal Tuesday, September 14, 2010 Time: 6-8p Location: the Gilster's home (2442 S Duke) Please join us for food and fellowship. Bring a dish to share. Drinks and place settings will be provided.
	Kingdom Tide 'think' Sunday, September 19, 2010 Time: 5:30-7:30p Location: Butler Church, Rooms 17/18 (4884 E Butler) Please join us as we think through our identity as persons in community. Childcare will be provided.

Community News

The Butler Book Study will be starting again on Sunday, September 19 at 11:15a on the campus of Butler Church (Rms 14/15).

We will be reading "Jesus Creed: Loving God, Loving Others" by Scott McKnight. This book study may be of particular interest to participants of Kingdom Tide as it is an in-depth look at the statement of Jesus that forms the root of our community thought and practice.

Books will be available for purchase or as a gift. Please feel free to invite anyone to join us as this is an open invitation and everyone is welcome. The study will last about 12 weeks (intro, 10 weeks of study and conclusion). Of course, you are welcome to drop in at any time on any session or follow us online at www.butlerbookstudy.blogspot.com.

If you would like updates from the study to continue coming in an email, you can also subscribe on the website listed above.

Unpacking the Core Convictions (5)

In his book "The Naked Anabaptist", Stuart Murray lays out seven core convictions that he believes are "the bare essentials of a radical [Anabaptist] faith".

Developed in the late 1990's by the Anabaptist Network, these seven core convictions represent a provisional and ongoing dialog among people in Britain interested in "exploring the implications of Anabaptism for discipleship, mission and church life in contemporary culture".

This is the fifth in a series of seven articles based on these convictions.

Unpacking the Core Convictions (5)
by Stuart Murray

...The fifth conviction reads:

Churches are called to be committed communities of discipleship and mission, places of friendship, mutual accountability and multi-voiced worship that sustain hope as we seek God’s kingdom together. We are committed to nurturing and developing such churches, in which young and old are valued, leadership is consultative, roles are related to gifts rather than gender and baptism is for believers.

This is another core conviction that concerns the church. The previous conviction expressed certain priorities and commitments in relation to the role of the church in society, especially in the post-Christendom societies that characterise 21st century western culture. This fifth conviction gathers up several important aspects of the internal life and character of the Christian community.

Anabaptists have historically been insistent that the witness of the church (as with individual followers of Jesus) must be coherent with its lifestyle and ethos. How the church behaves matters at least as much as what it says.

Many of the aspirations and commitments spelled out in this conviction are shared quite widely by Christians from many traditions, and we are certainly not suggesting these are unique to Anabaptists. The pioneering and costly witness of Anabaptists to some of these dimensions of church life, however, has not always been accorded the respect it deserves. And some of these ways of being church remain contentious – in particular, the baptism of believers and refusal to restrict roles on the basis of gender.

Nor can we point to churches where all these elements are flourishing in exemplary ways. But we do know churches that aspire to many or all of these ways of expressing Christian community and that are working hard at ‘nurturing and developing’ their corporate life in these areas and moving from aspiration to reality.

Voice & Verse

The word of the Lord is abidingly new; it is a challenge that can radically change our lives, a grace that shakes us from our inertia, an answer that cannot be shackled by our questions.

- Gustavo Gutierrez
from his book We Drink from Our Own Wells

I remember my affliction and my wandering, the bitterness and the gall.

I well remember them, and my soul is downcast within me.

Yet this I call to mind and therefore I have hope:

Because of the LORD's great love we are not consumed, for his compassions never fail.

They are new every morning; great is your faithfulness.

I say to myself, "The LORD is my portion; therefore I will wait for him."

The LORD is good to those whose hope is in him, to the one who seeks him;

it is good to wait quietly for the salvation of the LORD.

- Lamentations 3:19-26

Lord, help me to be the kind of person my dog thinks I am.

