Using Our Big Faith Words
We believe in using the language of our faith, and that knowledge is power.
Calling (aka Vocation)
Each one of us is called to specific ministry in the church, and we are equipped by God for this work. This can be the work of the church, but it is also the work of every day: skills, talents, and occupations that provide our income and sustenance, but that we do to the glory of God. We can be called, at different times in our lives, to a variety of vocations: teaching, serving, feeding, coaching, accountancy, caretaking, administering, parenting, mentoring, companionship, etc. To be called is to hear and respond to the intersection “where your deep gladness meets the world’s deep hunger,” as theologian Frederick Buechner writes.
Discipleship
Disciples follow someone, with intention to learn and grow. In our case, we are disciples of Jesus Christ, and when we practice discipleship, we are practicing the intention of following Jesus. Not admiring, or congratulating, but following. It is a lifelong and life-changing practice. Anyone who sets out to follow Jesus is a disciple.
Faith Practice
The actions we take as disciples become actions of faith, or faith practices. These actions include prayer, worship, generosity, sabbath, fellowship, studying Scripture, working for justice and mercy, and much more. Some of us are drawn more, and fed more, by some practices but not others. That’s ok, but never settle for comfort alone. Note we are always practicing, not perfecting!
Formation
Faith Formation used to be known as Christian Education, and still is referred to by that name. However, “education” implies a sense of head-knowledge (facts, lessons, rules) and formation refers more to the ongoing, whole-life shaping that occurs when we continue to grow closer to God in our faith. We are continually formed, like clay, by the Holy Spirit to participate in God’s mission in this place.
Evangelism
Evangelism is telling and spreading the news, in this case, the Good News of Jesus Christ. An evangelist is therefore one who does the telling. We are all evangelists when we tell our stories and God’s stories—that’s sharing our witness. It is not limited to any one denomination, but is something in which we all may participate.
Reconciliation
Reconciliation is the restoration of all people to unity with God and each other in Christ. It is a central mission of our lives as Christians to participate in this work of reconciliation in the world. We do this through prayer, worship, proclamation of the Gospel, and the promotion of justice, peace, and love (BCP, p. 855).
Stewardship
To be a steward of something means that you take care of it. In this case, we practice stewardship of the church, both as the people of God who participate in God’s mission of reconciliation in our communities, but also as caretakers of our church and diocesan buildings, and the staff and resources needed to maintain this work.