Re-thinking how we form faith
We know culture and society is constantly changing, raising many new questions, issues and pressures.
When we re-think faith formation, it’s not about a new program or theory. Instead it’s about incorporating ministry into our everyday lives through relationships.
That’s why the Grow Ministries team has been excited to have Rev Dr David and Gloria Anderson from Minneapolis in the US visit Australia. They are encouraging and inspiring the sharing of faith in congregations and in homes with us. David has written many books on the topic of partnering homes and congregations in faith formation. Co-director at Milestones Ministry, you may remember him from The Child In Our Hands Conference which toured Australia in 2003. Gloria is Milestones Ministry’s Faith Formation Specialist and is a retired school teacher with more than 30 years of experience.
Last month the Grow Ministries team, together with David and Gloria, led a Rethinking Faith Formation training day in Queensland. One of the participants registered for a half day as he was going home after lunch to watch the AFL grand final. However, once he had listened to the Andersons for the morning session, he changed his plans around to stay the rest of the day (including ‘shuffling’ three children while his wife was at work). It was that good!
What people said about Rethinking Faith Formation:
‘Just wanted to let you know I really enjoyed the workshop at Buderim on Saturday. Grow Ministries are a blessing and we are using a number of your resources at upcoming events at Grace Lutheran Church Redcliffe. You … are an inspiration to other families striving to grow faith at home.’
‘With the AFL grand final, my wife at work and juggling my three sons’ schedules, I had only planned to attend for half a day. But, after the first session … I was inspired and personally challenged … in thinking about my role as a parent to my sons, so I reprioritised my whole day to be able to stay and listen to David and Gloria speak about the importance and the simplicity of faith formation for our children. How could I ignore such a responsibility and a calling? I went home and pushed record – the grand final would have to wait!! It was a privilege to be able to participate in the day and share with others. This day is for everyone – parents, grandparents, aunties and uncles, youth ministry coaches and leaders, pastors … everyone!’
Chances to hear more
If you would like an opportunity to hear David and Gloria speak while they are in Australia, there are two opportunities to attend Rethinking Faith Formation conferences in SA and Victoria. Bring a team of lay leaders and parents with you!
- St Marks Lutheran Church, Mount Barker SA on Saturday 5 November 2016
- Good News Lutheran Church Tarneit (Wyndham-Hobsons Bay) on Saturday 3 December 2016
For registration details visit the Grow Ministries online store
Contact Grow Ministries
e: growministries@lca.org.au
p: 08 8267 7300
a: 197 Archer Street
North Adelaide SA 5006
More information: Grow Ministries website.
Jodi Brook is Director of Grow Ministries.
This feature story comes from The Lutheran November 2016. Visit the website to find out more about The Lutheran or to subscribe.