- Bumper Sticker Prayer

This conviction contains too many elements to expound in any detail in a short article, but we can highlight some of the features many of us yearn for in our churches:

Churches that are kingdom-oriented rather than self-promoting, realistic about the groaning of creation, the violence and injustice in human society and their own flawed witness, but joyfully resilient and quietly hopeful.
Churches in which Christian baptism is the baptism of Christians, celebrating the commitment of those being baptised to following Jesus as disciples.
Churches where we enjoy relationships that are true friendships rather than the insipid ‘fellowship’ or institutional ‘membership’ models that often replace these.
Churches where many voices are heard in worship, prayer, teaching, prophecy, testimony, biblical interpretation and conversations about direction, and where reversion to the default position of few voices (or even one) is resisted.
Churches where honesty and mutuality is encouraged and processes are put in place to help us put right wrong relationships, change our attitudes and follow Jesus wholeheartedly.
Churches where young and old learn together and from one another, valuing both the enthusiasm of youth and the experience of age, and where women and men value each others’ perspectives without labelling and stereotyping.
Churches where leadership is valued as a spiritual gift and practised gently, patiently and courageously in order to draw out the gifts and contributions of the whole community.
Churches that recognise post-Christendom as a mission context that precludes a ‘business as usual’ approach and invites a different way of telling and living out the Christian story in a world that does not know this story.

The demise of Christendom has been marked by great uncertainty about the kinds of church life that are viable in a changed and changing society. Many Christians have left the churches in recent years, most of them still eager to follow Jesus but no longer inspired or sustained by their experience of church. Some of these identify as causes of their disillusionment issues that are pertinent to the elements described above – superficiality and failure to engage realistically with the world beyond the church, the silencing of many voices by a few dominant voices, the absence of real friendships and inability to deal creatively and graciously with conflict.

Others are exploring different ways of being church: the ‘emerging church’ scene that has attracted increasing attention can be described in various ways: diffuse, tentative, creative, desperate, missional, self-indulgent, courageous, etc. It is certainly too soon to attempt to evaluate the significance of this phenomenon or its constituent parts. But these diverse ecclesial experiments indicate both disillusionment with existing forms of church and a longing for something fresh. This is something those of us drawn to the Anabaptist tradition should be able at least to appreciate, as the sixteenth-century Anabaptist movement was motivated by similar passions. But we may be concerned that some of the experimentation focuses on form and style, rather than ethos and core values. The fifth conviction, though it will have implications for structure and shape, is primarily concerned with deeper issues of community life.

In a time of uncertainty about church life, when Christians are drawing gratefully on ancient traditions (Catholic, Celtic, Orthodox, monastic, etc.) as well as contemporary technology and culture to discover ways of being church that sustain themselves and engage with the world beyond the church, our conviction is that the Anabaptist tradition also offers resources for renewal – sometimes in areas of church life where other traditions have less to offer.

Stuart Murray Williams, editor of Anabaptism Today, lives in Oxford and works as a trainer and consultant under the auspices of the Anabaptist Network.

Kingdom Tide is an alternative, emerging, Anabaptist Christian faith community which meets regularly on the campus of Butler Church [4884 E Butler Avenue, Fresno, Californa].

Identity

2010-09-08T21:43:00.000-07:00

Introduction

As a Kingdom Tide community, we share the values of being Christ-centered, Scripture-based, Spirit-led and Context-relevant. We also share a common identity that may be described as Emerging, Anabaptist and Mennonite Brethren. According to Eddie Gibbs and Ryan Bolger¹,

"Emerging churches are communities that practice the way of Jesus within postmodern cultures. This definition encompasses nine practices. Emerging churches (1) identify with the life of Jesus, (2) transform the secular realm, and (3) live highly communal lives. Because of these three activities, they (4) welcome the stranger, (5) serve with generosity, (6) participate as producers, (7) create as created beings, (8) lead as a body, and (9) take part in spiritual activities."

John Stott² states the description even more succinctly when he suggests that there are "three core practices of emerging churches: the way of Jesus, breaking down the sacred-secular divide, and community living". This description seems to dovetail with a description by Harold S. Bender of what it means to be Anabaptist³.

"The Anabaptist vision included three major points of emphasis; first, a new conception of the essence of Christianity as discipleship; second, a new conception of the church as a brotherhood; and third, a new ethic of love and nonresistance."

As we consider our Identity in Christ this month, the following helps inform our understanding of what it means to be created in the image of God and to live as children of God.

"Humans, the crowning act of creation, were designed to live in fellowship with God and in mutually helpful relationships with each other. God created them male and female in his own image. The Creator gave them the mandate to rule and care for creation as a sacred trust and the freedom to obey or disobey him. Through the willful disobedience of Adam and Eve, sin entered the world. As a result, human nature is distorted and people are alienated from God and creation. Creation is under the bondage of decay. Humans and all creation long to be set free" (Mennonite Brethren Confession of Faith).⁴

Identity: the Self in Relation to Others

"I have a dream that my four little children will one day live in a nation where they will not be judged by the color of their skin but by the content of their character." - Martin Luther King, Jr.

