Welcome to a new publication of the Ecclesia Network: Ecclesia Thinks & Links. What follows is a collection of some recent articles, blog posts and news from people within and outside the network. As I’ve been collecting links over the past few weeks, I was reminded that we have some amazing voices that are part of our community.
Of course, a disclaimer is necessary: While the articles below will be mostly written by Ecclesia pastors and leaders, not all of them will be (Those with an ** on articles written by people directly connected to Ecclesia). Obviously, there are some really helpful writers and thinkers outside of Ecclesia and we’re excited to highlight them too. Of course, nothing we link to below shows our complete endorsement of whatever is said in a post or whatever they have said elsewhere on their blog, on facebook, twitter or while they were talking on the phone last night – hopefully this goes without saying.
If you have read or have written articles or blog posts that you think could be included in upcoming issues of Ecclesia Thinks and Links, please forward them to Todd Hiestand (toddhiestand@ecclesianet.org)
Church Potluck or Catering Facility**
by J.R. Briggs
A great look at the nature of the church through the metaphor of church dinners by the pastor of the Renew Community in Lansdale, PA
Submissional Parenting: God’s Great Gift**
by Matt Tebbe
Matt reflects on how we are discipled through parenting.
Who Imitates You? 9 Ways to Invite Others In
by 3DM
A great list from 3DM in the UK about mentoring and discipling others.
Church Planter Spotlight: Aaron Graham**
by Aaron Graham on the Exponential Network Website
Get to know a bit more about Aaron, a pastor in Ecclesia, and his churches mission. Aaron was recently interviewed by the Exponential Network.
More Than a New Color
by Lance Ford
“Missional doesn’t visit the neighborhood. Missional moves into the neighborhood.” A great short reflection by Lance Ford.
The Scraments of Place**
by David Fitch
David Fitch, pastor at Life on the Vine, recently had this aritcle published on Christianity Today. Provacative as usual, he asks hard questions about being rooted locally.
Vocation and Healing**
by Winn Collier
Winn, pastor of All Souls Charlottesville, reflects on why he became a pastor and, more importantly, why he stays one.
Making Disciples**
by Ben Sternke
Ben, pastor at Christ Church in Fort Wayne, recently published a series of excellent posts on his philosophy and practice of discipleship. Very, very well worth sinking your teeth into!
Again, if you have any questions, please send them Todd’s way!