Ephesians 4:11-13 – The gifts he gave were that some would be apostles, some prophets, some evangelists, some pastors and teachers, to equip the saints for the work of ministry, for building up the body of Christ.

Once upon a time there was a place called Christendom and all the people were very happily a part of what they called the church, and everyone in the community…

It reads like a fairytale in today's world where your neighbour may be a Muslim and your boss a Buddhist and your hairdresser a Hindu, but this is now life in Canada and in many other countries. We call this a Pluralistic Society and one of the most difficult dilemmas of the day is how to "become credible agents of God's inclusive and reconciling love…"

Maybe we need to hear clearly our "chief end" as expressed in Living Faith:

"Christian belief brings new meaning into one's life, for life's true purpose is to glorify and to enjoy God."

Wouldn't we find it amazing to learn that our most authentic witness is in the joy of the Lord being seen by others to be our true strength?

Here in Salvador, Brazil, at the World Council of Churches' Conference on World Mission and Evangelism, it's time for another workshop – this one on "Equipping and Nurturing of Local Congregations" in culturally pluralistic societies. Pray for us.

Prayer: In the power of the Spirit, lead us to discern and celebrate the wondrous variety of expressions of the Christian faith and the unity that binds them together, in Jesus' name. Amen (WCC prayer, adapted).

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About the author:

Kenn Stright <kennethstright@yahoo.ca>
West Petpeswick, Nova Scotia, Canada
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