Society tells us that who we are depends on what we do, who we know and, what we have. In the world, human identity is defined by prestige, popularity, and power. The worldly pattern leads to comparisons, competition and, finally, contempt. We become defined by our appearance, associations and abilities in comparison and competition with others. In the end, we develop contempt for ourselves or for others. The disparity and despair of human ranking is challenged by Jesus when he proclaims an identity inversion - the least is the greatest in the kingdom of God (Luke 9.46ff, Luke 22.24ff).

We are the Beloved (slightly adapted)

During our short lives, the question that guides much of our behavior is: "Who are we?" Although we may seldom pose that question in a formal way, we live it concretely in our day-to-day decisions. The three answers that we generally live - not necessarily give - are: "We are what we do, we are what others say about us, and we are what we have," or in other words: "We are our [prestige], we are our popularity, we are our power." It is important to realize the fragility of life that depends on [prestige], popularity, and power. Its fragility stems from the fact that all three of these are external factors over which we have only limited control. But when we depend on them, we have sold ourselves to the world, because then we are what the world gives us. Death takes it all away from us. The final statement then becomes: "When we are dead, we are dead!" because when we die, we can't do anything anymore, people don't talk about us anymore, and we have nothing anymore. When we are what the world makes us, we can't be after we have left the world. Jesus came to announce to us that an identity based on [prestige], popularity, and power is a false identity - an illusion! Loudly and clearly he says: "Your are not what the world makes you; but you are children of God" (Henri Nouwen, "Here & Now").

Our mission, should we choose to accept it, is to recognize and internalize our identity as beloved children of God and lead, follow or journey with others into this same realization. What follows is an engagement in the questionable practice of stringing scriptural verses together from various narratives in order to make a point.

Identity's Ethos: God is love and we are created in his image. God loves the entire planet (John 3.16) and we have the capacity to love because God first loved us (1 John 4.7ff). Because everyone is created in the image of God, everyone has this potential to love. Children of God are recognizable as those who act on this potential. Because love is critical to our true identity, it seems imperative to constantly remind ourselves of what love really is (see 1 Cor 13).

Identity's Intent: Jesus reveals the character and will of God (Col 1.15-20). He teaches that the whole of God's will is rooted in God's desire for us to love God with all of our heart, soul, mind and strength and to love our neighbors (and enemies) as ourselves (Mark 12.28ff, Matt 5.43ff).

Identity's Way: Jesus said, "I am the way and the truth and the life... If you love me, keep my commands... This is my command: Love each other" (John 14-15). Our identity is rooted in our connection to Jesus and our willingness to love as Jesus loves. He is the vine and we are the branches. Jesus is the provision and paradigm of God's love. The "I am" statement of Jesus roots God's love in his identity and our identity in his.

Identity's Relationships: We bind ourselves as family to God, Jesus and each other when we act on our potential to love (Mark 3.31ff). This love works in a web of relationships with God, with self with others and with creation. These relationships are inexorably bound together. If any link is weak, the other relationships will suffer.

Identity's Invitation: Jesus calls us to follow his pattern of loving other and calling others to love. We seek to be incarnational by being transformed into the likeness of Jesus (2 Cor 3.18); becoming Jesus for others and seeing Jesus in others (Matt 28.16ff). Our common journey towards transformation is meant to be shared.

We are the Beloved... embrace your Identity, be loved and be love!

The Current (09.06.10)

2010-09-06T22:49:00.000-07:00

In This Issue...

Calendar of Events

Common Meal
Kingdom Tide 'embrace' (Identity)

Community News

Feed Hope: A Volunteer Opportunity
City Scope Study & Tour

Article

Unpacking the Core Convictions (4)

Voice & Verse

Adolfo Pérez Esquivel
Isaiah 42.1-4

Common Meal

Date: Tuesday, September 7, 2010
Time: 6-8p
Location: the Gilster home (2442 S Duke)

Please join us for food and fellowship. Bring a dish to share. Place settings and drinks will be provided.

Kingdom Tide 'embrace'

Date: Sunday, September 12, 2010
Time: 5:30-7:30p
Location: Butler Church, Rms 17/18 (4884 E Butler Ave)

Please join us for an evening of 'embrace' as we participate together in a prayer labyrinth.

Childcare will be available.

Community News

Community Food Bank presents "Feed Hope: A Volunteer Opportunity
September 11, 2010, 7:00am-7:00pm.

Fresno, CA - Join the Community Food Bank and HandsOn Central California in a massive one-day distribution of food to the families of the Central Valley. They are looking for 600 volunteers to distribute food and meal boxes to thousands of hungry families. Volunteer shifts include 7a-11:30a, 11a-3:30p and 3p-7p. September is Hunger Action Month so join the cause and do your part to take action in the fight against hunger. To sign up, click here.

fiful presents "City Scope Study & Tour"
September 25, 2010, 9:00am-3:30 pm.

Fresno, CA - The day includes a bible study in the book of Jonah, a walking/driving tour of Fresno and lunch. For more information, click here.

Unpacking the Core Convictions (4)

In his book "The Naked Anabaptist", Stuart Murray lays out seven core convictions that he believes are "the bare essentials of a radical [Anabaptist] faith".

Developed in the late 1990's by the Anabaptist Network, these seven core convictions represent a provisional and ongoing dialog among people in Britain interested in "exploring the implications of Anabaptism for discipleship, mission and church life in contemporary culture".

This is the fourth in a series of articles based on these convictions. For previous articles, click (1), (2) or (3).

Unpacking the Core Convictions (4)
by Stuart Murray

The fourth conviction reads:

"The frequent association of the church with status, wealth and force is inappropriate for followers of Jesus and damages our witness. We are committed to exploring ways of being good news to the poor, powerless and persecuted."

The previous article in this series reflected on the implications for the church and its witness of the ‘Christendom’ system (where church and state shared power). Whatever the advantages of this system, the church underwent a startling transition during the fourth and fifth centuries. No longer a powerless, deviant, marginal community subject to intermittent persecution, the church through the following centuries accrued status, wealth and power as a central institution within European society.

Voice & Verse

My voice would like to have the strength of the voice of the humble and lowly. It is a voice that denounces injustice and proclaims hope in God and humanity. For this hope is the hope of all human beings who yearn to live in communion with all persons as their brother and sisters and as children of God.

- Adolfo Pérez Esquivel
from his Nobel Lecture

Here is my servant, whom I uphold, my chosen one in whom I delight; I will put my Spirit on him and he will bring justice to the nations.

He will not shout or cry out, or raise his voice in the streets. A bruised reed he will not break, and a smoldering wick he will not snuff out.

In faithfulness he will bring forth justice; he will not falter or be discouraged till he establishes justice on earth. In his law the islands will put their hope.

- Isaiah 42.1-4

The impact was evident in all kinds of ways. Bishops were wealthy and influential civil servants, with ceremonial robes that befitted their new status. Most church leaders came from the aristocracy and promoted the values of their class. Huge basilicas and cathedrals were designed to be awesomely impressive and were adorned at huge cost. The laity were disempowered as the clergy dominated liturgical spectacles and singing was prohibited except to trained choirs. The poor became increasingly alienated from the churches.

The institutional church could now impose its beliefs, values and morality through legislation rather than modelling and commending alternative possibilities. Dissidents could be punished by imprisonment, confiscation of property, torture and execution. And the church’s influence could be extended through conquest under the sign of the cross, through crusades and enforced baptisms. It was little comfort to the victims of this oppression that the state undertook the less pleasant activities at the behest of the church!

The demise of Christendom over recent centuries has pushed the church back onto the margins and gradually eroded its status, wealth and capacity to impose its will. This is a cause of celebration rather than regret, however we feel about diminished influence and shrinking congregations. In post-Christendom we have an opportunity to recover our calling to be good news to the poor, powerless and persecuted, to identify with those at the bottom of society rather than the top, to develop ‘trickle-up’ strategies, rather than ‘trickle-down’ approaches.

But the Christendom legacy lives on – in the church and in society. Despite its reduced size and influence, the church is still perceived by many as a reactionary institution that embodies and promotes establishment values – more concerned about social order than social justice. Many churches and denominations remain wealthy property-owners and are much stronger in affluent areas than poor communities. Although the church may no longer be able to coerce those with whom it disagrees, it still often speaks and acts as if it occupies the moral high ground and ought to be able to dictate to the rest of society. Many continue to promote top-down mission strategies (to engage with the ‘movers and shakers’). The strong impression is that the loss of status, wealth and the power to exercise control is a result of historical circumstances, not renunciation or repentance. We hanker after past power and glory rather than seizing the opportunity to relocate ourselves where we belong – in solidarity with the poor, powerless and persecuted.

The Anabaptist tradition, rejecting the Christendom system while it was still dominant and subjecting its values and priorities to rigorous scrutiny, has long challenged this prevailing and persistent misunderstanding of the church’s calling. As a movement of the poor and powerless in the sixteenth century, Anabaptism made common cause with the peasants of Central Europe, calling for social justice and economic reform. This economic radicalism provoked great fear in many places, including England, where the thirty-eighth of the Thirty Nine Articles of the Church of England (1571) countered this with the statement: ‘The riches and goods of Christians are not common, as touching the right, title, and possession of the same, as certain Anabaptists do falsely boast.’

Anabaptists were also deeply concerned about issues of coercion and marginalisation. Their own experience of powerlessness and persecution made them sensitive to other minorities; they not only denounced warfare, violence and coercion as unchristian but championed the cause of religious liberty for all – including Jews and Muslims.

Their approach to the Bible undergirded these convictions: their approach has been described as a ‘hermeneutic of justice’ rather than a ‘hermeneutic of order’. Rather than interpreting the Bible in ways that supported the wealthy and powerful and did not disturb the status quo, Anabaptists challenged conventional interpretations and advocated ways of following Jesus that prioritised the poor, powerless and persecuted. Their testimony and legacy can inspire and guide us as we struggle to divest ourselves of inappropriate assumptions, values and loyalties that damage our witness.

For many who are drawn to the Anabaptist vision, the so-called ‘Nazareth Manifesto’ (Luke 4:18-19) challenges us to a deeper identification with the mission priorities and values of Jesus:

‘The Spirit of the Lord is on me, because he has anointed me to preach good news to the poor. He has sent me to proclaim freedom for the prisoners and recovery of sight for the blind, to release the oppressed, to proclaim the year of the Lord’s favour.’

With Christians from many other traditions – most of us now on the margins of a post-Christendom culture – we hear the call of Jesus to explore new ways of identifying with others on the margins and being his faithful witnesses.

Stuart Murray Williams, editor of Anabaptism Today, lives in Oxford and works as a trainer and consultant under the auspices of the Anabaptist Network.

Kingdom Tide is an alternative, emerging, Anabaptist Christian faith community which meets regularly on the campus of Butler Church [4884 E Butler Avenue, Fresno, Californa].

Butler Church bulletin available

2010-09-02T17:50:00.000-07:00

For a preview of next Sunday's Butler Church bulletin (9/05), click here.

The following insert will also be included:

Come make a difference with Celebrate Recovery!

Children’s Program

Come join our team of children’s leaders. Curriculum is provided, training is available, and the kids are great! You can commit to once a month or more. The hope is to have enough volunteers to be able to give everyone a chance to participate in the adult program or have a week off.

Set-up and Clean-up

Many hands make for short work. This is a very practical yet powerful way you can help. Your help will free CR leaders to focus on other preparations for the night and connecting with participants.

Kitchen Team

Assistance in the kitchen is always welcome, especially if you can come early. The kitchen crew likes to get started by 4:30pm if possible.

Join the prayer team

Bathing this ministry in prayer is vital. Join the team and receive specific requests and direction for your prayers.

If you are willing to help in any of these areas, please contact Steve or Debbie W @ 274-7215.

Kingdom Tide

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Multifaith Exchange this Sunday (12/19)

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Kingdom Tide 'embrace' this Sunday (12/5)

Advent devotional available

Thinking about wealth

KT Thanksgiving gathering this weekend (11/28)

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The Current (10.28.10 mini)

The Current (Extra)

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The Current (10.20.10)

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Kingdom Tide 'think'

Common Meal

Community News

Recommended Reading

Voice & Verse

The Current (10.13.10)

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Kingdom Tide 'serve'

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The Current (10.06.10)

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Kingdom Tide 'experience'

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step into Africa: The AIDS Crisis

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The Current (09.29.10)

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Kingdom Tide 'embrace'

Butler Meal & More

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Unpacking the Core Convictions (7)

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A Call to Love Our Neighbor

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An Open Pastoral Letter to Anabaptist Churches from MCC U.S.

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Identity

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Common Meal

Kingdom Tide 'embrace'

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Unpacking the Core Convictions (4)

Voice & Verse

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